• So, What is Gin, Exactly?
  At its core, gin is a distilled spirit, with juniper berries being the star of the show. In fact, the very name ‘gin’ comes from “Geneva,” a nod to the Dutch word “jenever,” meaning juniper. But hold on—it’s not just about the juniper! Gin is a playground for botanicals, which means every bottle can offer a whole new sensory experience.
• Gin’s Whirlwind History
  Gin’s story begins back in the 17th century, in the Netherlands, where it was crafted as a medicinal tonic. A Dutch physician named Franciscus Sylvius is often given credit for inventing gin, but the juniper-infused drink, known as jenever, had been around for quite some time before he showed up.The English, of course, couldn’t resist gin’s charms and brought it back to their shores during the Eighty Years War. Thus began the notorious “Gin Craze” of the 18th century. Picture it: gin was everywhere, and the Brits were downing it like water—with some pretty wild results. Eventually, the government had to step in and, thankfully, gin went from a rowdy spirit to the sophisticated tipple we know today.
• How’s Gin Made?
  Now, here’s where things get really exciting, especially at Ginny Pig. While most gins start with a neutral spirit made from grains like barley, corn, or wheat, we like to do things a little differently. We use a grape-based spirit, sourced from the leftover grape skins and seeds (called "marc") from wineries right here in South Australia. Not only does this add a subtle smoothness to our gin, but it’s also a sustainable way to use what would otherwise be waste. It’s win-win!
  There are two main methods for making gin:
  Distilled Gin: This is where the magic happens. The base spirit—grape in our case—is redistilled with carefully chosen botanicals (including juniper, of course) in a copper pot still. As the vapour rises, it picks up all the beautiful flavours and aromas from the botanicals, creating a gin that’s rich, complex, and oh-so-aromatic.
  Compound Gin: This is the quicker, cheaper method where botanicals are infused into the base spirit without the distillation process. It’s simpler, but let’s be honest—it doesn’t have the same level of finesse as distilled gin. And finesse is what we’re all about!
• The Botanicals – The Real Heroes!
  While juniper steals the show, it’s the supporting cast of botanicals that gives gin its endless variety. Think coriander, angelica root, citrus peels, cardamom, and orris root. Each distiller has their secret mix, resulting in gins that can be floral, citrusy, spicy, or herbal. That’s why we love gin—it’s a bit of everything!
• Types of Gin – A World of Flavours
  Over the years, gin has blossomed into a range of styles, each with its own personality:
  London Dry Gin: Crisp, clean, and juniper-heavy. Despite the name, it doesn’t need to be made in London. It’s the classic G&T staple.
  Plymouth Gin: Made exclusively in Plymouth, England, this gin is a bit earthier and slightly sweeter than London Dry.
  Old Tom Gin: This one’s a throwback to the 18th century—sweeter and softer, it’s perfect for classic cocktails like a Tom Collins.
  Navy Strength Gin: Strong stuff, usually around 57% ABV. Originally made to keep gunpowder working even if it got soaked in gin. Because, you know, priorities.
  Contemporary Gin: Modern gins where juniper takes a step back and lets other botanicals shine. Expect experimental, bold flavours—ideal for the adventurous gin lover!

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