Understanding Artisanal Gin And Gin Botanicals
Have you come across the term - artisanal gin and wondered what it’s all about? Or are you a gin connoisseur looking for more information on gins? In that case, you have come to the right place. Many local distilleries craft this exquisite gin that is often infused with locally sourced ingredients. To know more about this fascinating spirit and making of gin, keep reading.
Guide To Understanding Artisanal Gins
What Are Artisanal Gins?
It is also known as craft gin. They are typically made in small batches. Recently, gin has turned into a canvas to showcase the art, creativity and expertise of many craftsmen. Artisanal gins are a product of such craftsmanship. Traditional distilling processes, meticulous attention to detail, and high-quality ingredients are the trademark of craft gins. Artisanal gins have a very nuanced flavour profile and are bursting with the richness of very carefully chosen gin botanicals. If you are a cocktail enthusiast, you will surely fall in love with the impeccable characteristics and taste of these gins.
Local Distilleries And Craft Gin Distillation
What makes these artisanal gins unique is that they are often made in local distilleries that take inspiration from their surrounding environments. It’s not just that, these local distilleries also make use of the ingredients that are native to the region in making gin, which infuses the spirit with a distinctive flavour profile.
A Brief Guide Into Various Gin Botanicals
Craft gins are known for their unique gin botanicals. Since these are locally sourced, it creates a delectable character that offers an unforgettable sensory experience. Here are a few gin botanicals that are commonly used in artisanal gins:
1. Juniper Berries
This is one of the main gin botanicals that’s used in making gins. They offer a distinct piney flavour and aroma to the spirit.
2. Coriander Seeds
Another key ingredient found in many artisanal gins. It offers a subtle hint of citrus and spicy notes to the gin’s flavour profile.
3. Angelica Root
It helps in binding other ingredients together. This gin botanical brings an earthy and herbaceous flavour to the gin.
4. Citrus Peel
A number of citrus peels can be used in gin. For example lemon, orange, grapefruit etc. These enhance the citrus character of the gin adding a fresh and bright flavour to the overall character.
5. Other Gin Botanicals
Apart from the most widely used, there are a few unconventional botanicals that are used in making gin such as lavender, elderflower, chamomile, seaweed, assortment of spices, etc.
Artisanal Gin Distillation & Types - A Brief Guide
Interested in understanding the artisanal gin distillation process? Well, gin distillation is an extensive process. Every distillery has its own way of making gin. However, the core method remains the same. Here’s your brief guide:
1. The first step is to create a fermented alcohol base, made from chosen grains, water, and yeast. It is then distilled to remove impurities and purify the alcohol content.
2. The resulting raw spirit is then infused with a range of gin botanicals such as juniper berries, angelica roots, citrus, coriander seeds, etc.
There are different types of artisanal gins available in the market. These vary based on the type of ingredients used, the distillation process and the origin.
The Perfect Gin Cocktail
Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe
When you think of gin, the classic and most-loved cocktail, Gin and Tonic is usually the first thing that comes to mind. The crispiness of the tonic water seamlessly blends with the rich botanicals of gin, creating a gin cocktail that’s been a crowd favourite for decades. It’s super easy to mix, perfect for any occasion and tastes absolutely delectable! Artisanal gins make the perfect ingredient for this drink. Here’s the gin cocktail recipe for you:
Ingredients
- Tanqueray 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
Artisanal gin offers a sensory experience like no other. Unique gin botanicals, traditional gin distillation method and a nuanced character profile make a perfect base for a range of gin cocktails.
