How to taste gin
A Ginny Pig Beginner’s Guide
Ahh, gin tasting – it’s not just sipping and saying "ooh, nice!". There’s a whole art to uncovering the flavours and botanicals that make gin so irresistibly unique. Whether you’re new to the world of gin or already a seasoned gin-thusiast, learning how to properly taste it will take your enjoyment to a whole new level. So, grab your glass and let’s dive into this gin-tasting journey, Ginny Pig style!
- 1. Prepping for the Perfect Gin Tasting
Before you even lift that glass, there are a few things to get sorted:
Choose Your Glass: Reach for a tulip-shaped glass or a small, clean wine glass. These shapes are great for capturing all those lovely gin aromas, so you can really sniff out the botanicals.
Room Temperature is Key: Taste your gin at room temp, not chilled! Cold gin hides the subtle flavours and aromas, and you want to capture every single one.
Cleanse Your Palate: Make sure your taste buds are ready for the gin goodness! Avoid strong flavours like coffee, spicy foods, or even heavily scented environments – they can mess with your ability to pick up on all the gin’s delicate notes. A plain cracker or a nibble of bread between tastings works wonders. - 2. The Ginny Pig Tasting Process
Ready to taste like a pro? Here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Look
First, take a good look at your gin. Most gins are clear, but you might come across some with a slight colour from botanicals or barrel aging.
Clarity: Gin is usually crystal clear. If it’s cloudy or has a haze, that might be a clue about the botanicals used. Personally I love a 'cloudy' gin, this means it has a lot of oil in it and therefore LOTS of flavour.
Viscosity: Give your glass a swirl and watch how the gin coats the sides. If it’s thick and forms “legs” (those streaks running down the glass), it could have a higher alcohol content or a touch of sweetness.
Step 2: Smell
Now for the sniff test, but here’s a Ginny Pig pro tip: Try smelling with your mouth slightly open! This helps you take in the aroma more fully, capturing all the layers.First Whiff: Hold the glass a few inches from your nose and take a gentle sniff. This gives you an overall sense of the gin’s aroma.Second Whiff: Bring the glass closer, keep your mouth slightly open, and inhale deeply. Try to pick out individual aromas. You’ll likely catch the juniper first, but pay attention to any hints of citrus, spices, herbs, or florals lurking in the background.Take your time here – your sense of smell plays a huge role in the tasting experience!
Step 3: Taste
Here comes the fun part – actually tasting the gin! Follow these steps to get the most out of each sip:
First Sip: Take a small sip and let the gin roll around your mouth. This first taste is just to let your palate adjust to the alcohol.
Second Sip: Now, this is where the magic happens. Take another sip, but this time, move the gin around your mouth, making sure it coats every taste bud. Allow the gin to touch every part of your tongue—front, sides, and back. This helps you experience the full range of flavours. Start with the juniper, then notice how the other botanicals reveal themselves. Is there a citrus zing? A warming spice? Or maybe a touch of floral sweetness?
Finish: After you swallow, focus on the finish. Does the flavour linger, or does it fade quickly? Is the aftertaste smooth or sharp? A long, complex finish is often a sign of a high-quality gin.
Step 4: Balance
Once you’ve tasted, consider how all the elements come together.
Botanical Balance: Does the juniper play nicely with the other botanicals, or is it hogging the spotlight? A good gin should let all its botanicals sing in harmony without any one dominating the others.
Alcohol Integration: The alcohol should be noticeable but not overpowering. A well-crafted gin will have a smooth alcohol integration, enhancing the flavours rather than distracting from them. - 3. Tasting Multiple Gins
If you’re tasting a few different gins (lucky you!), remember to cleanse your palate between each one with water or a plain cracker. Compare and contrast the aromas, flavours, and finishes to get a better sense of how different botanicals and distillation methods impact each gin’s profile. - 4. Gin in Cocktails – Let the Fun Begin!
Let’s be honest, gin really shines in cocktails. After you’ve tasted it neat, try mixing it into a simple G&T or martini. Notice how the gin’s profile evolves when paired with mixers and garnishes. Does a slice of lemon or a twist of lime bring out more of the citrus notes? Does tonic water make the botanicals sing? The possibilities are endless!
Enjoy the Ginny Pig Experience
Tasting gin is all about appreciating the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. By taking the time to look, smell, and taste, you’ll uncover layers of flavour in each sip. Whether you’re exploring one of our London Dry styles or a more adventurous contemorary gin, this method will increase your appreciation and love for gin.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your glass, get your gin, and let’s get tasting, Ginny Pig style!
Gin flights are a great way to experience the Ginny Pig range of gins.
Want to experience a tasting first hand? Drop into our Cellar Door!
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