Source: Ferran Grao Insa, AdobeStockDespite popular misconceptions, gin is not vodka. It is made from juniper, as well as other herbs, roots, and spices. This is what gives it its characteristic flavor. Today, we will tell you in detail about how to serve gin and what to drink it with!
How to Drink Gin Properly
Neat gin is served chilled, at 5-7 degrees Celsius. It is typically drunk in shots from small shot glasses or cordial glasses. If you want to savor the experience, serve the drink in a faceted glass with 4-5 ice cubes to slightly mellow its dryness. And if you prefer something milder, slowly enjoy gin cocktails, where the choice of glass depends on the specific recipe.
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What to Pair with Gin
Gin is very versatile and can be paired with almost anything. The choice is vast – from meats to fresh fruits or even sweets, so don't be afraid to experiment.
Cured Meats
The most popular snack for strong alcoholic beverages. This includes all kinds of ham, pork loin, sausages, and roulades. Jamón, prosciutto, salami, and cervelat are excellent choices.
Source: AdobeStockCheese
Another standard accompaniment for gin and beyond. We recommend mixing several different types of cheese with rich flavors to offer variety. You can also add breadsticks or savory crackers.
Vegetables
The best vegetable snacks are fresh, salted, and pickled cucumbers. Cucumber slices are even used in gin cocktails. Any other fresh vegetables, sweet pickled onions, and olives are also good.
Source: AdobeStockFish and Seafood
Smoked, salted, fried, baked – any fish is good. This also includes seafood appetizers: mussels, shrimp, caviar sandwiches, and even oysters to delight gourmets.
Fruits and Berries
An ideal solution if you want to serve a more dessert-like snack with gin. Choose fruits with a slight tartness, such as citrus and pineapple. Sweet berries like strawberries also work well. By the way, a fruit and berry platter pairs excellently with a cheese board!
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What to Mix Gin With
The pure taste of quality gin is very interesting and diverse, with various herbal notes. But it is a strong drink, starting from 37% ABV, and therefore not suitable for everyone. That's why it can be safely diluted or used in cocktails.
Tonic
This simple cocktail has been around for hundreds of years, and it was once even used for medicinal purposes. For variety, you can try tonics with different flavors and additives. Serve the finished gin and tonic with ice, a slice of lemon, or cucumber.
Source: AdobeStockJuice
Tart citrus juices are best for gin: lemon, orange, grapefruit. The herbal notes of the drink pair well with a slight acidity. However, sweet juices like mango, grape, or peach would not be very appropriate here.
Liqueurs and Bitters
Gin combines wonderfully with almost any citrus and herbal liqueurs or bitters. Cointreau, Campari, Aperol – choose according to your taste. Berry liqueurs like blackcurrant or blackberry also work well.
Soda
Soda water or mineral water is an easy way to reduce gin's strength while largely preserving its flavor. This is a good solution for those who don't like the bitter taste of tonic. And lovers of sweet drinks can use Coke, Sprite, or Seven Up.
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Simple sugar syrup is used in many gin cocktails if you want a sweeter drink. The amount of syrup should be adjusted to your taste.
Strong Alcohol
Gin is considered a neutral spirit, so it pairs well with almost any strong alcohol, especially vodka, white rum, and silver tequila. A good choice for lovers of strong cocktails or shots.
Source: AdobeStockVermouth
The rich taste of vermouth and the smooth taste of gin create another harmonious solution for cocktails. For more variety, you can also add liqueur, grenadine, or a little juice. And if you shake everything with egg white, you'll get a classic sour.
Cream
Gin is one of those spirits that makes excellent creamy cocktails. Chocolate, coffee, or cocoa liqueurs also fit harmoniously. For extra piquancy, add ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
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