The world of gin is vast and captivating, with a variety of flavors, aromas, and traditions reflecting the rich history of this alcoholic beverage. From London to Tokyo, from classic to contemporary, there is a gin for every palate. In this article, we will explore some of the best gins around, examining their origins, distinctive features, and how they stand out in the mixology landscape.
Classic Gin: Tanqueray London Dry Gin
Origins: Tanqueray is one of London‘s oldest distilleries, founded in 1830 by Charles Tanqueray. Their London Dry Gin is a timeless classic, rooted in the heart of gin tradition.
Features: Tanqueray London Dry Gin is known for its four key botanicals: juniper, coriander, angelica root, and licorice root. This blend creates a balanced gin with notes of citrus and spices, perfect for classic cocktails like the Gin and Tonic.
Craft Gin: Hendrick’s Gin
Origins: Hendrick’s is a Scottish gin created in 1999 by Lesley Gracie. What makes it unique is its distillation process, including the addition of cucumbers and roses, creating a distinctive aromatic profile.
Features: Hendrick’s Gin stands out for its floral and fresh flavor, with a slightly peppery touch. The unusual botanicals make it an intriguing choice for those seeking something different, and it pairs well with more complex cocktails like the Cucumber Basil Smash.
Mediterranean Gin: Gin Mare
Origins: Gin Mare hails from Spain and was launched in 2010. What sets it apart is its blend of Mediterranean botanicals, capturing the essence of the Mediterranean in every sip.
Features: With ingredients like arbequina olives, basil, rosemary, and thyme, Gin Mare offers a fresh and herbaceous taste profile. It’s perfect to enjoy neat with ice or in a Martini to highlight its Mediterranean nuances.
Innovative Gin: Monkey 47
Origins: Monkey 47 is a German gin created in 2010 in the Black Forest by Alexander Stein. Its uniqueness lies in the use of 47 botanicals, including some unusual ones like lingonberries.
Features: With a complex and aromatic profile, Monkey 47 is known for its variety of botanicals contributing to a unique flavor. It’s ideal for those seeking something different and works well in creative cocktail experiments.
Japanese Gin: Roku Gin
Origins: Roku is a Japanese gin produced by Suntory, renowned for its whiskey. Launched in 2017, Roku means “six” in Japanese, reflecting the six Japanese botanicals used in its production.
Features: Roku Gin is distinguished by the use of Japanese botanicals like cherry blossom, sencha tea, and sansho pepper. The result is a balanced gin with floral and spicy notes, perfect for an elegant Gin and Tonic.
Conclusions
The world of gin is a journey through centuries-old traditions and modern innovations. These gins represent just a taste of the vastness and diversity this fascinating world offers. Experiment with different brands and discover the gin that perfectly suits your palate and preferred cocktail style. Whether you’re a lover of classic, craft, Mediterranean, innovative, or Japanese gin, there’s a world of flavors to explore in every sip.
