The history of gin – A gin története

Gin has a fascinating history, full of alchemy, intrigue, and evolution. Its origins trace back to the early medicinal practices of the Middle Ages, when juniper – the key botanical in gin – was prized for its supposed healing properties. By the 16th century, the Dutch were producing a spirit known as genever, a juniper-flavored drink that was primarily used for medicinal purposes.

Fast forward to the 17th century, and genever gained popularity among English soldiers who were fighting in the Netherlands. They brought it back home, and over time, it evolved into what we now recognize as gin. In the 18th century, England saw the infamous Gin Craze, a period when cheap and widely available gin led to mass consumption, sometimes with disastrous social consequences. The government eventually intervened with various Gin Acts to curb excessive drinking.

By the 19th century, the quality of gin improved significantly, especially with the invention of the column still, which allowed for a cleaner, smoother spirit. This era also saw the rise of London Dry Gin, which became a benchmark for high-quality gin worldwide.

Gin had its golden age in the early 20th century, largely thanks to the cocktail boom. It was the foundation of iconic drinks like the Martini and the Negroni. Today, gin has experienced a renaissance, with craft distilleries experimenting with innovative botanicals and unique flavor profiles.