The Fundamentals of Gin!
Have you ever wondered what gives Gin its unique taste and flavor profile that is pretty much unique to itself? Wonder no more…let’s break down the simple fundamentals of Gin!
Traditionally, gin was made by distilling fermented grain mash and then infusing it with juniper berries, which gives gin its unique flavor. There are many different kinds of gin on the market today, but most are still made in the same way.
Distilling a neutral spirit, which is usually made from a grain like wheat or barley, is the first step in making gin. This spirit is distilled to a high proof to remove impurities and make a clean base for the gin. The neutral spirit is then mixed with a blend of botanicals, which can include juniper berries, coriander, angelica root, citrus peel, and other herbs and spices.
In a pot still or column still, the botanicals are added to the neutral spirit, and the mixture is heated to a temperature that will make the alcohol and botanicals evaporate. As the mixture heats up, the alcohol vapor rises and passes through a series of plates or a condenser, where it is cooled and turned back into a liquid. This liquid is the gin!
After the gin is distilled, it is usually mixed with water to make it the strength and proof that is wanted. Some gins are also aged in oak barrels to make the flavor more complex and rich.
Juniper berries are one of the most important plants used to make gin. Juniper berries are the main thing that give gin its distinctive piney flavor. The other botanicals are chosen to complement the juniper and make the flavor profile more balanced. Different types and brands of gin may use different blends of botanicals to make their own unique flavors.
Gin is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed on its own, in classic cocktails like the Gin and Tonic or a Martini, or in newer, more creative cocktails. There is a gin for everyone, whether you like traditional London Dry Gin or something more modern, so come on in and check out our huge Gin selection at Boone’s!
