What exactly is gin?
Gin is a popular spirit that is primarily known for their characteristic taste of juniper berries. These berries are the heart and ensure the distinctive, slightly resinous taste. In addition to juniper, many other vegetable ingredients, so -called botanicals, are also used. This can be herbs, spices, fruits or flowers that give the gin additional flavors. Common botanicals include coriander, citrus shells, cinnamon or floral notes such as lavender.
The manufacturing process is usually distillation. Neutral alcohol, which is often obtained from grain, is heated together with the botanicals in a copper kettle. The flavors of the plants take on the desired shape and connect to alcohol.
There are different types of gin that differ in taste and manufacturing processes. The best known variety is the London Dry, which has a clear juniper note and is made without added sugar. Another variant is the Old Tom, which is a bit sweeter, or the sloe, which is refined with slice berries and therefore tastes more fruity.
How do you drink gin best?
Gin is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many different ways. There is no fixed rule on how to drink gin, but there are some methods that best bring out the taste.
Pure
One of the simplest and most authentic types of drinking gin is pure. So you can perceive the unique flavors of the gin without distraction. Particularly high -quality gins offer a variety of flavors that develop when drinking - from fresh citrus notes to complex herbal and spice notes. If you want to experience the full taste, you should drink gin at room temperature and take the time to consciously enjoy it.
On ice
Gin on ice is another popular way to enjoy the drink. The ice cools the gin and diluted it easily, which tastes less intense and the flavors become a little softer and more accessible. This method is well suited for gins with a more complex taste profile, since the flavors can develop better.
With tonic
Gin & Tonic is the classic gin cocktail and very popular worldwide. The mixture of gin and tonic water ensures a refreshing, slightly bitter and at the same time sparkling experience. The tonic water underlines the citrus and herbal notes of the gin, which is particularly good for gins with floral or fruity flavors. Even if this is the most common way to drink gin, you can experiment with different tonic water varieties and sets (such as lime, lemon or herbs) in order to achieve different taste experiences.
In cocktails
Gin is ideal as the basis for numerous cocktails. Its versatility makes him the ideal ingredient for classic cocktails such as Negroni or Martini, but also for modern creations. Gin complements a wide range of ingredients with his flavors and offers numerous options for variation. An important aspect is the choice of gin, since it significantly influences the character of the cocktail.
With fruits and herbs
Many gin lovers add more ingredients to the drink to intensify the aroma. Especially in combination with fresh fruits (we recommend Goldberg Secret Garden) or herbs, the taste of the gin comes into its own. Lemon or cucumber slices, rosemary or thyme can enrich the gin in terms of taste and lead to a particularly refreshing enjoyment experience. Such variations are also ideal as an aperitif.
The choice of glass
The glass in which gin is served can also affect the taste experience. A glass with a large volume, e.g. B. a balloon glass, offers enough space for ice cream and lets the gin breathe so that the flavors can develop better. A classic one is suitable for mixed drinks such as gin & tonic Highball glass.