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There’s nothing like finding your new favourite cocktail to make at home so why not refresh yourself, with something new.
Cocktails are mixed drinks typically made from a combination of spirits, mixers, and various flavoring ingredients like fruits, herbs, syrups, or bitters. They can be served in various styles, from shaken or stirred to blended, and often feature garnishes such as citrus slices, cherries, or herbs. Cocktails are popular in social settings and can range from refreshing and light to bold and complex, offering something for every taste.
The History of gin
Early Origins:
Gin’s roots can be traced to the 11th century in Europe, when monks and alchemists distilled juniper berries for medicinal purposes. The key ingredient, juniper, was believed to have healing properties, especially for ailments like indigestion and kidney problems.
The Birth of Gin (16th Century):
The spirit we recognize today as gin was developed in the Netherlands in the 16th century. Dutch physician Fransiscus Sylvius is often credited with creating a drink called “genever” (Dutch for “juniper”), which was a juniper-flavored spirit distilled from malt wine. Geneva was both medicinal and recreational and gained popularity in the Netherlands.
Gin’s Evolution in England (17th Century)
Gin’s true rise in popularity occurred in England during the 17th century. In the early 1600s, English distillers began to experiment with distilling jenever, adapting the process and recipe to create a spirit distinct from its Dutch predecessor. This led to the creation of gin as we know it today.
A pivotal moment came in 1689 when William of Orange ascended the British throne. He brought with him an affinity for jenever, which contributed to the widespread popularity of gin in England. The British demand for gin soared, especially after the Gin Act of 1736, which aimed to curb the gin craze. However, it led to more illegal production, and gin became associated with social problems and the working class.
The Gin Craze (18th Century)
The first half of the 18th century is known as the Gin Craze. Gin was cheap and easily available, and its consumption skyrocketed, particularly in London. The “mother’s ruin” moniker emerged during this period, as gin was often blamed for widespread public drunkenness and the decline of social order. In response, the government enacted strict regulations, including the Gin Acts, to control production and consumption.
Despite this, gin continued to evolve. In the late 18th century, the invention of the still allowed for more refined distillation techniques, leading to the creation of smoother, higher-quality gin.
The Birth of London Dry Gin (19th Century)
In the 19th century, gin underwent further refinement, and one of the most important developments was the creation of London Dry Gin, which emerged in the early 1800s. This style of gin is characterized by its dry, crisp taste, with juniper as the dominant flavor. It’s distilled with natural botanicals (herbs, spices, citrus) and is typically not sweetened after distillation, distinguishing it from older, sweeter gins.
A significant milestone in this period was the invention of the Gin and Tonic in the early 19th century, linked to British colonial rule in India. British soldiers in India mixed gin with quinine (used to prevent malaria) and soda water, leading to the popularization of the drink as a refreshing tonic.
20th Century: Prohibition, Global Expansion, and Craft Gin Revolution
By the early 20th century, gin was firmly established worldwide. During Prohibition in the United States (1920–1933), gin became notorious for being easily produced in illegal “bathtubs,” leading to a rise in low-quality, homemade versions. After Prohibition ended, gin regained popularity, particularly in classic cocktails like the Martini, Negroni, and Tom Collins.
Today
Gin is now one of the most popular spirits in the world, celebrated for its versatility in cocktails, its wide range of flavors, and its association with luxury and sophistication. The global gin market continues to expand, with countless varieties and brands catering to diverse tastes.
Gin’s rich history—from its medicinal origins to its role in shaping cocktail culture—illustrates how the spirit has evolved to become a staple of the modern drinking experience.