Gin: Classic spirit creates cocktail stir worldwide

Flip through classic cocktail recipe books and one will find a great number of gin recipes weaved throughout. The reason is fair enough; distilled spirits possessing the flavored qualities of juniper can be dated back to the 11th century for its believed medicinal properties and perfumed botanical aroma. The flavor added greatly to the function of the spirit as well. Spirit production in the earliest days was not nearly as clean and pure as the modern consumer is accustomed to in today’s highly competitive and regulated market. Gin’s flavor did not stand up all that terrifically either which called for the inclusion of lots of orange juice, lemon and lime to mask the pungent taste experience. It is why cocktails such as the Orange Blossom were created; to cover the flavor of poorly crafted spirits. 

 

That is all a thing of the past with high quality spirits that have stood the test of time.  Gin still reigns supreme as the primary spirit that comes to mind for many when asked about vintage cocktail recipes. Ironically enough the United States and Europe are not the largest market for gin production according to one source. “The Philippines is the world’s largest gin market,” – Gin & Vodka Association. Though the Philippine gin, Ginebra San Miguel, is acknowledged as the world’s largest selling gin taking a 43% global market share, it is also one that might not be readily recognizable to many American consumers.  Brands such as Bombay Sapphire, Beefeater, Tanqueray, Hendrick’s, G’vine and Plymouth come to mind much quicker though their market share ranks less. The reason in the U.S. could possibly account for American’s wish for enhanced spirits, better drinking experiences and the trend of Speakeasy style bars in recent years. Super premium brand growth increased in the U.S by 18.6% in volume.

 

One of the previously mentioned premium brands, Bombay Sapphire, finds its way into several classic cocktails and many more contemporary styled recipes. The photo drink recipe slideshow below features 19 vintage drink recipes and modern cocktails using this classic gin spirit. Bombay Sapphire is distilled by Greenalls in England for Bacardi LTD.

 

21 Must Try Classic Cocktails and Top 10 Classic Cocktails covers an assortment of reader favorites. More tempting gin cocktails are available for those leaning toward contemporary and fun styled cocktail recipes. 

 

 

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www.discus.org – Distilled Spirits Council of the United States

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