Story of Gin Through Time
Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round and raise a glass to the most divine of all spirits: gin. This liquid gold has been the drink of choice for kings, queens, and commoners for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. But where did this famous and popular gin alcohol come from and how did it become such a beloved beverage today? Sit back, pour yourself a generous serving, and let me regale you with gin’s colorful (and slightly boozy) history.
The History of Gin: A Boozy Timeline
Here’s a quick look at Gin’s journey through time:
The Early Days: It has a long and storied history, dating back to the Middle Ages. In those days, it was known as “genever” and was made from malt wine. It was popular in the Netherlands and Belgium, where it was used as a medicinal tonic and a way to fortify soldiers before battle.
The Gin Craze: Fast forward to the 18th century, and the drink had become all the rage in England. It was cheap and easily accessible, leading to a craze that saw people drinking it like water. This led to all sorts of social problems, including crime, and the government had to step in to try and regulate the production and sale of this popular drink. It got so bad that there were actual “Gin Acts” passed to try and curb the excess.
Gin’s Second Act: Despite the rocky start, it again bounced back and became a popular and respected drink. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the drink evolved to be made from a base of neutral spirits and became the sophisticated drink we know and love today. It’s no longer just for rough-and-tumble dock workers and back alley brawls but a refined and sophisticated option for the world’s discerning drinker.
What Makes Gin Special?
Gin is made from a base of neutral spirits that are then infused with a blend of botanical ingredients, including juniper berries, coriander, and angelica root. This unique blend of flavors gives the drink its distinct taste and aroma. This popular drink can range from light and floral to bold and juniper-forward, making it a versatile base for a wide variety of cocktails.
But it’s not just the taste that makes gin so special. It also has a reputation for being a bit of a “sipping” spirit, meaning that it’s often enjoyed neat or on the rocks rather than mixed into cocktails. This allows you to really appreciate the flavors and complexity of the drink. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good excuse to drink straight from the bottle?
Top 5 Gins to Try Out This Year
Here are the top 5 gin blends you must try this year:
- Martin Miller’s 14 Moons: It is made with a blend of 14 botanicals and is double-distilled for a smooth and refined flavor. It’s perfect for a classic gin and tonic or a martini.
- Kozue Japanese Craft Gin: It is made with a blend of traditional Japanese ingredients, including yuzu and sansho pepper, giving it a unique and aromatic flavor. It’s perfect for a refreshing Japanese-inspired cocktail.
- Bareksten Botanical Gin: This small-batch drink is made with a blend of aged botanicals, including meadowsweet and rowanberry, giving it a unique and complex flavor. It’s perfect for a Negroni.
- Gordon’s Premium Pink Gin: It is made with a blend of berries and botanicals, giving it a sweet and fruity flavor. It’s perfect for a refreshing spritz. Just don’t let the pretty pink color fool you, it still packs a punch.
- Edinburgh Gin: It is made with a blend of traditional and local botanicals, including heather and milk thistle, giving it a unique and floral flavor. It’s perfect for a gin and tonic or a martini.
Top 3 Most Famous Gin Cocktails to Try
Here are three of the most popular gin cocktails:
- With Martini: The classic cocktail with a martini is made with dry vermouth, shaken or stirred, and served with a twist of lemon or an olive. It’s the perfect balance of strength and sophistication.
- With Tonic: A simple but classic combination is made with tonic water, and a slice of lime. It’s the perfect refreshing summer drink.
- Negroni: This Italian cocktail is made with vermouth, and Campari and served over ice with an orange peel garnish. It’s a bold and bitter drink that is not for the faint of heart.
Ending Thoughts: Gin – From Ruins to Riches
Gin has come a long way from its humble start as a genever in the Netherlands. Today, it is enjoyed all over the world and has become a staple of the cocktail scene. Whether you prefer a light and floral drink or a bold and juniper-forward one, there’s a drink out there for everyone.
So next time you raise a glass of gin, take a moment to appreciate this amazing drink’s rich history and delicious complexity. Cheers!
Want to read more of our latest posts? Check out these New York dishes and drinks inspired by venues in the UK.
Andrew is the founder and CEO of StickerYou, a global, e-commerce leader in custom-printed, die-cut products that empowers consumers and businesses to create high-quality materials for personal expression, marketing, and packaging.
