If there’s one spirit that has stood the test of time while constantly reinventing itself, it’s gin. As a bartender, I’ve seen gin evolve from the backbone of classic cocktails to the star of modern mixology. Whether you’re a spirit enthusiast, an aspiring bartender, or someone who loves a good drink, understanding gin is essential. Its history, flavors, and best serves will elevate your appreciation for this juniper-led marvel. So, what exactly is gin? Why has it remained a staple behind the bar for centuries? Let’s dive into the history of gin. We’ll explore how it became a global phenomenon, the most famous gin cocktails, and the best gin brands to try. By the end, you’ll be a gin expert or the most knowledgeable one at your next cocktail party.
What Is Gin Made From?
Before we get into the fun stuff, let’s cover the basics.
- Gin is a distilled spirit that gets its dominant flavor from juniper berries. Unlike vodka (which is neutral in taste), gin is all about bold, aromatic flavors.
- Gin is primarily made from grain or malt, which is fermented and distilled. The key flavoring ingredient is juniper berries, but it often includes other botanicals like coriander, angelica root, and citrus peels, contributing to its complex flavor profile.
- Speaking of vodka, gin actually starts as a neutral spirit, much like vodka, before being re-distilled with botanicals. This means that at its core, gin is essentially flavored vodka.
The Origins: From Medicine to Madness to Mixology
The Dutch Beginnings: Genever
Gin’s story starts in the Netherlands with Genever, a maltier, richer ancestor of modern gin. Originally created in the 16th century as a medicinal tonic (juniper was believed to cure ailments), Genever was soon embraced as a drink. Dutch soldiers even drank “Dutch courage” before battle, a tradition that spread gin’s popularity.
Gin Craze in England
When British troops encountered Genever during the Thirty Years’ War, they brought it home, dubbing it “gin.” By the 18th century, gin had exploded in London, but not in a good way. Cheap, poorly made gin led to the Gin Craze, a period of mass consumption (and public drunkenness). The government eventually stepped in with regulations, leading to better-quality gin.
The Rise of London Dry
By the 19th century, gin had cleaned up its act. The invention of the column still allowed for smoother, more refined spirits, giving birth to London Dry Gin – a crisp, juniper-forward style that remains the gold standard today.
From there, it became the backbone of classic cocktails, survived Prohibition, and is now enjoying a craft gin renaissance, with distilleries worldwide putting their own spin on the spirit.
Brands to Stock Behind your Bar
With gin gaining popularity around the world there are so many great ones to try and stock. Of course you need you known brands like:
- Hendricks
- Martin Millers
- Tanqueray
- Sipsmiths
But there are also so many small brands popping up all the time. Make sure you include a few bottles behind your bar that are local to you. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore the world of flavoured gins too. If you need some inspiration, check out 5 Australian Gins You Need to Try where I talk about my favourite gins from my travels around Oz.
It is also worth noting that a good qualuity tonic is necessary in order to keep G&T’s flying off the shelf.
Famous Gin Cocktails
Gin comes in lots of forms, the most common being:
- Gin Martinis – A classic cocktail made with gin and dry vermouth, garnished with an olive or a twist of lemon, known for its refreshing and crisp flavor profile, often enjoyed in elegant settings or as a pre-dinner drink.
- Clover Clubs – A delightful and classic cocktail that combines gin with fresh lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and egg white, creating a frothy, elegant drink that is perfect for any occasion.
- Southside – A refreshing blend of gin, fresh mint, lime juice, and sugar, typically served over crushed ice, creating a vibrant and invigorating drink perfect for summer gatherings or a lively evening out.
- Negroni – A classic cocktail that combines equal parts of gin, vermouth rosso, and Campari, stirred with ice and garnished with an orange peel. The Negroni is known for its bittersweet flavor profile and vibrant red color, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
Why Gin Deserves a Spot in Your Bar
From its wild Gin Craze days to its current status as a mixology superstar, gin has proven it’s here to stay. Whether you prefer a classic London Dry in your martini or a modern craft gin in your G&T, there’s a gin for every palate. My new favourite drink has become a Cosmo but swap the vodka out for gin, it’s soooo good!
Now you know a little bit more about the best gin brands, the history of gin, some famous gin cocktails and most importantly what is gin exactly!
As a bartender, I love gin for its endless versatility, it can be herbal, citrusy, floral, or spicy, making it the perfect spirit for experimentation. So next time you’re at the bar, skip the usual order and try something gin based. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite drink.
