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Everything You Need to Know About Gin

Gin, which is currently experiencing its second golden age, is one of the most magnificent and versatile spirits. Its simple production technique and the variety of ingredients that can be used open up a world of endless possibilities for both old and new distilleries. The demand for gin increases year by year, as does the popularity of this pleasantly juniper-flavored drink.

The Herbs of Gin: Flavors, Aromas, Tastes

Gins appear in a variety of flavors. The traditional plant of gins is juniper, which has a distinctively bittersweet pine-lavender flavor, and the law also requires that every gin must contain this ingredient. Coriander seeds and angelica root are also common “guests” in gins, as is a specific group of citrus fruits. Naturally, a wide variety of plants and herbs (cardamom, elderflower, licorice, cinnamon, etc.) can also enrich the wide selection of gins.

The most common types of gin

1. Jenever

The Dutch jenever (or genever) is considered the predecessor of gin, which was made at least partially from malted barley (later also from other malted grains) and flavored with juniper. Its name is derived from the Latin name for juniper (juniperus communis), which evolved into the word gin in England. Its invention is mostly attributed to the Dutch chemist and alchemist Sylvius de Bouve, who led to this drink being sold as a medicine from the 16th century.

2. London Dry

In the case of London Dry gin, the distillate after the first distillation must have a minimum alcohol content of 70% ABV. Furthermore, the sugar content in 1 liter of the final product can be a maximum of 1g (hence the term "dry"). Finally, apart from water, it must not contain any added ingredients or colorings.

3. Old Tom gin

This falls between the jenever and the London Dry gin types in gin history. Previously, a lot of sugar was used in its production, but nowadays this category is also regulated and exists in high quality. Traditionally, a black cat often appears on its packaging.

4. Gin liqueurs

Although they cannot be called gin due to their low alcohol and high sugar content, we cannot ignore gin-based liqueurs. In these cases, the prepared gin is further flavored with spices, fruits, and then sweetened. This is a particularly versatile category, excellent neat, on ice, in long drinks, and other cocktails due to their intensity.

Gin Citadelle (0.7 l, 44%)

Citadelle gin is produced by Maison Ferrand, known for its high-quality cognacs and rums, using their own Charentaise stills typically used for cognac distillation. This excellent gin contains 19 herbs and spices, featuring ingredients such as savory, fennel, and violet, among others.

Gin Citadelle Jardin D’Été (0.7 l, 44%)

This gin is infused with 22 different botanicals, which are then distilled. Compared to the regular Citadelle, the goal was to create an even fruitier flavor with refreshing notes of melon, lemon, and orange. This is also reflected in the gin's name: jardin d'été, meaning summer garden.

Gin Bobby's (0.7 l, 42%)

Jacobus “Bobby” Alfons, originally from Indonesia, emigrated to the Netherlands in 1950, where he created his own gin recipe flavored with Indonesian spices known from home. In addition to the usual gin spices, Bobby’s gin is made even more distinctive by Indian lemongrass, cloves, cubeb pepper, and cinnamon.