Gin Flashcards
What increased the popularity of Gin in the 1600’s?
The ascension to the throne of William the Orange in 1689. Gin became unlicensed as the British government attempted to wean the population off French brandy (who they were at war with). Production spiralled out of control and the so called ‘gin-craze’ ensued.
What ended the British ‘gin-craze’?
The Gin Acts of 1736 & 1751 which enforced licensing of both production and selling.
What is gin’s base made of?
High rectified spirit. Normally made from grains which allow for a crisper feel though cheap gins will be made using the most cost effective material.
What are the 5 main botanicals in Gin?
Juniper – Legally Juniper must be present in any product that calls itself gin. Sourced from Italy and the Balkans, Juniper gives gin its characterful pine-like notes as well as hints of heather and lavender.
Coriander Seed - The second most important botanical and is used in every premium gin. Large coriander seeds from Morocco will add a peppery impact whereas seeds from Eastern Europe or Russia are spicy and citric. Indian coriander is even more citric in style.
Angelica Root - Adds earthy, musky, dry and woody aromas. Also helps balance the perfume of other botanicals.
Orris Root – A member of the iris family, orris root is known for its ability to hold in volitile aromas (and is often used in the cosmetic industry). It has its own aroma of parma violets and leaves.
Dried citrus peel – Not used by in every gin. Plymouth used sweet oranges for zestiness, whilst Beefeater uses Seville for a more intense, slightly bitter edge. Can help to add complexity.
What is interesting about liquorice in relation to gin?
Not only does it add spice but also sweetness. Liquorice has a perception of sweetness 20 times that of sugar.
Name the 3 ways in which botanicals can be added to gin
- The botanicals are placed in the diluted spirit and distillation is started immediately (Gordon’s & Tanqueray)
- The botanicals are macerated in the alcohol for 24 hours prior to distillation to help fix the aromas (Beefeater)
- Called a Carterhead still. The botanicals are suspended in a basket in the neck or between te neck and the condenser. This can produce a lighter style of gin (Bombay Sapphire)
Why must distillers make cut points during gin’s second distillation?
The different aromas have varying levels of volatility. The come off the spirit in sequence, rather than together. It tends to go: fruit - spice - root
What is the advantage, in terms of flavour, in bottling gin at 40%?
Gin holds its most volatile aromas (which are the citric ones) at 40% abv. Any less than that and the impact of those aromas and flavours will be lost.
How is gin concentrate made?
In the same way as distilled gin except a much greater quantity of botanicals are used. A regular bottle of gin would have just 4 or 5% gin concentrate. Distilled gin and those made with concentrate are indistinguishable in blind tastings.
Why might a premium gin have flavours added to the final distillate?
Firstly, because some flavours are too fragile to under go distillation e.g. cucumber.
Secondly, the distiller may want a particular aroma to stand out. This can be more easily achieved is they are added separately do they don’t interact with the other botanicals during distillation.
What are fruit gins?
Fruit gins are technically a liqueur as they have sugar added as well as fruit or fresh fruit essence.
How is Gin defined in EU law?
- It must be made using highly rectified spirit of 96% abv
- It must taste predominantly of juniper (natural or nature-identical flavourings can be used)
- It must be minimum 37.5% abv.
How is ‘Distilled Gin’ defined in EU law?
- It must be made using highly rectified spirit of 96% abv
- It must taste predominantly of juniper
- It must be made by redistilling HRS with juniper berries and other natural botanicals.
- Natural or nature-identical flavourings may be added
- It must be minimum 37.5% abv.
How is ‘London Gin’ defined in EU law?
It follows the same guidelines as ‘Distilled Gin’ however no flavourings can be added, natural or otherwise.
Additionally it has no geographic delimitations and can be made anywhere in the world.
Which gin has a protected geographical location?
Plymouth Gin.
