The Essential Spirits

Origins

Called Genever by Dutch distillers, Gin was first used as a medicine for gall stones, gout, stomach ailments, and innumerous other applications. Gin exploded among England in the 1700's after a high tax on imports, combined with poor quality grains for beer, gin was the choice. To fight malaria it was often paired with quinine, which was disolved in carbonated water to form tonic water. Thus creating the famous gin and tonic.

Flavor Profiles

Gin's flavor is slightly reminiscent the wheat used in its production. But most of the flavor is derived from a combination of the herbal infusions. Much of these profiles are based on what is readily available in the area of consumption. The most important of these infusions is the piney flavored juniper berries that give Gin its trademark christmas flavor.

Learning More

Gin is a bit tougher to find a quality distillery in the United States. But because it is largely an infusion, one can create and experiment with custom infusions on their own. By adding juniper, all-spice, cinnamon, and much more, one can create a custom flavor that suits their desires. Gin is the original base spirit in a true martini, and makes cocktails that are refreshing yet surprisingly not indulgent. Next time you have the opportunity, ask your bartender to make you something special with Gin.