What Is Gin?

The word “gin” is derived from a Dutch word, “genever,” and in French, as “Genièvre,” which means juniper berries. This is the most essential and constant ingredient in the production of this beverage. The beverage originated in Holland and England.

Now remember the word “constant”.

Gin is a clear and colourless liquor made from various botanicals, with the distiller adding the fine, distinctive, and unique notes that give it its character.

Pro note – many think that juniper berries are the base ingredient, but that’s not the case.

What Is The Base Ingredient For Gin?

Are juniper berries the base ingredient for Gin?. Contrary to popular belief, the answer is a resounding NO! Juniper berries are a constant ingredient (as highlighted earlier). The base ingredient is Grain Neutral Spirit (GNS). To this base ingredient, the various botanicals are added to give it its distinct taste and flavours.

Pro note – Grain neutral spirit (GNS) is a foundation for many flavoured liqueurs as well.

What Is Grain Neutral Spirit (GNS)?

Grain neutral spirit is high-proof clear alcohol (spirit) clarified through several distillations, made by fermenting grains like wheat, corn, and barley. This clear spirit is highly versatile for use in other beverages as a base, such as vodka, liqueurs, and flavoured beverages, etc.

Once the base spirit is ready, other botanicals are added to this GNS, let it macerate, and distilled again to get the distinctive flavour from the botanicals.

There are various names gin is known for:-

1. Dutch courage – the troops used to have gin and braced themselves with bravery for a battle.
2. Mother’s Ruin- The women used to drink so much that they ruined their families by fighting and creating mayhem.
3. Gin-soaked – cheap gin made people drink so much of it that they were soaked in it.
4. Gutter drink – low-quality, which was adulterated and mixed with sulphate, was easily available and consumed.
5. Penny gin – This beverage was so cheap that people took a single shot of it for a penny.

Now that we have introduced ourselves to Gin, we will decode this mystery beverage in detail. Types, distillation and botanicals. Including Classic cocktails, and there is also an article which will help you make Easy Christmas Drinks. with it.

Cheers until the next one!

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