The Gen on Gin

If gin is increasingly on your radar, it’s probably because it’s taken New Zealand by storm – and we’re not talking about the imported variety! Steadily, and increasingly so over the last 3 years, the Kiwi gin industry has been gathering momentum – to a point the country now boasts over thirty distilleries and a host of tasting outlets. What’s more, New Zealand distillers cover the whole range of gin production, from the traditional UK dry styles to herbal and fruit infusions. We even use gin to showcase some of our iconic Kiwi produce such as Manuka honey, and native kawakawa and peppery horopito, not to mention our pure, fresh Antipodean water. That’s a lot to be excited about – but wait, there’s more!

Each year, New Zealand boasts a wide range of gin events, so many in fact, you’re almost sure to find one in your area (or why not use it as an excuse for a break away form home?). In August, Christchurch’s ‘Gindulgence’ invites gin-enthusiasts to chat with distillers, sample tastings, and indulge in cocktails – all to the background of music and fine food. In September, Pauanui combines it’s public gin presentation with craft beer. But before you go anywhere, let’s get down to basics, and find out what gin actually is.

The secret ingredients

Gin is made from 3 ingredients (make it 4, if you count the water!). The alcohol component comes from distilling ethanol, a colourless liquid made by fermenting the sugars which occur naturally in (usually) grain. (Distilling is the process which concentrates the ethanol.)

The second secret ingredient is juniper berries. These resiny, piney little morsels give gin its distinctive flavour. Juniper berries grow naturally in cool, alpine regions, with most of the juniper berries for gin being grown in Eastern Europe (the most sought-after come from Macedonia and Albania). Juniper berries also bring a subtle, oily quality to gin.

As far as ingredients go, we could leave it there. However, gin drinkers have, in more recent times, come to enjoy their favourite drink with added natural flavours. These are of plant origin, and include a wide range of sources from fruit (think: oranges and lemons), herbs and spices (such as coriander, cumin, and cinnamon) and flowers (including rose and lavender).

Now that you’re armed with the basic info, let’s talk about tasting!

How to enjoy a gin tasting experience

Just as you would with wine, enjoy the aroma of different gins before you taste. For the best experience, make sure your gin is at room temperature. Ask yourself what aromas you can detect (if you’re tasting with friends, it can be fun to jot down your thoughts on flavour, and then share before you go onto the next step).

Next, take just the tiniest of sips, and make sure your tongue is well coated with the gin. Feel the texture (you’re looking for subtle oiliness imparted by the juniper berries). Think about the flavours – can you isolate any in particular? Try a little gin poured over ice – this will bring out even more flavours.

Mixing it up!

When you’ve checked out the basics, it’s time to have fun with a cocktail. For some exciting recipes, check out the internet, but why not head here, first, for some home grown Kiwi suggestions.

Gin is more than just a drink – it’s an experience. We hope you enjoy yours – in moderation, of course!