The 3 rules of gin

In my next post on the gin basics, The Gin Lord (aka Rory) guest writes on his 3 rules of gin:

2017 is set to be an even bigger year for gin than 2016. If you’ve been a long time gin lover, or are just getting into it – there are some key things to remember when enjoying your favourite tipple!

I have been a gin drinker officially for 11 years. Back then, the selection was very limited. Now, we have the impossible task of tasting thousands of gins world-wide! But in nearly 10 years, the legal definition of “Gin” has not changed.

Bottled at a minimum of 37.5% ABV and the predominant flavour must be juniper.“

When I run my tasting sessions and master-classes – I always talk to people about my “3 Rules of Gin.”

The 3 rules of gin on What's Katie Doing? blog

A recent gin tasting line up = some very different flavours of gin

1. You should be able to drink it neat

Ice optional..

This way you get all the bold and intense flavours up front. This is then followed up by some of the other key botanicals.

It should be smooth, with a warming sensation as you sip it and not have that burn of a cheap spirit. Then, feel free to add tonic or something else to taste – remember, you can add it but you can’t take it away.

Just give me a glass and the bottle..

2. This may sound like a stupid one – but it has to taste of gin

That juniper needs to be there somewhere. There are several products on the ever-growing market that well and truly push that to the limit, some in my opinion go past it.

Ooh lovely juniper

While it’s great to have a “key” or “signature” botanical or flavour, I still want to know I am drinking gin.

Is it time to re-define what “Gin” is?

3. The brand

Let’s be honest here – we buy with our eyes. If you are in a bar and see a stunning looking bottle on the top shelf – you want it. If you’re looking through a gin menu and see an exciting looking name – you want it.

We want the story of the gin and their core values as a company to be proudly displayed in their branding.

People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it.”

There are some outstanding bottles and designs out there, with a few that will disappoint on taste. So ensure you follow all three rules before adding that next gin to your collection!

So Rory is a bit spoilt for selection on his gin shelf…. but don’t those bottles look pretty?!

Rory is The Gin Lord online and in real life runs tasting and masterclasses of his favourite spirit. Check out his website dedicated to the love of gin here: www.theginlord.com