The History of Gin
Gin has a captivating history and presents a tale worth exploring. To delve into its origins we must journey back to ancient times.
Today, gin stands as a distilled spirit renowned for embodying the aromatic essence and distinctive flavor of juniper berries, a characteristic that lends its name to the Dutch word "genever" and the French "genièvre."
The genesis of gin is shrouded in various accounts, yet its roots can be traced as far back as the 11th century, when it found its initial purpose as a medicinal remedy. Monks, adept at the art of distillation, utilized juniper berries to create spirits believed to alleviate a spectrum of ailments.
However, the gin of history differs significantly from its modern iteration, comprising a blend of grain-based malt wine and neutral spirits, with juniper serving to mask any harsh notes. During the tumultuous era of the 1340s, amidst the ravages of the Bubonic Plague in Europe, it is speculated that a form of juniper tonic was consumed as a preventative measure against the deadly disease.
Fast forward to the 17th century, a pivotal period marked by the Dutch struggle for independence from Spanish rule. English soldiers, enlisted to aid their Dutch counterparts, encountered the Dutch spirit known as "jenever," imbibing it for courage before battle. This introduction to gin left a mark, as soldiers returned home with a new found fondness for the spirit, ultimately bringing it to England's shores.
However, it wasn't until the late 1600s, under the reign of King William of Orange, that gin truly began to flourish, fueled by economic policies aimed at promoting domestic spirit production. With heavy taxes levied on imported spirits and trade restrictions implemented, gin's ascent in London became inevitable, solidifying its status as a cultural staple.
All gin undergoes a process of re-distillation, sometimes even multiple times. During this process, the ethanol is exposed to a carefully chosen mix of herbs and spices to infuse it with flavor. The traditional method involves steeping botanicals in a pot still with the base spirit. The duration of steeping varies, with some opting for immediate distillation while others let it steep for up to 48 hours or more. This approach is common among England’s heritage London Dry gin brands. However, many distilleries combine this traditional method with others to create unique flavors.
A more contemporary technique involves placing the botanicals in baskets within the still at specific heights. As the vapor rises through the still, it passes through these botanicals, extracting their aromas without direct contact with the liquid spirit. This steaming method results in a more nuanced and refined flavor profile in the distilled spirit.
Dylan Latham is Kiepersol’s Distiller. Creating enticing spirits from scratch ignited his passion for the craft of distilling. He fits right in at a distillery that values faith, family, and a genuine love of people. With a focus on craftsmanship and a dedication to creating exceptional beverages, he brings joy to others through his creations.
Dylan is a native Texan, a former financial professional, and an avid bourbon collector.
