per 100 grams
Carbohydrates 0 g
0%
Proteins 0 g
0%
Fats 0 g
0%
Water 62.1 g
62.1%
Sugar 0 ug
Fiber 0 ug
Trans Fats 0 ug

Gin

263 Calories per 100g

What is Gin?

Gin is a spirit made by distilling a fermented grain mash or a mix of fermented grains with juniper berries. Gin has a distinctive herbal flavor and color that comes from the addition of the juniper berries, as well as other botanicals. Gin is one of the most versatile spirits in the world, as it can be enjoyed neat, in a cocktail, or even used in cooking or baking.

History of Gin

Gin originated in Holland in the early 17th century and is believed to have been warmed and spiced in stills made from wine that had become too cold to drink. Revolutionary though this process may seem, it did not remain distinctive for long. Soon, adding juniper berries to the mixture was favored due to their antiseptic qualities and their ability to cover up unpleasant flavors in the wine. The drink became known as Jenever, and quickly became popular as a cure for ailments such as stomachaches and fevers. The English brought Jenever across the North Sea to England sometime in the late 17th century and, to make it more palatable to the English palate, sweetened it, changed the recipe and renamed it, ‘Gin.’

The Different Types of Gin

There are a few different types of gin today, including London Dry, Distilled, Old Tom, Genever, White, and Navy Style. Here is a brief explanation of each type:

London Dry – This type of gin is distilled using the same traditional technique, however, the juniper does not overpower the other botanicals like it does in Genever. Consequently it has a clear, crisp flavor with a light citrus finish, and is a popular choice for mixed drinks.

Distilled – This type is similar to London Dry but includes other botanicals, such as coriander, angelica, orris root, and cassia bark. Distilled gin is lightly flavored but offers complexity compared to London Dry.

Old Tom – This type of gin was invented in the mid-1800s. Old Tom gin is made with more sweetness compared to other styles, such as London Dry, making it a great choice for cocktails such as the Old Tom Collins.

Genever – This is the oldest style of gin, and originated in Holland. Genever is made with a malted grain base and has a unique flavor due to its high juniper content.

White – White gin also originated in Holland and is a light and citrusy gin that can be enjoyed on its own or used in a cocktail.

Navy Style – This is a strong and full-bodied gin that was created for the Royal British Navy. Navy Style gin is typically higher in alcohol content and has a more intense flavor from the inclusion of a high amount of juniper berries.

How to Drink Gin

Gin can be enjoyed in myriad ways, depending on your preferences and the type of gin that you are drinking. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic gin-based cocktail such as a Martini, Gimlet, or Negroni.

Gin can also be used in food recipes such as risottos or desserts to add a floral, herbal flavor. For example, a traditional Italian risotto with cream and Parmesan can be enhanced with a few drops of gin, or you may choose to bake a decadent cake with a hint of juniper berry flavor. Depending on the intensity of the gin, users should use caution when cooking with gin, as it can become overpowering quickly.

Conclusion

Gin is a spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail. There are numerous types of gin, such as London Dry, Distilled, Old Tom, Genever, White and Navy Style, that each offer a distinct flavor experience. Depending on the gin that is consumed and its intensity, gin can also be used in cooking or baking to add a unique flavor to dishes. No matter what the occasion, there is sure to be a type of gin and style of drinking that will suit you.