Sip #11 2024

The Gin

Hello Reader, Happy Friday!
In this edition, we cover the theme of London Dry Gin.

Gin of the Week: Old Raj Dry Gin🤴

🍸Hello Gin heads, this week's Gin Feature is Old Raj. A classic London Dry which comes to form at a royal burgh in Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 called Campbeltown which has been bottling this gem of a gin since 1972.

The first noticeable characteristic that stands out is the yellow tint of the gin that comes from the infusion of Saffron. The gin incorporates the saffron with subtlety and does come out nicely integrated. At 110 proof, it is perceptibly stronger.

Old Raj Gin boasts a harmonious blend of classic botanicals, including juniper, coriander, Seville orange peel, licorice, angelica root, orris, cinnamon, cassia quills, nutmeg, and the unique addition of saffron, resulting in a complex and aromatic flavor profile.

🌲 Juniper: 4/5 - You can taste the juniper in Old Raj Gin, giving it that classic gin vibe. It's bold and authentic, adding a nice depth to the flavor.

🍋 Citrus: 3/5 - You get solid notes of citrus, but it's not too overpowering. While lemon and orange peel are present, it's there in the background, adding a touch of freshness without stealing the show.

🌸 Floral: 3/5 - There's a subtle floral aroma from the Saffron in Old Raj Gin, adding a bit of elegance to the mix. It's not too flowery, just enough to make it interesting.

🍇 Fruit: 1/5 - While not the main event, you can pick up some fruity notes in this gin. It's a nice complement to the other flavors, adding a bit of depth.

🌿 Herbal: 4/5 - The herbal flavors come through, giving this gin a robust and aromatic taste. It's like a walk through a herb garden, with hints of Angelica Root and Orris Root bringing an earthy complexity to the gin.

🌶️ Spice: 4/5 - Old Raj Gin boasts a nuanced spice profile, botanicals like Cassia Bark, Nutmeg, and Coriander deliver spice notes well, enhancing the gin's overall volume of flavor

🍹 ABV: 55% - This gin packs a punch with a 55% alcohol content. It's strong but smooth, perfect for sipping straight or mixing into your favorite cocktails.

Overall Rating: 4 / 5

Old Raj Dry Gin | Where to buy.

Story: London Dry 🎡

London dry gin, a beloved libation was born from the bustling streets of 18th-century London.
It is today more than just a drink—it's a testament to craftsmanship and tradition. As for its origin, London Dry Gin doesn't hail from a specific distillery or region. Instead, it's a term used to describe a style of gin crafted in London, England.

Crafted with juniper as its backbone, this spirit undergoes a meticulous distillation process, marrying a medley of botanicals handpicked by each distiller to impart their own unique character and charm. Juniper berries took the spotlight as the star botanical, lending their distinctive flavor to the spirit and earning their place as a cornerstone of gin-making tradition.

But what sets London dry gin apart? It's the unmistakable juniper-forward flavor profile, adorned with hints of citrus, herbs, fruits, and spices, creating a symphony of taste on the palate. Yet, the term "London dry" isn't tied to a specific locale; rather, it denotes a method of distillation governed by strict guidelines.

When you see "London dry gin" adorning a bottle, it only signifies a commitment to quality and tradition. Distilled to precise specifications, with natural botanicals infused during the distillation process, and strictly limited post-distillation additives, this gin is a testament to purity and craftsmanship.

So, the next time you savor a sip of London dry gin, remember its storied origins—the gin craze (read about it here) of the 1700s, the pursuit of quality amidst chaos, and the enduring legacy of Gin that continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.

And speaking of London Dry 🎡 scroll down for a unique recipe👇

What is London Dry Gin? (Updated 2024)

Masterclass: Mouthfeel of Gin (in 5 Steps) 😋

In our Gin Mouthfeel Masterclass, we'll explore the diverse characters that define the mouthfeel of London dry gin. Each characteristic contributes to the overall drinking experience in its own unique way, inviting you to savor every sip. Let's delve into these characters:

Texture: Picture this: You take a sip of London dry gin, and it glides across your palate like silk, leaving behind a velvety sensation. That's texture in action! Texture refers to the way the gin feels in your mouth—smooth, robust, gritty, or somewhere in between. Pay close attention to how the gin coats your tongue and discern the texture that speaks to you.
Viscosity: Now, let's talk about viscosity—the thickness or fluidity of the gin. Imagine a gin with high viscosity, like a rich syrup that lingers on your palate, versus a lighter viscosity that evaporates quickly, leaving a subtle essence behind. Notice how viscosity contributes to the overall mouthfeel and character of the gin.
Weight: Think of weight as the heft or lightness of the gin in your mouth. Some gins feel airy and effortless, while others have a more substantial presence that commands attention. Pay heed to the weight of the gin as it dances across your palate, shaping your perception of its flavor and body.
Warmth: Ah, warmth—the comforting embrace of a well-crafted gin. Take a moment to feel the gentle heat that spreads through your chest as you savor each sip. Notice how warmth adds depth and dimension to the drinking experience, creating a sense of coziness and satisfaction.
Temperature: Close your eyes and imagine the sensation of a chilled gin refreshing your senses on a warm summer day. Or perhaps you prefer the nuanced flavors that emerge from a gin served at room temperature. Temperature plays a vital role in unlocking the full potential of gin's flavor profile, so explore different serving temperatures to find your perfect match.
Lubrication: Last but not least, let's consider lubrication—the smooth, velvety sensation that lingers on your palate after each sip. Some gins leave your mouth feeling dry and parched, while others offer a luxurious, lubricating texture that invites you to indulge further. Notice how lubrication enhances the overall drinking experience, leaving you craving another taste.

As you explore these characters of mouthfeel, you'll develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the intricate artistry.

Cocktail for the week: Spanish Gin and Tonic (Gin Tonica)🍹

Ingredients:

1 ounce Cognac
1 ounce London Dry Gin
1 ounce Sweet Vermouth
2 dashes of Orange Bitters

Instructions:

Fill a mixing glass with ice.
Add the Cognac, London Dry Gin, Sweet Vermouth, and orange bitters to the mixing glass.
Stir the ingredients well until thoroughly chilled, about 30 seconds.
Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
Optionally, garnish with an orange twist or a Luxardo cherry.
Enjoy your delicious Ampersand cocktail!

This cocktail offers a rich and flavorful experience, combining the depth of Cognac with the botanical complexity of London Dry Gin, balanced by the sweetness of vermouth and the subtle citrus notes from the orange bitters. It's a sophisticated drink that's perfect for sipping and savoring. Cheers! 🥃

Community Spotlight: Gin Geine Bar

New printed backdrop for the Gin Genie bar. Looking forward to seeing it in use very shortly #gin #vodka #cocktails ⁦@GBrewery⁩ ⁦@jules_annan⁩ ⁦@dawniedavidson⁩ ⁦@CheekyVic⁩ ⁦@StephenGormley3