Are you ready to raise a glass and celebrate International Gin and Tonic Day?
The International Gin & Tonic Day falls on 19 October, which just so happens to be a Saturday as well! Whether you're a gin aficionado or just looking to mix things up, this is the perfect excuse to try something new. Forget the run-of-the-mill gins you find at every corner store - we're talking about unique, artisanal gins that will take your taste buds on a wild ride.
What makes these gins stand out?
These gins are not your average Joe. They're different, daring, and always apt for having a good time. Each gin brand brings something special to the table, from exotic botanicals to innovative production techniques.
(left to right of photo)
1. Jung One Gin, 47% ABV (South Korea)
This is a single malt Gin from Three Societies distillery in South Korea, which have been making steady waves in the international scene with Ki One single malt whisky; demonstrating the potential of Korean whisky. Jung One means "Garden" in Korean, and the name symbolizes the many local botanicals that are used to make this batch gin. Made with premium malt spirits produced directly at the distillery.
Mood: You are on the high slopes of Jirisan mountain (지리산) watching monks harvest baby tea leaves by hand in the wee mornings of April.
Botanicals: juniper, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, lemon & orange peel, pine needle, lavender, chopi (Korean sansho peppercorn), baby ginseng, and perilla leaf
Recommended: This weighty gin is a great sipper to many's surprise. We'd recommend sipping this neat first to enjoy the rich and packed flavours before concocting a classic recipe of gin & tonic!
2. Jin Jiji High Proof Dry Gin, 57% ABV (India)
Jin JiJi High Proof is inspired by the Royal British Navy who during Colonial times first set a high proof requirement for gin being transported to India. As space is scarce on ships, the Navy preferred alcohol at higher strength as they could get more in a smaller space. A strength of 57% ensures that gunpowder isn’t contaminated in case of a spill.
Mood: You are transported to the spice market in the old town of Zanzibar.
Botanicals: coriander seeds, juniper, black tea, angelica root, tulsi (holy basil), cashew nut, chamomile
Recommended: Great for making a potent G&T or Negroni, and a solid sipper for the brave hearted.
3. Vallombrosa Dry Gin, 47% ABV (Italy)
An Italian gin made by the Benedictine monks of Vallombrosa Abbey, located in the Apennines Mountain, between the Tuscany and Emilia Romagna region. Aside from being known for making chocolate, honey and herb products, the Vallombrosa Abbey also makes this dry Gin.
What makes it special is that this is made from only one botanical, the one botanical that defines Gin, yes, Juniper! This is as gin as gin gets. Old school stuff.
Mood: You are in a 16th century alchemy room filled with elixirs, herb tinctures, infusions and the scent of old books piling up everywhere.
Botanical: Juniper
Recommended: Makes a fantastic Martini and Negroni.
4. Nadar Gin, 43% ABV (Scotland)
Meaning nature in Gaelic, Nàdar harnesses the power of nature and science to create the world’s first climate positive gin made from peas. A revolutionary spirit for the drinks industry, with a carbon footprint of -1.54 kg CO2e per 700ml bottle, Nàdar is at the forefront of fighting climate change and biodiversity loss.
At Arbikie, they make their own base spirit, which means that they have direct control over the crops they use to make the spirits. After years of study by Master Distiller, Kirsty Black, Arbikie has concluded that peas were an ideal choice for the planet as the pea crop requires no nitrogen fertiliser.
This gin truly smells like peas and is gentle and has greenish notes on the palate! A great gin & tonic/negroni component.
Mood: You are lying on a green field surrounded by green pea plants, lupins, sunset and a cool breeze.
Botanical: Makrut Lime Leaf, Lemongrass, Juniper
Recommended: Makes a refreshing summer G&T!