GIN

What is gin?

Gin is a distilled alcoholic beverage, usually made from cereals such as barley, wheat, or rye, and flavored primarily with juniper berries, which give it its characteristic taste. Other botanicals such as coriander, citrus peel, angelica root, and cardamom are often added to enrich its flavor profile.

Properties of gin

• High alcohol content: Generally has between 37.5% and 47% alcohol by volume (ABV), although there are some gins with lower or higher concentrations.
• Potential benefits: Juniper and other botanical ingredients have antioxidant, diuretic, and digestive properties. However, these effects are minor compared to the alcohol content.
• Calories: It has a significant amount of calories per 100 ml due to the alcohol (around 250 calories per 100 ml).

Types of gin

There are different types of gin, which vary in terms of taste, distillation method, and ingredients used:

London Dry Gin: It is the most common variety and is characterized by being dry, with a strong juniper flavor. No sugars are added after distillation.
Plymouth Gin: Similar to London Dry, but with a smoother recipe and produced exclusively in Plymouth, England.
Old Tom Gin: Sweeter than London Dry and with a more rounded flavor. It was very popular in the 19th century.
Flavored gin: Fruits, flowers, or other flavors are added, such as strawberry or cucumber gin, to give distinctive flavors.
Genever Gin: It is an older style of gin, originating from the Netherlands and Belgium, more similar to whisky, with a maltier flavor.

Main producing countries

• United Kingdom: England, especially London, is famous for its London Dry gin.
• Netherlands: The original home of gin (Geneva), and still a key producer of this beverage.
• Belgium: Also known for its gin production, similar to the style of the Netherlands.
• Spain: In recent years, Spain has emerged as a major consumer and producer of gin, with popular premium brands.
• USA: Although better known for its liquors, the United States also produces gin, especially in regions like California.

How to consume or prepare it

Gin and Tonic: One of the most popular combinations, with gin, tonic, and a slice of lemon or lime.
Classic cocktails:
Martini: Gin, dry vermouth, and an olive or lemon twist.
Negroni: Gin, red vermouth, and Campari.
Tom Collins: Gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda.
Gimlet: Gin and lime juice or lime cordial.

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