Our Gin Selection

Browse our selection of Gins

Gin

Gin is distilled from grain. Unflavoured gin typically has a dry flavour with hints of juniper, citrus, or even malt wine, depending on how it was made. Many gins may also taste slightly sweet and can be flavoured with a range of different spices or fruits. Like vodka, gin usually isn't aged. 

Gin is a fascinating and versatile spirit with a rich history and a distinctive flavour profile. Here are some key points about gin:

Origin and History

• Origins: Gin originated as a medicinal liquor made by monks and alchemists across Europe, particularly in the Netherlands and Belgium, where it was known as jenever.
• Popularity in England: Gin became extremely popular in England after the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and the subsequent import restrictions on French brandy. This period, known as the “Gin Craze” saw gin become the national drink of England, particularly within the working classes.  Distilleries started to produce cheap versions to satisfy demand and allow more people to access it and it became known as “mothers ruin”.

Production

• Ingredients: The primary ingredient in gin is juniper berries, which give it its distinctive flavour. Other botanicals such as coriander, citrus peels, and various herbs and spices are also used.
• Distillation: Gin is typically distilled from a base of grains like barley, corn, rye, or wheat. The botanicals are added during the distillation process to infuse the spirit with their flavours.

Types of Gin

• London Dry Gin: This is the most common type of gin, known for its strong juniper flavour and dry profile.
• Plymouth Gin: A slightly sweeter and more earthy gin, which can only be produced in Plymouth, England.
• Old Tom Gin: A sweeter style of gin that was popular in the 18th century and is making a comeback.
• New Western or Contemporary Gin: These gins emphasize other botanicals alongside or instead of juniper, offering a wide range of flavours.

Popular Uses

• Cocktails: Gin is a key ingredient in many classic cocktails, such as the Martini, Negroni, and Gin & Tonic.
• Liqueurs: Gin can also be used to make flavoured liqueurs, such as sloe gin, which is made by infusing gin with sloe berries and sugar.

Gin and Tonic

Tonic, particularly tonic water, is a carbonated soft drink that has a unique history and a distinctive bitter flavour. Here are some key points about tonic water:

History and Origin

• British Colonial India: Tonic water was originally developed as a medicinal drink.  It contains quinine, which was used to prevent and treat malaria. British officials in colonial India mixed quinine with soda and sugar to make it more palatable, leading to the creation of tonic water, specifically Indian Tonic Water.

If we are showing as Out of Stock please check out our sister shop:

www.spiritwarehouse.co.uk