Gin (alcoholic drink)

This popular spirit, originating from Holland and established in England, ranges in strength from 10° to 55° and is used as a base for various alcoholic cocktails. The resulting drinks acquire a distinctive juniper flavor.

Gin is made by fermenting a tincture of juniper berries and grains such as barley, rye, or wheat without added sugar, followed by rectification. Since few gins undergo oak aging during production, various flavorings are added to the spirit during distillation. Herbs, spices, and fruit extracts, used as additional ingredients, are added to the juniper berries, resulting in various aromatic variations and a subtle hint of flavor.

Some types of gin contain additional botanical ingredients, such as anise seeds, coriander seeds, caraway seeds, orris root, rose petals, nutmeg, dried citrus peel (lime, orange, lemon, grapefruit); angelica, licorice, fennel, almonds, cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, coriander; prunes, and sloe berries. There are two types of gin: London dry gin without flavorings and Plymouth gin. The most popular brands are Gordon's, Bombay Sapphire, Bombay gin, and Plymouth.

Gin is served as an aperitif, whets the appetite, and is refreshing and invigorating in cocktails. Gin cocktail recipes Includes the use of fruit and berry juices and ginger beer. Gin is also combined with soda, cola, and tonic to make a gin and tonic drink. A dry martini is made by mixing gin with vermouth. Gin is served in small shot glasses or in martini glasses with plenty of ice. Gin drinks are garnished with finely chopped mint, green olives, spiral-cut citrus peel, lemon twists, and lemon or lime wedges.