The Origins of Gin
Gin has been enjoyed for centuries, yet its story stretches far beyond the familiar gin and tonic. From its early medicinal beginnings to today’s busy pub and bar scene, gin has continually changed with the times. Today, there is an enormous choice of traditional, craft and flavoured gins available. However, juniper remains at the heart of this popular spirit. So, where did gin begin and how did it become such a firm favourite? From Genever to Gin The story of gin can be traced back to Europe and a spirit known as genever. Produced in the Netherlands and Belgium, genever was traditionally made using malt wine flavoured with juniper and other botanicals. At the time, juniper was associated with various medicinal properties. As a result, early juniper-based spirits were often produced and consumed for medicinal purposes. By the 17th century, the spirit had made its way to England. Here, production methods and tastes began to change. Eventually, the English style became drier and increasingly distinct from traditional genever. England and the Gin Craze Gin became enormously popular in England during the first half of the 18th century. In fact, consumption became so widespread that the period became known as the Gin Craze. Gin was relatively inexpensive to produce and widely available. Consequently, excessive consumption became associated with serious social problems. The period was famously depicted by artist William Hogarth in his 1751 print Gin Lane. The work presented a grim picture of the effects associated with excessive gin consumption in London. In the same year, the Gin Act 1751 introduced tighter controls on the sale of gin. These regulations helped reduce consumption and encouraged more regulated production. How Gin Production Developed Gin continued to change throughout the following century. During the 19th century, improvements in distillation technology allowed producers to create cleaner and more refined spirits. This helped pave the way for the dry styles of gin that many drinkers recognise today. Different production methods, botanical combinations and regional influences subsequently created an increasingly diverse range of gins. Different Styles of Gin London Dry Gin is perhaps the best-known style. It is generally associated with a dry character and a noticeable juniper flavour. Plymouth Gin is another historic British style. Traditionally produced in Plymouth, it has developed its own distinctive identity and flavour profile. Old Tom Gin is sweeter than London Dry and was particularly popular during the 18th and 19th centuries. More recently, bartenders have rediscovered it for use in traditional cocktails. Navy Strength Gin has a considerably higher alcohol content than standard gin. Its name reflects gin’s long association with the Royal Navy. Meanwhile, many modern producers have experimented with different botanicals. Citrus fruits, herbs, spices and floral ingredients can all feature alongside juniper. Flavoured gins have also become increasingly popular. Therefore, customers now have a remarkable choice of styles behind the bar. Gin and the Rise of the Tonic Of course, no look at gin would be complete without mentioning its most famous partner, tonic water. Gin and tonic has a history of its own. However, what began as a practical combination eventually developed into one of Britain’s most recognisable mixed drinks. Today, the G&T remains a staple in pubs, clubs, bars, hotels and restaurants. Furthermore, the huge choice of modern gins allows venues to offer customers different combinations and serves. The mixer matters too. A good tonic should complement the gin rather than overpower it. Therefore, consistency and the correct balance between spirit and mixer are important. Gin, Tonic and Modern Bar Service Despite the growth of elaborate cocktails, the straightforward gin and tonic has never disappeared from British bars. It is quick to prepare, familiar to customers and easy to adapt. For example, different garnishes can complement particular botanicals without slowing down service. For busy hospitality venues, post-mix tonic can also provide a convenient way to serve consistent mixers at the bar. It reduces the need to open individual bottles while keeping service moving during busy periods. At CS Drinks, we supply post-mix soft drinks, mixers and dispensing equipment to pubs, clubs, bars, bistros, cafés and other hospitality businesses. With more than 35 years of experience in the drinks trade, we understand the importance of quality, consistency and dependable equipment. So, whether it’s paired with a classic London Dry or one of today’s modern gins, the humble tonic continues to play an important part behind the bar.