Classic Gin Cocktails And The Artistry Behind Gin Distillation
Do you love gin and would like to know more about how it’s made and all the botanical that goes into it? Then you have come to the right place! We are going to give you a brief rundown on the gin distillation process and explore some of the classic gin cocktails that are a total crowd-favourite!
You could be a gin connoisseur or maybe just starting your cocktail journey, this article will surely be helpful to you!
Exploring Gin Distillation And Some Classic Gin Cocktails
How Is Gin Made?
The gin distillation is a meticulous process that involves transforming neutral alcohol into an aromatic botanical spirit that we know as gin. There are a few ways through which botanicals are infused into gin. The most commonly used process is where the neutral alcoholic spirit is soaked in the botanicals and then they go through a careful distillation process. Another gin distillation technique is by letting the alcohol vapour pass through the chosen botanicals to infuse the flavours and aroma.
Everything You Need To Know About Gin Botanicals
Various botanicals are used in making gin. These botanicals infuse gin with their unique essence and aroma. Here are a few widely used ones:
1. Juniper Berries: These are the cornerstone of gin distillation. They infuse gin with their signature piney and resinous flavour.
2. Citrus Peel: Orange and lemon peels are used in the making of gin. The zesty notes of citrus beautifully complement the juniper imparting bright and fresh flavours.
3. Coriander Seeds: They balance the flavour and add a subtle spicy kick to the taste of the gin.
4. Angelica Root: Known for its earthy and herbal qualities, it’s like a binding agent that brings various botanicals together and enhances the overall structure of the gin.
5. Orris Root: It brings in a floral essence with its violet-like notes. It helps in preserving the aromatic compounds of other botanicals.
6. Extras: Many distillers experiment with a variety of other botanicals to create unique and unexpected combinations.
Different Styles Of Gin
Now that you have a brief idea about gin distillation, here are a few styles of gin that are available in the market:
1. London Dry Gin
2. Old Tom Gin
3. New Western Dry Gin
4. Plymouth Gin
5. Aged Gin
6. Sloe Gin
Classic Gin Cocktails Everyone Must Know
Here are a few classic gin cocktails that you can easily mix at home. These simple and delectable cocktails are perfect for any occasion.
1. Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe
This classic gin cocktail is super delightful and extremely easy to make. The crispiness of the tonic water seamlessly blends with the botanical essence of gin. Loved by many gin connoisseurs over the years, this timeless gin cocktail is a must-try! Here’s the cocktail recipe for you to mix this cocktail at home:
Ingredients
- Tanqueray No 10 Gin- 60ml
- Tonic Water - 120ml
- Lime Wheel/Grapefruit slice - 1
- Ice
Method
- Grab a highball glass and fill it with ice
- Next, measure and pour gin into the glass over the ice
- Top up with tonic water
- Stir the mixture gently to combine
- Garnish with a lime wheel or grapefruit slice
2. Martini Cocktail Recipe
This iconic gin cocktail has been a staple across many bars and restaurants worldwide. There have been numerous variations and delightful twists to the classic. Martini cocktail is made with gin, vermouth with a dash of bitters and boasts clean and crisp flavours. Here’s the cocktail recipe for you to mix this cocktail at home:
Ingredients
- Tanqueray London Dry Gin - 75ml
- Dry Vermouth - 15ml
- Orange Bitters - 1 dash
- Olive - 2
- Ice
Method
- Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice
- Measure and pour 75ml of Tanqueray London Dry gin, and vermouth into a shaker
- Shake vigorously to combine
- Using a cocktail strainer, strain into a chilled Martini glass
- Thread two olives into a skewer and place them in the drink to garnish
Well, to sum up, we would like to say that gin distillation process is a true art form that requires extensive skill, and understanding of botanical ingredients. We hope this article gave you a brief understanding of how gin is crafted and the different botanicals that go into it. Try these easy-to-mix gin cocktails at home to truly appreciate the nuanced and aromatic flavour profile of the gin.
