Gin is one of the most used spirits in the preparation of cocktails, thanks to its versatility and its strong aroma. Gin is obtained by distilling grain alcohol flavored with juniper berries and other spices or herbs, which vary depending on the producer and style.
There are several types of gin, including London Dry Gin, the most popular and driest, Plymouth Gin, softer and sweeter, Old Tom Gin, slightly sweetened, Genever or Jenever, the oldest and originally from Holland and Belgium, Sloe Gin, made from wild sloes macerated in gin, and New Western Dry Gin, the most innovative and creative, which enhances botanical aromas in addition to juniper.
Gin cocktails are many and varied, both classic and modern, both simple and elaborate. In this article we offer you six recipes for gin cocktails that you should absolutely know, both for their history and for their flavor.
- Gin Tonic : it is the simplest and most famous cocktail with gin, born in India in the 19th century as a remedy against malaria. It is prepared by pouring 4 cl of gin and 8 cl of tonic water into a tall glass with ice. You can add a slice of lemon or lime to give a touch of freshness. Gin Tonic is a thirst-quenching and bitter cocktail, perfect for an aperitif or for summer evenings.
- Negroni : it is a cocktail with gin much loved in Italy, created in Florence in 1919 by Count Camillo Negroni, who asked the barman Fosco Scarselli to replace the soda with gin in his Americano. It is prepared by pouring 3 cl of gin, 3 cl of Campari bitters and 3 cl of red vermouth into an old fashioned glass with ice. It is mixed delicately and garnished with a slice of orange. The Negroni is an enveloping and complex cocktail, ideal for an aperitif or after dinner.
- Dry Martini : it is one of the most elegant and iconic gin cocktails, made famous by James Bond and other characters from cinema and literature. Its origin is uncertain, but it is thought to have been born in the United States between the end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth century. It is prepared by pouring 6 cl of gin and 1 cl of dry vermouth into a shaker with ice. Shake well and filter into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a green olive or a lemon peel. The Dry Martini is a dry and strong cocktail, suitable for refined palates.
- Gin Fizz : is a cocktail with sparkling and refreshing gin, belonging to the sour family. Its origin dates back to the second half of the nineteenth century in the United States. It is prepared by pouring 5 cl of gin, 3 cl of fresh lemon juice and 2 cl of sugar syrup into a shaker with ice. Shake well and filter into a highball glass without ice. Complete with sparkling water or soda and garnish with a slice of lemon. Gin Fizz is a light and acidic cocktail, perfect for quenching your thirst.
- Tom Collins : is a gin cocktail similar to Gin Fizz, but served with ice in the glass. Its origin is controversial, but it is thought to have been created in New York in 1876 by barman Jerry Thomas. It is prepared by pouring 4.5 cl of gin, 3 cl of fresh lemon juice and 1.5 cl of sugar syrup into a shaker with ice. Shake well and filter into a Collins glass with ice. Complete with sparkling water or soda water and garnish with a slice of lemon and a maraschino cherry. Tom Collins is a thirst-quenching and balanced cocktail, ideal for an aperitif or for hot days.
- Bramble : is a colorful and fruity gin cocktail, created in 1984 by the English bartender Dick Bradsell at Fred's Club in London. It is prepared by pouring 5 cl of gin, 2.5 cl of fresh lemon juice and 1.5 cl of sugar syrup into a shaker with ice. Shake well and filter into an old fashioned glass with crushed ice. Pour 1.5 cl of blackberry liqueur on top to create a waterfall effect. Garnish with fresh blackberries. The Bramble is a sweet and aromatic cocktail, suitable for spring or summer.
These are just a few examples of the many gin cocktails you can try. Experiment with your favorite ingredients and create your own custom mixes.
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And remember to always drink in moderation and responsibly. Cheers! 🍸
