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5 reasons why gin may just be the world’s best spirit


Read time 2 Mins

Posted 13 Oct 2022

By
Rosa Nguyen


Three top gins from Australia, Italy and Japan

Gin is experiencing a worldwide boom, and these are just a few of the reasons why.

Gin: it’s the superstar spirit that’s literally on everyone’s lips. Originally used for medicinal purposes back in 1550 in its homeland of Holland, it’s now a truly global drink that’s made and enjoyed all around the world – from Australia to Africa, Italy to Japan – purely for pleasure. When we talk about X factor, we need to talk about gin. A truly exciting spirit, its secret lies in its versatility and ability to transform, whether it’s during the distilling process or at the bar, ready to be made into a tasty cocktail.

There are more than five reasons why we love gin, but let’s get started with the basics.

1. Gin is made for cocktails Gin is made by distilling neutral grains, such as wheat or barley, with juniper berries (the main ingredient) and other botanicals to create a distinct and aromatic spirit. And though it can be enjoyed neat, it was definitely made for cocktails. Why? It’s highly adaptable and can take on many different strengths, flavours and nuances. From a Gin & Tonic to a Tom Collins and Dirty Martini – the options are endless, and the range varied. Thanks to its vast flavour profile, it’s actually one of the most commonly used liquor in cocktails. Better together? You bet!
2. Local gin distilleries are leading the pack We love supporting locals and we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to top-notch Aussie distilleries. But what exactly makes them different? Well, for starters, the diversity and uniqueness of our very own backyard. From lemon myrtle to Tasmanian pepperberry, strawberry gum and wattleseed, the native ingredients and bush botanicals found in Aussie gins, teamed up with the inventive spirit of our homegrown distillers, conjure up something pretty special. We’re talking distinctive and award-winning craft gin with a strong sense of place.
3. Gin is weird, wacky and wonderful Gin is seriously versatile; it’s like a little magician that can transform at the drop of a hat. Well, not a drop of a hat, but you know what we mean. From new-wave colourful gins in bold hues of red, blue and violet, to experimental infusions layered in flavours and depth – think seaweed, cherry blossoms, black truffles and grenache – its many reincarnations cement its spot as one of the more inventive spirits. And for those with a richer palate (literally), edible 24 karat gold flakes can even be found 'flavouring' your gin.
4. Gin has gone globalTruly a spirit of the world, delicious and remarkable gins can be found in all corners of the globe – from Italy to South Africa, Japan, India, Argentina and, of course, Australia, just to name a few. And the beautiful thing is, each country adds its own unique twist during the distillation process to reinforce its terroir and transport gin lovers to another place. Whether it’s yuzu and green tea found in Japanese gin or hemp and Himalayan juniper infused in Indian gin, the secret lies in the local ingredients and native botanicals that reflect a strong sense of place and add to its individuality.
5. Gin is a spirit for all seasons Whether you enjoy a zesty Spritz in summer or a Gin Hot Toddy in winter, gin is an all-rounder that can cool you down or warm you right up. A four-seasons spirit that’s always in style, it’s the ultimate people pleaser no matter the weather.