I love gin, and always have done. Now, almost everyone’s joined the club. Gin has never been more popular with sales topping £2.6 billion in the UK during 2020.

Gone are the days of only having to choose between Gordons and Beefeater too. With Scotland alone producing over 200 brands, and bottles imported from all over the world, the budding gin connoisseur is spoilt for choice.

For those new to experience and looking to dabble, I’ve selected 5 of my favourites that are readily available in the shops. I’ll do another post sometime with my favourite hard to find tipples.

Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin

Gunpowder tea is the main botanical used in this premium quality offering. Added to that are cardamom, coriander, star anise and like angst others.

The taste is very much citrus-forward developing into a rich spicy-sweet finish. Garnish with a wedge of pink grapefruit.

Caroun

Distilled and produced in Scotland, this incredibly smooth tipple utilises local botanicals alongside the usual suspects. Bog myrtle, roanberries and dandelion leaf all combine to provide subtle, but unique, flavours.

It’s smooth. Very smooth. A slice of apple or cucumber work equally well with this drink.

Roku

At 47%, this Japanese gin from Osaka packs a powerful punch whist remaining smooth on the palate. Roku means six in Japanese and the gin has six uniquely Japanese botanicals including cherry blossom.

Tea, citron and pepper are at the front of the flavour profile backed up by a smoky wormwood finish. A slice of fresh apple is the ideal accompaniment.

House Of Elrick

Another Scottish gin, this one from a relatively new distillery outside Aberdeen. Scottish heather features prominently in the mix of locally sourced botanicals alongside sweet fennel and rose petals.

It has an incredibly well-balanced taste with definite floral accents developing to a soft, spicy finish. Add a premium tonic, orange zest and a slice of lemon or lime for best results.

Aviation

My final recommendation comes from Oregon in the USA. This gin is distilled with lavender, caraway seeds, orange and sasparilla in the botanical mix.

Except to taste dark juniper and earthy tones as the flavour develops to an Angelica root finish. It works incredibly well in cocktails, such as a martini, as well as on it’s own with a garnish of orange zest and rosemary.

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So why is gin allegedly good for you? Here’s 7 great reasons.

Its Main Ingredient Is A “Power Food”

Berries are the powerful superheroes of fruits. Juniper berries, in particular, are the main botanical ingredient in gin, and this also creates its most recognisable flavour. The berry — originally native to the rough and tumble landscape of Scotland — fights infections with its high levels of vitamin C and flavonoids, a group of plant chemicals present in nearly all vegetables and fruits.

Gin Will Fight That Pesky Cough

Juniper berries and plant botanicals have essential oils give well-made gin its classic smooth texture. This is the same texture that helps fight awful colds, but it’s important to not refrigerate gin because the oils and fragrances change and the helpful effects diminish. The berries in gin act as a natural medicine that contains some antioxidants, and anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties. Gin Can also be combined with various herbs and ginger to get you through that sore throat.

The Antioxidants Will Keep You Looking Young 

Lots of people already know that the antioxidants in berries can help with healthier-looking skin, but most don’t immediately think of these same antioxidants in the form of gin. Juniper berries are also loaded with the same antioxidants that promote the regeneration of cells within your body. Or should we say, “reGINeration.” Ba dum tss!

Prevents Bloating and UTIs

Gin could help fight bloating and urinary tract infections. This is because juniper berries are a diuretic, and it increases your trips to the bathroom and, in effect, prevent water retention. When you urinate more often, toxins and bacteria that are linked to infections are flushed out and that keeps you healthy.

It Can Make You Immortal

Okay, maybe not “immortal” but gin has the potential to extend your lifespan. This doesn’t mean you should chug the next bottle of gin you come into contact with; remember that moderation is always key with alcohol. As you age, gin could assist in blood circulation, which is key for a longer life. And remember those flavonoids we mentioned earlier? Well, they help in reducing the number of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders, according to the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health.

The Calories Don’t Add Up Too Fast

Worried about those love handles getting a little too easy to grip? Gin is one of the most calorie-friendly spirits on the market. You can spare 97 calories per shot, right? Just keep it neat and enjoy the added health benefits while you’re at it.

Need An Assist With Digestion?

Gin has you covered, once again. The bitters used to create gin boost stomach acid and digestive enzymes in your digestive system. This helps break down that gigantic combo meal you told yourself you wouldn’t have anymore. Plus, gins aids against painful heartburn, which is a huge plus after a large meal.

Attention gin lovers: Although gin has its health benefits, it’s imperative that you seek professional medical advice from your physician before consuming any alcohol-based beverages.

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The Gin Is In is a great site for discovering great find and delving into the flavour profiles and back stories.
Oh, one more thing… Always use a good tonic water sparingly. There’s nothing worse than drowning a good gin in cheap tonic.

Cheers!