11 Classic Gin Cocktails That Should Be On Everyone's List Gin Cocktails, Classic Gin

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Table of Contents

• What is Gin?
• How is Gin Made?
• What are the Ingredients of Gin?
• What are the Different Types of Gin?
• What are Some Popular Gin Cocktails?

What is Gin?

Gin is a distilled alcoholic beverage that is made from juniper berries and other botanicals. It has a distinct flavor and aroma that sets it apart from other spirits, and it is commonly used as a base for cocktails.

There are many different types of gin, each with their own unique flavor profile. Some of the most popular types of gin include London Dry Gin, Old Tom Gin, and Plymouth Gin.

How is Gin Made?

The process of making gin starts with a base spirit, which can be made from a variety of different sources, such as grain, potatoes, or grapes. The base spirit is then distilled to remove impurities and create a neutral alcohol.

Once the base spirit has been distilled, it is then infused with a variety of botanicals, which can include juniper berries, coriander, angelica root, citrus peel, and many others. The specific combination of botanicals used will depend on the type of gin being made and the desired flavor profile.

After the botanicals have been added, the gin is redistilled to infuse the flavors and aromas of the botanicals into the alcohol. The resulting spirit is then bottled and ready for consumption.

What are the Ingredients of Gin?

The primary ingredient in gin is juniper berries, which give the spirit its distinctive flavor and aroma. In addition to juniper berries, gin can be made with a variety of other botanicals, including coriander, angelica root, citrus peel, orris root, and many others.

The specific combination of botanicals used in gin will depend on the type of gin being made and the desired flavor profile. Some gins may also include additional ingredients, such as spices or herbs, to further enhance the flavor.

What are the Different Types of Gin?

There are many different types of gin, each with their own unique flavor profile. Some of the most popular types of gin include:

• London Dry Gin: This is perhaps the most well-known type of gin, and it is characterized by its dry flavor profile and strong juniper taste.
• Old Tom Gin: This type of gin is slightly sweeter than London Dry Gin and is often used in classic cocktails like the Tom Collins.
• Plymouth Gin: This gin hails from the town of Plymouth in England and has a slightly sweeter flavor profile than London Dry Gin.
• Genever: This is a Dutch-style gin that is made with a malted grain base, giving it a slightly sweet and malty flavor.
• New Western Dry Gin: This is a newer style of gin that emphasizes the use of non-traditional botanicals, such as cucumber or elderflower, to create a more balanced and nuanced flavor profile.

What are Some Popular Gin Cocktails?

Gin is a popular base spirit for cocktails, and there are many classic and modern gin cocktails to choose from. Some of the most popular gin cocktails include:

• Gin and Tonic: This is perhaps the most classic gin cocktail, and it is made with gin, tonic water, and a squeeze of lime.
• Negroni: This Italian cocktail is made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, and it has a bitter and slightly sweet flavor profile.
• Tom Collins: This refreshing cocktail is made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water, and it is typically served over ice.
• French 75: This elegant cocktail is made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne, and it is a popular choice for celebrations.
• Martini: This classic cocktail is made with gin and dry vermouth, and it is typically garnished with a twist of lemon or an olive.

Conclusion

Gin is a versatile and flavorful spirit that has become a staple in many classic and modern cocktails. Whether you prefer a classic gin and tonic or a more complex gin cocktail, there is a type of gin and a recipe to suit your tastes. By understanding the ingredients and distillation process of gin, you can explore the many different types and flavors of this beloved spirit.