What is gin?
Gin is a spirit that’s defined by its predominant flavor of juniper berries. It originated in 17th century Holland, where it was first used for medicinal purposes. Nowadays, gin is enjoyed around the world as an alcoholic beverage that can be enjoyed on its own or mixed into a cocktail.
When it comes to making gin, there are a variety of botanicals that can be used in addition to juniper berries, such as coriander, angelica root, and citrus peels. This diversity of flavors contributes to the unique taste profile of different gin brands, making each bottle of gin a distinct and flavorful experience.
Spain is becoming renowned for its gin distillers, who often incorporate locally sourced botanicals, such as Spanish olives, lemons and oranges, to create a unique flavor profile that celebrates the region.
Although gin is most commonly associated with cocktails like the gin and tonic, it can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. For those who enjoy the flavor of gin, sipping it straight can offer a more nuanced experience of the botanicals used in production.
Spain’s gin history
If you think of Spain, gin may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, Spain has a long and fascinating history with gin, dating back to the 18th century.
In the mid-1700s, British soldiers stationed in Spain began mixing gin and tonic as a way to combat malaria. It wasn’t long before the Spanish caught on to the trend, and gin became a popular drink throughout the country.
During the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s, gin was one of the few drinks that remained widely available, leading to its continued popularity. Today, Spain is one of the largest consumers of gin in the world.
Spain has also put their own spin on gin, with the popular gin and tonic culture throughout the country. In Spain, gin and tonic isn’t just a drink – it’s an art form. The Spanish have perfected the garnish game, with creative and elaborate additions to their gin and tonic, such as fresh herbs, fruit, and even edible flowers.
Spain even has their own gin, Gin Mare, which is made with botanicals sourced from the Mediterranean, including olives, thyme, and basil. This unique combination gives Gin Mare a distinct, refreshing flavor that is perfect for sipping on a hot day.
So, if you’re a gin lover, don’t overlook Spain and their rich gin history. Whether you’re sipping on a classic gin and tonic or trying out a Spanish twist on the classic, Spain has something to offer for every gin enthusiast.
Types of gin produced in Spain
If you are a gin lover, then you must have heard of the thriving Spanish gin industry. Spain is known to produce some of the most unique and delicious gins in the world, thanks to the country’s rich history and abundance of natural resources. As a matter of fact, Spain is the largest gin consumer in Europe, and the trend seems to be catching on globally.
There are different types of gin produced in Spain, and each is distinctive in its flavor profile. Here are some types of gins produced in Spain that you should definitely try:
- Classic gin: This is a traditional gin that is distilled and bottled in Spain. It has a juniper-forward taste and is well-known for its freshness and crispiness.
- Flavored gin: Over the years, Spain has become famous for producing gins with natural flavors, including citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and grapefruits. These gins are popular for their fruity notes and are perfect for cocktails.
- Aged gin: This is gin that has been matured in barrels for a couple of months or years. As a result, it has a rich, complex flavor profile that is distinct from other gins. Aged gin is a perfect balance between the flavors of oak and the botanicals used in the distillation process.
- Herbal gin: This gin has a distinct aroma of herbs and botanicals. It’s made by steeping dried herbs and flowers in the still before distillation, which gives it the distinct herbal taste.
Conclusion
Spain is truly a haven for gin lovers, and if you’re interested in expanding your gin knowledge, then Spain should be on your bucket list of places to visit. With so many unique and flavorful gins, it’s easy to see why the country has become a leader in gin production. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a bottle of Spanish gin today and explore the unique flavors that Spain has to offer.
Top Spanish gin brands
Spain is famous for its wines and cocktails, but in recent years, Spanish gin has been making a name for itself in the world of spirits. Here are the top Spanish gin brands that you need to try:
1. Gin Mare
Gin Mare is one of the most famous and recognised gins from Spain. It’s a Mediterranean gin, which means that it’s infused with several herbs and botanicals found in the Mediterranean region. These include rosemary, thyme, olives and basil. The result is a gin that has a unique savoury character, perfect for those who prefer a more savoury cocktail.
2. Nordés Gin
Nordés gin is another unique Spanish gin that is made using a grape-based spirit. It’s infused with 12 botanicals, including eucalyptus, lemon verbena, hibiscus, and sage. The botanicals are locally sourced from the Atlantic region of Galicia in the Northwest of Spain. Nordés gin has a refreshing and floral taste, making it perfect for a summer cocktail.
3. Ginself
Ginself is a newer gin brand from Spain, but it has already gained a reputation as one of the best gins from the country. It’s a London Dry gin that is distilled in Catalonia, using locally sourced botanicals. These include sage, lemon verbena, rosemary, and thyme. The result is a classic gin that is perfect for a G&T or a classic Martini.
4. Xoriguer Gin
If you’re looking for a gin with a bit of history, then Xoriguer Gin is the one for you. It’s a gin that is made using a traditional distillation method that has been passed down through generations of Menorcans. The gin is made using a grape-based spirit and is flavoured with juniper berries, giving it a classic gin flavour.
There you have it, four of the best Spanish gin brands that you need to try. Next time you’re in Spain, make sure to sample some of these gins, or if you can’t wait, order them online to enjoy in the comfort of your own home.
Tasting and pairing Spanish gin
Spain is quickly becoming a top producer of gin, with a variety of unique and flavorful options to choose from. Every gin has its own distinctive botanicals, making them perfect for pairing with different types of food. If you are a gin lover, exploring Spain’s gin scene is a must-do on your list.
The first step to truly tasting Spanish gin is to appreciate its aroma. Take a moment to inhale the scents of the gin and identify the ingredients. Some gins are heavily scented with juniper, while others feature citrus, herbal, or floral scents. The complex aromas of Spanish gin make them perfect for pairing with different foods, cocktails or even as a standalone drink during a summer evening.
When it comes to pairing Spanish gin, there are no hard and fast rules. However, there are some basic considerations that can help bring out the best in each gin. For gins with heavy floral scents, pairing them with light cheese, salads, or other light appetizers can help highlight their delicate flavors. Citrus and fruit-based gins can be paired with spicy or savory foods to create a contrasting, yet well-balanced flavor. On the other hand, if you are drinking a gin with a strong juniper taste, try pairing it with seafood, grilled meats or even cold cuts.
One gin, in particular, that is making waves in the Spanish gin scene is the Gin Mare, made in the Costa Dorada region. This gin comes with a unique blend of botanicals, including rosemary, olives, thyme, and basil. Its herby and slightly salty flavor makes it perfect to pair with olives, seafood, and other Mediterranean ingredients. Another Spanish gin that is worth trying is the Martin Millers, that brings a fruity aroma made with the finest botanicals from across the world.
In summary, pairing Spanish gin with food is a great way to enhance the experience of drinking gin. The country produces some of the most complex and flavorful gins in the world, providing unique and diverse botanicals to explore. So, whether you are sipping gin at a rooftop bar in Seville or enjoying a summer evening on Ibiza, take time to appreciate and taste the incredible range of Spanish gin available.
Mixology with Spanish gin
Spain, with its rich culture and history, is home to some of the finest gin distilleries in the world. Gin, being an important part of Spanish culture, finds itself in many cocktails and spirits. Mixologists and bartenders around the world are now working with Spanish gin to create unique and interesting flavor combinations.
One of the best things about Spanish gin is its versatility. It can be used to create a variety of different cocktails, from fruity and sweet to bold and spicy. When creating a cocktail with Spanish gin, it is important to choose the right mixers and ingredients in order to accentuate the flavors and aromas of the gin itself.
One classic cocktail that can be made using Spanish gin is the Gin and Tonic. Traditionally made with London Dry Gin, the Spanish version of this classic cocktail uses local gins and different botanicals to create a unique flavor profile. When making a Spanish Gin and Tonic, it is important to use a high-quality tonic water, such as Fever-Tree, and to add in fresh fruit and herbs that complement the flavor of the gin.
Another classic cocktail that can be made using Spanish gin is the Negroni. Made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, the Negroni is a classic cocktail that originated in Italy. By replacing the traditional gin with a Spanish gin, the cocktail takes on a completely new and unique flavor profile.
When experimenting with Spanish gin and mixology, it is important to be creative and adventurous. Try mixing different flavors and ingredients to create unique and interesting cocktails. With the right ingredients, anyone can create a delicious and refreshing cocktail using Spanish gin.
Conclusion
In summary, gin has come a long way from its medicinal origins to become a beloved drink around the world. Spain, in particular, has a rich history and thriving industry when it comes to gin production, with unique flavors and blends that showcase the country’s botanical richness. With gin brands such as Gin Mare, Nordés, Ginself, and Xoriguer, Spain offers a range of flavors and aromas that cater to the preferences of avid gin enthusiasts. Beyond just sipping gin, Spanish gin can also be paired with different foods and used in mixology to create exciting cocktails with an added layer of complexity. So, whether you’re a seasoned gin lover or a newcomer, Spain’s gin industry is definitely worth exploring.
