Do you love Gin?!
Craft gin is used to describe gin produced in small batches by independent, artisanal distillers. This gin is made using traditional methods and is often infused with unique and locally-sourced botanicals, resulting in a distinct and complex flavour profile.
The history of gin can be traced back to the Middle Ages when it was used as a medicinal tonic. However, in the 17th century, gin began to be produced on a large scale and became a popular spirit in England. The gin craze of the 18th century saw the rise of mass-produced gin, which was often of poor quality and led to societal problems such as alcoholism.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in craft gin as consumers seek unique and authentic experiences. Distillers are now using locally-sourced botanicals, such as juniper berries and elderflowers, to create gins with a sense of place and character. Some craft gin distillers even use foraged ingredients, such as wild heather or nettles, to give their gin a unique flavour.
The production process for craft gin is often more labour-intensive and time-consuming than mass-produced gin. Distillers use traditional copper pot stills, heated by an open flame, to slowly and carefully extract the flavours from the botanicals. This process results in a gin that is smooth and well-balanced, with a distinct and complex flavour profile.
One of the benefits of craft gin is the ability of the distiller to experiment and try new things. This leads to a wide variety of gin styles, from the classic London Dry style to more contemporary styles such as New Western Dry. This allows consumers to try a variety of gins and discover new and exciting flavour profiles.
When pairing craft gin with food, there are a few things to remember. The juniper berry is the backbone of gin, and it pairs well with savoury dishes such as charcuterie and cheese. The floral notes in gin also complement fish and seafood dishes, while the citrus notes in gin can be used to balance out rich and spicy dishes.
The traditional method of serving craft gin is to serve it with tonic water and a garnish of lemon or lime. However, many craft gin distillers recommend trying their gin neat or with just a splash of water to fully appreciate the complexity of the flavours.
In recent years, craft gin has seen a significant increase in popularity, with more independent distillers entering the market. This has led to a greater variety of gins available to consumers and allowed for the experimentation and innovation that is the hallmark of craft gin.
Craft gin is a unique and delicious spirit that offers a sense of place and character. It’s a perfect drink for those looking for something different and authentic. With the increasing popularity of craft gin, there has never been a better time to try one of these unique and delicious gins. Whether you’re a gin connoisseur or new to gin, craft gin offers a unique and exciting experience.
