A Spirited Journey: How Gin is Made

A Spirited Journey: How Gin is Made

Gin, a vibrant and multifaceted spirit, has captivated drinkers from London to Tokyo and beyond with its distinctive flavours and undeniable versatility. Whether it’s the star of a classic gin and tonic, a bold negroni, or a complex craft cocktail, gin has firmly secured its place in the hearts of cocktail enthusiasts. But have you ever paused to consider the craftsmanship and creativity that go into each bottle? From its botanical base to the artistry of distillation, gin’s creation is a fascinating journey worth exploring.

What’s in a Bottle of Gin?

At its essence, gin is a neutral spirit that is flavoured predominantly with juniper berries. Juniper is the hallmark of gin, the essential botanical that gives the spirit its distinctive piney, resinous character. Without it, gin simply wouldn’t be gin. But juniper is only the beginning; the world of gin is a botanical playground where distillers infuse their own creativity, layering flavours to craft unique and memorable profiles. Common botanicals include coriander seeds, citrus peels such as lemon and orange, angelica root, orris root, and an array of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, or nutmeg. Some adventurous distillers even incorporate unexpected ingredients such as lavender, cucumber, and seaweed, pushing the boundaries of traditional gin flavours.

These botanicals work together to create a harmonious balance of flavours, but they also leave room for creativity and experimentation. Each botanical contributes its own personality, from the zesty brightness of citrus peels to the earthy depth of roots and the exotic allure of spices. This diversity of ingredients means that no two gins are exactly alike, making the spirit an endlessly intriguing canvas for distillers and a thrilling experience for drinkers.

The Distillation Process: Science Meets Art

So how does a neutral spirit transform into the flavourful gin we know and love? The magic happens during the distillation process, where science and artistry collide. Distillers begin with a neutral base spirit, often derived from grains like barley, wheat, or corn. However, some gins use alternative bases, including grapes, sugar beets, or even potatoes, adding subtle differences to the final product.
The distillation process is where the botanicals infuse their flavours into the spirit, and there are several methods to achieve this:

Pot Still Distillation is one of the traditional methods, ideal for creating richer, more robust gins. In this process, the botanicals are steeped in the base spirit before distillation begins. This allows the flavours to fully saturate the spirit, resulting in a gin with deep, bold characteristics. The pot still method is often favored by smaller craft distilleries seeking to create distinctive, handcrafted products.

Column Still Distillation, on the other hand, is perfect for producing cleaner, lighter styles of gin. The column still allows for greater precision and control over the distillation process, making it a popular choice for distillers aiming for a delicate, refined flavour profile.

Vapor Infusion is an innovative technique where botanicals are placed in a basket above the base spirit. As the alcohol vapor rises during distillation, it passes through the botanicals, capturing their aromatic compounds. This method, famously employed by brands like Bombay Sapphire, creates a lighter and more aromatic gin.

For those seeking a more homespun approach, Cold Compounding offers a nod to gin’s prohibition-era roots. Sometimes called "bathtub gin," this method skips the distillation process entirely. Instead, botanicals are infused directly into the neutral spirit, resulting in a product that’s more rustic and approachable. While cold compounding is less common among premium gin brands, it’s a testament to the spirit’s versatility and storied history.

Each distillation method has its own merits, and the choice often depends on the style of gin the distiller aims to create. Whether robust or delicate, the end goal is always the same: a balanced and flavourful spirit that highlights the unique qualities of its botanicals.

A World of Styles: The Global Identity of Gin

As gin has evolved over centuries, it has taken on different forms and identities around the globe. The styles of gin we know today reflect a rich history and a diversity of cultural influences. Each style brings something unique to the table, offering gin enthusiasts a world of flavours to explore.

London Dry Gin is perhaps the most iconic style. Despite its name, it doesn’t need to be made in London. This style is defined by its crisp, juniper-forward profile and the absence of added sweeteners. The production process requires that all flavours come solely from the distillation of natural botanicals, ensuring a pure and straightforward gin. Brands like Tanqueray and Beefeater are quintessential examples of this classic style, which remains a staple for traditional cocktails like the martini and gin and tonic.

In contrast, Plymouth Gin, which can only be produced in Plymouth, England, offers a slightly softer and earthier flavour profile. This style is less juniper-forward than London Dry, with a more balanced and rounded botanical mix. Plymouth Gin’s unique characteristics make it an excellent choice for mixing in a wide range of cocktails.

For those with a sweet tooth, Old Tom Gin provides a historical alternative. Sweeter and richer than London Dry, Old Tom dates back to the 18th century, when sugar and other sweeteners were used to mask the harsher flavours of early gin production. Today, it’s experiencing a revival in the craft cocktail scene, where bartenders appreciate its ability to add depth and complexity to drinks.
In recent years, the rise of New Western or Contemporary Gin has shaken up the traditional gin landscape. This modern style de-emphasizes juniper, allowing other botanicals to take center stage. Brands like Hendrick’s, with its distinctive cucumber and rose notes, exemplify this trend. New Western gins are adventurous and innovative, appealing to drinkers who crave something unexpected and unique.

Meanwhile, Japanese Gin has gained international acclaim for its elegance and subtlety. Drawing on local botanicals like yuzu, cherry blossoms, and green tea, Japanese distillers create gins that are light, refined, and deeply connected to their cultural heritage. These gins are perfect for sipping neat or in minimalist cocktails that allow their delicate flavours to shine.

Finally, no discussion of gin would be complete without mentioning Dutch Genever, the ancestor of modern gin. Genever has a malted grain base, giving it a rich, whiskey-like character. While it may taste quite different from the gin we’re accustomed to today, genever’s influence on the development of the spirit is undeniable. It’s best enjoyed neat or in simple cocktails that highlight its malty depth.

Why Gin Continues to Captivate

Gin’s enduring appeal lies in its remarkable diversity. It’s a spirit that thrives on creativity and reinvention, offering endless possibilities for flavour exploration. From the meticulous selection of botanicals to the artistry of distillation and the cultural influences that shape its styles, gin is a testament to the ingenuity of its makers.
As cocktail culture continues to evolve, gin remains at the forefront, inspiring mixologists and delighting drinkers with its versatility. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of a gin martini or the playful allure of a contemporary cocktail, there’s a gin out there to suit every taste.

So the next time you raise a glass of gin, take a moment to savour not just the drink itself but the journey it represents. Behind every bottle is a story of craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation. It’s more than just a drink; it’s an invitation to explore the world, one botanical at a time. Cheers to gin, the spirit of endless possibilities!