In the world of spirits, few have a history as rich and intriguing as gin. With roots dating back centuries, this beloved drink has a story worth telling. But, what exactly is Gin? Much like vodka, gin is a spirit made from grains like rye, barley, wheat, or corn. However, gin takes a flavourful twist. Distillers add a mix of aromatic botanicals before giving it another round in the still. This infusion sets gin apart, giving it a distinct character compared to vodka’s more straightforward taste.
The name ‘gin’ comes from the Dutch word ‘genever,’ which means juniper—a key ingredient that gives gin its unique flavor. But it’s not just juniper calling the shots here. It’s the blend of different botanicals and the careful distilling process that gives us the wide range of gins we enjoy today.
Gin’s versatility lets each distiller add their own unique twist, like a chef crafting a signature dish. They blend botanicals and spices like nutmeg, coriander, citrus peel, cardamom, cinnamon, and almond to create a delicious mix of flavors. A great gin usually has a balanced blend of six to ten botanicals, making for a tasty and exciting sensory experience.
From the timeless Gimlet to modern delights like the El Chapo and Gin Sour, gin continues to captivate with its versatility and flavor, taking center stage in the world of cocktails.
Indian restaurateurs and bartenders too have jumped on the global gin bandwagon, crafting unique gin programs to proudly showcase the diverse flavors gin has to offer. With creativity as their secret ingredient, they’re raising the bar and redefining the gin-drinking experience across the country.
Identifying and evaluating Gin profiles:
So, when you’re faced with a wide array of options, don’t fret. Your senses are your best allies when it comes to discovering what’s inside. Start by giving the bottle a once-over. Check out its clarity and colour, from crystal clear to warm golden tones (thanks to those wooden barrels).
Next, focus on the aroma. Bring the glass to your nose and take a deep breath, letting the botanicals work their magic. Traditional gins, like London Dry, will hit you with that unmistakable juniper scent, along with hints of citrus, angelica root, and coriander. These gins usually boast a balanced, dry profile, perfect for all sorts of cocktails, whether shaken or stirred.
For a mellower alternative, explore Plymouth Gin, produced exclusively in the South of England. Plymouth Gin is less juniper-forward than London Dry, offering a silky and subtle Martini experience with earthy spice notes and light salinity.
Old Tom Gin, an older style of gin, presents a unique flavour profile with a rich, malty mouthfeel and a distinct citrusy sweetness. Often aged in barrels, it lends itself well to shaken cocktails like the classic Tom Collins and can hold its own in stirred cocktails like the classic Martinez.
For a taste of gin’s historical roots, explore Genever. As the precursor to modern gin, Genever originated in sixteenth-century Holland. It boasts a savoury, earthy, and malty flavour, thanks to distillation from malt wine spirits rather than neutral grain spirits. Genever is an excellent choice for a Gin Old Fashioned or any cocktail containing sweet vermouth.
The gin world is experiencing a revolution with new expressions emerging globally. Producers from Spain to Japan and Brazil to the United States are crafting gins that reflect local botanicals and flavours. These international gins offer unique and adventurous profiles. Start with a classic Martini to appreciate their distinctiveness, then try more complex cocktails like the Negroni.
While exploring different gin profiles, remember to pay attention to the intensity of flavours, texture, and overall harmony. A well-crafted gin should exhibit balance, with a harmonious blend of botanicals where no single element overpowers the others. Look for a smooth mouthfeel and a lingering finish, indicating complexity and depth that evolve with each sip.
This article is written by Cedrik Rodrigues, Beverage Manager, Hitchki Resto Bar.