Gin
Gin is a distilled alcoholic beverage that is primarily known for its distinctive flavor, which is characterized by the presence of juniper berries and a complex blend of botanicals. It has a rich history and is widely appreciated for its versatility in cocktails and as a standalone spirit. Here are some key characteristics and information about gin:
1. Distillation and Botanicals:
- Base Alcohol: Gin is typically made from a neutral grain spirit, although it can also be produced from other raw materials like molasses or grapes.
- Botanicals: The defining characteristic of gin is the use of botanicals, which are aromatic herbs, spices, and other natural ingredients. The most prominent botanical in gin is juniper berries, which give the spirit its distinctive piney and resinous flavor. In addition to juniper, a wide variety of botanicals may be used, including coriander, citrus peel, cardamom, cinnamon, angelica root, orris root, and many others. These botanicals contribute to the complexity and uniqueness of each gin brand.
2. Types of Gin:
- London Dry Gin: This is the most widely recognized and traditional style of gin. It is known for its dry and crisp flavor profile. Despite the name, it does not have to be made in London but must adhere to specific production standards and regulations.
- Plymouth Gin: Produced in the city of Plymouth, England, this gin has a slightly different flavor profile compared to London Dry Gin, with a somewhat earthier and less dry taste.
- Old Tom Gin: This historical style of gin is slightly sweeter than London Dry and often used in classic cocktails like the Tom Collins and Martinez.
- Genever or Dutch Gin: Originating in the Netherlands, genever has a maltier and more pronounced grain flavor compared to other types of gin. It's considered a precursor to modern gin.
- New American or Craft Gins: These gins are produced by smaller distilleries and often feature unique botanical combinations and flavor profiles.
3. Flavor Profile: The flavor of gin can vary widely based on the choice of botanicals and the distillation process. It can range from dry and herbal to citrusy and spicy, depending on the brand and style.
4. Cocktails: Gin is a key ingredient in numerous classic cocktails, including the Martini, Gin and Tonic, Negroni, Tom Collins, and many more. Its versatility in mixology makes it a popular choice for crafting a wide range of drinks.
5. Alcohol Content: Gin typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) content ranging from 40% to 47% or higher, depending on the brand and style.
6. Serving and Garnish: Gin is often served in various ways, including neat, on the rocks, or mixed in cocktails. Common garnishes include citrus slices or twists, olives, and aromatic herbs like rosemary or thyme.
7. Global Production: Gin is produced in many countries around the world, with England, the United States, Spain, and the Netherlands being significant producers.
8. Gin Distillation: The process of making gin involves steeping the botanicals in the base alcohol and then distilling the mixture to capture the desired flavors and aromas. Some gins are distilled multiple times for greater purity and refinement.
In summary, gin is a versatile and complex spirit known for its distinct flavor profile derived from botanicals, particularly juniper berries. It is appreciated for its role in classic cocktails and offers a wide range of flavor variations, making it a beloved choice for cocktail enthusiasts and spirit connoisseurs alike.
Subtypes
Used in 53 drinks:
Alabama Slammer
Sloe Gin, Southern Comfort, Amaretto, Orange Juice
Alexander
Gin, Cream, Creme De Cacao
Angel Face
Calvados, Gin, Apricot Brandy
Apple Business
Gin, Apple Juice, Lime Juice, Honey
Aviation
Gin, Lemon Juice, Creme De Violette, Maraschino Liqueur
Basil Gimlet
Basil Leaves, Gin, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Club Soda
Bee's Knees
Gin, Lemon Juice, Honey Syrup
Bijou
Gin, Green Chartreuse, Orange Bitters, Sweet Vermouth
Blue Alexander
Gin, Blue Curaçao, Cream
Bramble
Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Creme De Mure
Casino
Gin, Lemon Juice, Maraschino Liqueur, Orange Bitters
Chauncey
Cognac, Gin, Rye Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, Orange Bitters
Cloister
Gin, Yellow Chartreuse, Grapefruit Juice, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup
Clover Club
Dry Vermouth, Egg White, Gin, Lemon Juice, Raspberry Syrup
Coffee Alexander
Gin, Coffee Liqueur, Cream
Corpse Reviver #2
Absinthe, Cointreau, Gin, Lemon Juice, Lillet Blanc
Dry Martini
Dry Vermouth, Gin
Floradora
Raspberry Gin, Rose Water, Lime Juice, Ginger Ale
French 75
Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Champagne
French Gimlet
Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, Lime Juice
Gimlet
Gin, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup
Gin Fizz
Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Club Soda
Gin Gin Mule
Mint Leaves, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Gin, Ginger Beer
Gin Sour
Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Egg White
Gin & Tonic
Gin, Tonic Water
Greyhound
Gin, Grapefruit Juice, Simple Syrup
Hanky Panky
Fernet-Branca, Gin, Sweet Vermouth
John Collins
Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Club Soda
Last Word
Gin, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino Liqueur, Lime Juice
Long Island Iced Tea #1
Tequila, Vodka, White Rum, Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Cola, Triple Sec
Long Island Iced Tea #2
Vodka, Gin, Tequila, White Rum, Triple Sec, Lemon-Lime Soda, Grenadine
Mandalorian
Gin, Triple Sec, Lychee Juice, Black Cherry Syrup, Luster Dust, Melon Liqueur, Lime Juice
Martinez
Gin, Maraschino Liqueur, Orange Bitters, Sweet Vermouth
Master Yoda
Cucumber, Green Tea Syrup, Lime Juice, Lemon Juice, Gin
Monkey Gland
Gin, Grenadine, Orange Juice, Absinthe
Negroni
Gin, Sweet Vermouth, Campari
Obituary
Gin, Dry Vermouth, Absinthe
Pancho Villa
Aged Rum, Gin, Maraschino Liqueur, Pineapple Juice, Lime Juice, Club Soda, Apricot Brandy
Paradise
Gin, Orange Juice, Apricot Brandy
Pink Lady
Egg White, Cream, Grenadine, Gin
Poinsettia Pomegranate Martini
Pomegranate Juice, Gin, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup
Ramos Fizz
Gin, Lime Juice, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Cream, Egg White, Orange Flower Water, Vanilla Extract, Club Soda
Royal Hawaiian
Dry Gin, Pineapple Juice, Lemon Juice, Orgeat Syrup
Salty Dog
Gin, Grapefruit Juice, Simple Syrup, Lime Juice
Singapore Sling
Gin, Maraschino Liqueur, Cointreau, Benedictine, Grenadine, Pineapple Juice, Lime Juice, Angostura Bitters, Club Soda
Southside
Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Mint Leaves, Egg White
Southside Fizz
Mint Leaves, Gin, Lemon Juice, Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Club Soda
Suffering Bastard
Angostura Bitters, Gin, Lime Juice, Brandy, Ginger Beer
Thunderbird
Gin, Maraschino Liqueur, Orange Juice, Lemon Juice, Cream, Simple Syrup, Sugar, Club Soda
Tuxedo
Absinthe, Dry Vermouth, Gin, Maraschino Liqueur, Orange Bitters
Underdog
Drambuie, Amaro, Dry Vermouth, Dry Gin
Vesper
Gin, Vodka, Lillet Blanc
White Lady
Gin, Lemon Juice, Triple Sec