Gin is a juniper berry-flavored grain spirit. The name comes from the Dutch word for juniper. Gin was first found in Holland in the 1580s, where it was termed “Dutch Courage" for soldiers going into battle. In the 1600s, gin was first used for medicinal purposes, and later became popular as a beverage.
Gin gained popularity quickly in England, where it is estimated that 1/4th of households were producing gin in the 1720s. In the 18th century, gin became popular throughout the British Colonies, including America. Americans added their own flavor to gin consumption, developing hundreds of mixed drink gin recipes. The popular Gin and Tonic recipe began as a way for gentlemen to take their daily dose of quinine.
Gin gained rapid popularity in the United States during the Prohibition of the 1920s. Gin was not only easy to produce but also required no aging, making it an easy choice for bootleggers.
Today, Spain boasts the highest consumption of gin in the world, where the popular Gin and Coke reigns supreme.
Popular Gin Recipes
Alabama Slammer: 1 oz Southern Comfort 1 oz Sloe Gin Orange juice to taste
Creamy Fizz: 2 oz Gin Juice of 1/2 Lemon 1 1/2 tsp Powdered Sugar 1 1/2 tsp Light Cream Club Soda Ice
Gin Gibson: 1 1/2 oz Gin 3/4 oz Vermouth 2 Cocktail onion
Gin and Tonic: 2 oz Gin Tonic Water Ice
Directions: Pour gin into a glass 1/4 full of ice cubes and fill with tonic water.
About the Author: Ginning Up is an eBook filled with tales, trivia and the stories of Gin, a renowned spirit that is back in the spotlight. For a free sample chapter, visit http://www.bottlesofgin.com.
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