All Gins are Definitely not Created Equal

August, 2011

Let's talk about gin. For some quick background, gin is essentially vodka that has additional aromatics introduced during the distillation process. In almost every gin on the market, at least one of these aromatics is juniper berries, which gives gin its unique aroma.

However, very rarely are juniper berries the only aromatic. Distillers use a variety of fruits, herbs, and spices to produce a spirit that is uniquely their own. From allspice to rose petals, nothing is off limits when it comes to gin. With this in mind, it is safe to say that every gin on the market is different.

This makes gin very unique in the world of spirits. Spirits like vodka, rum, and tequila can be divided into different classes based on type and quality, but when you get right down to it, vodka is vodka. You can expect to experience something new each time you try a different gin. Tanqueray Rangpur uses special rangpur limes – a hybrid between the mandarin orange and lemon – to add a citrus twist. Hendricks is, of course, famous for its cucumber and rose petal essences, while Bombay Sapphire is infused with 10 different botanicals.

With so much creativity going into the flavoring of gin, cocktail possibilities are endless. The classic martini will give you the chance to really enjoy the flavor profile that the distiller has created. Gin also works well with almost any fruit, so the delicious citrus and berries that are in season now are great starting places for a delicious gin-based cocktail.

One traditional gin cocktail that I am presently in love with is the Bramble. This drink calls for a berry syrup, which you can make by combining 1 part sugar and 1 part water in a saucepan and bringing it to a simmer. Add your favorite berries (I'm partial to raspberries and blueberries) and let it reduce by about a third. Strain into a clean bottle and keep in the fridge.

THE BRAMBLE
For the Bramble itself, take a rocks glass and fill it with crushed ice. Pour 1 1/2 oz gin, 1 oz fresh lime juice and 3/4 oz simple syrup in a shaker. Shake and strain over the crushed ice. Now the fun part, take your berry syrup and drizzle it over the crushed ice. It should float down slowly through the ice, producing a beautiful summer drink.

The Bramble is a perfect drink to mix with a variety of different gins. You may find that one gin makes a good Bramble while another gin makes a stellar one. I am currently partial to Bluecoat gin, which is an American dry gin made with distillates and organic aromatics that are produced exclusively in the United States. It has a very rich flavor with citrus notes that produce a delicious cocktail.

I encourage you to find a gin you love this summer. Try a few and find your favorite, there are definitely plenty to choose from.

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All Gins are Definitely not Created Equal

May