Your Cart is Empty
Gin is a very diverse spirit. It comes in many different types and variations, which is why it can be made in different ways. However, the production of gin can be roughly divided into 4 steps :
Table of contents
• • • •
Reading time approx. 1:20 min
The first step is also the most important step. Here, all the ingredients are mixed together and placed in the gin. Gin consists of just 3 main ingredients:
The neutral alcohol must be of agricultural origin and usually consists of grain or potatoes. Vodka is often used as a base.
The juniper berry belongs in every gin because it characterizes the taste and gives it a sweet, spicy and slightly bitter taste.
To give the gin its final touch, botanicals are added to the alcohol. These include berries, seeds, fruits, spices and herbs. These flavorings ensure that each gin has its own unique and individual character and explain why gins can taste so different. The various spices are left in the alcohol until the flavors have dissolved.
Good to know:
Juniper is not only excellent in gin. Many people also use the plant as a spice in cooking. Due to its distinctive aroma, juniper is also perfect for game dishes or sauerbraten.
In the second step, the water is separated from the alcohol. Since the alcohol evaporates faster than the water, only the aromatic vapors of the alcohol rise into the still. There, the vapor is cooled and liquefied again. You now have a high-proof gin that has an alcohol content of around 96% vol.
Did you know?
During this phase, the distiller must be particularly careful: both the first and the last drops that flow out of the still can spoil the gin with a musty note.
Unlike many other spirits, gin does not need to be stored. However, some types are stored for several weeks so that all the aromatic substances can combine well after distillation.
Did you know?
Most gins are stored in steel tanks. One exception is the so-called 'Reserve Gin'. This is stored in oak barrels to absorb the typical oak aromas.
In the last step, the gin must be diluted with low-lime water before it is bottled, otherwise it will have too high an alcohol content. After dilution, the gin must have an alcohol content of at least 37% vol. After that, it is simply decanted and labelled.
Did you know?
The most expensive gin in the world costs around €180,000. It is the Bombay Sapphire Revelation Gin. But the price is mainly due to its bottle. This consists of a valuable crystal, which is decorated with precious stones.
Is that possible? Sure, and we'll show you how it works here!
... Or go to the overview to learn more about the gin!
