Gin Lovers Unite!

[SWTroopers]

I came to terms with booze in the school of scotch. But I find myself always reaching for gin. Gin seems to have experienced a real rebirth as of late, with several small batch gins growing in popularity. So, if you love gin, what's your favorite and how do you take it?

I'll start. Right now, I'm drinking Magellan on the rocks with a splash of soda and a twist of lime. This gin is hard to find, but well worth the trouble. At first the faint blue color was a turn-off, as I thought it was a trendy gimmick. But now it's my favorite gin. Turns out the blue color is a by-product of the iris root. It's heavy on the cloves with an afterbite of juniper. I find with a splash of soda, it follows with a sweet aftertaste of corriander. When it comes to a classic martini, I usually reach for Beefeater or Bombay.

So how about you take your gin? Anyone tried Distillery 209? I can't find it here in Texas, so I need your opinions!

Marc

[Samsa]

I have not the budget to be a connoisseur of anything, but gin has always been the only spirit that I really like. When I buy it, I buy Beefeater, as it's on the cheap side. I drink it with tonic water and ice.

Too bad there's no gin in the house at the moment, I could go for one right now...

[60Years2Late]

Bombay. It's not bottom shelf, and it tastes good enough to suit my fancy. Not a big Gin drinker though. I like it well enough, but bourbon just keeps calling my name. You know how it goes when you get drunk and just order your usual.

[rcinlv]

Miller's. Wellbourne Strength. With Tonic, Lime and Ice. Best drink ever in the blazing heat. And I have yet to contract malaria!

CHEERS,

RC

[pretty faythe]

I'm not much of a drinker, but my mayor could join you. A few years ago a group of school kids asked what he'd like to have with him if stranded on a deserted island....his answer, a bottle of gin. lol

[SWTroopers]

I have not the budget to be a connoisseur of anything, but gin has always been the only spirit that I really like. When I buy it, I buy Beefeater, as it's on the cheap side. I drink it with tonic water and ice.

Too bad there's no gin in the house at the moment, I could go for one right now...

Ya' know, Beefeaters is much maligned, but a solid gin. Cheers!

[SWTroopers]

Miller's. Wellbourne Strength. With Tonic, Lime and Ice. Best drink ever in the blazing heat. And I have yet to contract malaria!

CHEERS,

RC

Hmm, that's one I've not heard of. I shall keep my ear to the ground for that one with an endorsement like that!

Marc

[BegintheBeguine]

Cheap vodka is one thing, cheap gin is quite another. Charcoal is charcoal so I buy the exclusive Military Special vodka at the little PX but since they don't carry Bombay Sapphire I buy Gilbey's gin. For cheap, to have at home. When I'm out I order Bombay Sapphire or Beefeaters, or if that's not around Tanqueray if I must but I admit it's been a few years since I've had to have a Tanqueray. Well, I have gone out of my way to drink Plymouth, now that I think about it. :) Where can I get Boodle's, anyone?

[Absinthe_1900]

I usually drink Junipero Gin, if I'm not drinking something green. ;)
http://www.anchorbrewing.com/about_us/junipero.htm

[Diamondback]

Cheap vodka is one thing, cheap gin is quite another. Charcoal is charcoal so I buy the exclusive Military Special vodka at the little PX...

Military Special, hmmm... I read a funny story involving that stuff and cooking with MRE's once... Should I PM the link, Ms. Ashley? (It can be a little crude in spots, not quite suitable for posting here.)

As for gin, brand probably doesn't matter much for me, since I only drink it as part of a Collins or gimlet anyway... I just pre-tip the bartender a little and trust them to give me what they think's the good stuff. (This method hasn't failed me yet, but that may just be me.)

[FedoraGent]

A couple of years ago, my bartender friend switched me from Vodka to Gin. It was not an easy transition as I had many mixed drinks that were vodka in nature. However, after a couple of rounds with gin...I found that I was happy with it's taste. What is my gin of choice you ask? Well, Boodles of course!

Oh, and Plymouth is not bad either. Those are the only two that I really like.

FG.

[cookie]

Tanqueray - in the Green Bottle followed by Bombay Sapphire.

[Shaul-Ike Cohen]

Some of my limited experiences of brands are:

Bombay Sapphire: bit feeblish, but excellent for Martinis (even though I use more vermouth than today's standard)

Plymouth Navy Strength: IIRC, I liked that very much indeed, including for Martinis

Hendrick's: I prefer continental discounter-supermarket own brands. It's just boring and a bit weird - not even enough to be interesting at least.

Tanqueray Ten and Beefeaters Crown Jewel: both rather good, in fact, clearly stronger flavours than their regular lines and still clearly gin, not genever or the like. Also good for Gimlets G&T etc., though in my opinion a flavour overkill for Martinis.

I tried some others, in particular the regular Beefeaters and Tanqueray - both absolutely fine on their own and in mixed drinks. Gordon's was good, too, I think, though I don't remember it exactly - been some time since I last tried it.

What I'd like to try yet, is Bombay "not Sapphire" Gin,but it's hard to get and probably more expensive.

[Caleb Moore]

My drink of choice these days is a Bombay Sapphire, lime, ice and diet tonic water. Tanqueray will also do nicely.
After an ill-advised bout with a bottle of gin as a youth (I lost the battle...) I steered clear of the stuff for years, but dared to try it again recently and fell in love with it.

[Spitfire]

It's got to be Gordons!

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/Parup_2006/gin.jpg

[BegintheBeguine]

I knew there was one more brand I liked, it is Gordon's. I'm no snob, though. I don't know what is in my happy hour martini (for $2.50 I don't want to know), just that it hits the spot.
Thanks for your offer Diamondback but I suspect that story will also fall under the category of something I'd rather not know, so no thanks. ;)

[John in Covina]

My fav's:

Tanquerey
Tanquerey 10
and Anchor's Junepiero
Saphire (Bombay?)

I heard that Plymouth is suppose to be a pretty fabulous gin.

[LocktownDog]

If I don't have any more oude jenevers that a friend sends me from Holland (along with Troost Slices pipe tobacco ... mmmm), then I prefer Plymouth (hard to find in my area) followed by Bombay Dry and Beefeaters.

Funny. Just the other night I stayed after work (I get off at midnight most nights) and sat down at the bar for a martini. I work with all the bartenders there and figure they know what they're doing. I think I was wrong. lol Joe had just taken over the shift from Vanessa (the latter certainly fills out the uniform better than the former!) and asked me what I wanted. I said "Martini ... dry ... two olives." He brought it to me a minute or so later. Looked alright. Not nearly as cold as I usually like, but that's okay. Took a sip ... :eek: . Vodka. He used vodka. He apologized and told me that nobody asks for gin in their martinis anymore and haven't for years. So he always assumes vodka now. Dear lord ... what has happened to this country?!? The next one he made was nearly perfect though. I just have to remember to say "Martini ... gin ... cold ... two olives." In fact, maybe I'll put that on a business card ... or my gravestone.

Richard

[Fletch]

Lost Wages Mayor Oscar Goodman (http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/lv-ed/2005/mar/02/518378833.html) says that the one thing - the ONE thing - he would want with him on a desert island is Bombay Sapphire.

Is it that good neat? :rolleyes:

[Absinthe_1900]

Gin discussion:

http://wormwoodsociety.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=2637

[rcinlv]

Interestingly, until Oscar signed and endorsement agreement with Bombay Sapphire (I believe it is around $150,00 a year, paid to the city) the only gin he would drink was Beefeaters.

Cheers,

RC

[K.D. Lightner]

Boodles is my favorite, also, a cheaper one but tasty for the kind of martini I like: Seagram's Extra Dry Lime Twisted Gin.

I agree Locktowndog. I have to specify gin for my martini or I will get vodka in almost any bar I am in. At least the waitress at a local restaurant was savy enough to ask me if I wanted vodka or gin when I once failed to specify. Thank goodness she asked.

I don't really consider a vodka martini to be a"real" martini, anymore than those apple and lemon concoctions they make nowadays. It's in a martini glass, that's all.

karol

[jgilbert]

In the summer, by the grill, there is nothing better than a Tanqueray and tonic.

[Shaul-Ike Cohen]

Just last week, I asked for a Gimlet - actually asked, not ordered, because they didn't have it on the menu. The waiter wondered "Er, you mean a Vodka Gimlet?" First I was happy, because that seemed to indicate they had some Rose's lime juice somewhere, and I had spotted a bottle of Bombay Sapphire already. So, without starting a discussion, I replied "No, a gin gimlet," only to learn they didn't have any lime juice after all, but this - pointing to something on the menu - was very similar to a gimlet. "This" was some premixed alcopop consisting of sugar, bubbles, lemon flavour and vodka…

[The Reno Kid]

I like Bombay (regular, not Sapphire). For me, the perfect Martini cosists of 4 parts Bombay gin to 1 part Martini & Rossi dry vermouth, shaken and served with an olive (or two). Yummy!:icon_smil

[dostacos]

I usually don't drink when I am out and about, however at the Queen Mary I won't be driving so I might just try a martini cause. then back to either black and tans

[Fletch]

I don't really consider a vodka martini to be a"real" martini, anymore than those apple and lemon concoctions they make nowadays. It's in a martini glass, that's all.Uh, 'scuse me ma'am, but I can't let such an analogy go unchallenged.

The fruity-sweety-goofy potations add extraneous flavorings and other components. The use of vodka in place of gin adds no such frippery. In fact it subtracts one thing: the juniper flavoring found in gin.

A simple vodkatini may not be purist, but it certainly is pure. Besides, I happen to find them quite refreshing in a minimalist, Nordic sort of way. Up with a twist, please.

[Feraud]

I keep forgetting to get to the liquor store and have been nursing a bottle of Bombay.
Try this gin lovers - 1.25 oz. gin, .25 grenadine, .75 lemon juice, 1 egg white. Shake with ice and strain into glass...Clover Club.

[Miss Neecerie]

all this gin talk is making me thirsty...


darn you all!


D....who might need to go make a G&T or a white lady or something now...

[Feraud]

I am currently searching the house for lemons...

[Miss Neecerie]

I am currently searching the house for lemons...


You tried under the sofa cushions? everything ends up there....

[Feraud]

You tried under the sofa cushions? everything ends up there.... ..found some random cufflinks...

[Miss Neecerie]

..found some random cufflinks...


at least the bartender will now be well attired...

[Feraud]

at least the bartender will now be well attired... For once!

[FedoraGent]

I had a thought gang, why not have a gin drink for all of us together at the QM? We can all think of a gin cocktail that we like and order it on the QM. I hope they have more than just well gin. That would be a greek tragedy.

FG.

[Smithy]

My grandparents were all English and so gin appreciation is big in my family.

I like the dry stuff and up until recently it was Tanqueray which got my vote, but recently I tried Cadenhead's Old Raj and this stuff is THE BEST gin I have ever tasted. Dry as the Sahara and beautiful tasting. Unusually it is not clear but has a slightly yellowish tinge due to a very small amount of saffron added.

It's strong too 50% alcohol (100 proof) and with a brilliant drawing of an old kohai on the bottle. I wouldn't buy any other gin now.

http://la.foodblogging.com/wp-content/OldRaj003shrunk.JPG

[Brad Bowers]

Ah, but it's been a gimlet-soaked summer!:)

I had been drinking Plymouth for a while, but lately I've been enjoying Broker's Gin. Nice botanicals, and I love their hat theme. What's not to like about a bottle of gin that admonishes "Don't forget your hat!"

Brad

[Fletch]

If I drink too much gin, my hat won't fit. :confused:

[dhermann1]

Can't say that I drink enough gin to be an expert, but when I want a Gin and Tonic it better be GIN. Likewise on those rare occasions when I make myself a martini, it has to be gin.
Little known gin fact: It's good for period cramps. It's true, ladies. It's the juniper. Works like a charm. I've seen it work. On a couple of occasions I mixed up a G&T for my wife and she swore by it.

[Shaul-Ike Cohen]

I've seen it work. On a couple of occasions I mixed up a G&T for my wife and she swore by it.

Well, I've seen men curse, too, when they had one too many.:eusa_doh:

[lindylady]

I've recently started drinking gin, so the only brand I knew to buy was Tanqueray. I bought their new gin concoction, Rangpur, with the lime flavoring. I like it in my favorite cocktails. Is this a decent gin? Purists, forgive me if I don't drink it straight. I'm unaccustomed to the strong flavor of gin. :o

[ShortClara]

I've never even had a vodka martini... my drink of choice...

Bombay Sapphire martini
Very dry
Very dirty
2-3 olives

I just want the vermouth bottle waved over the glass to say hello :)

My mother got me this tiny little spray bottle for vermouth - the tiniest of spritzes only and that's it! Mmmmmmmm

[K.D. Lightner]

Wow, I've got some new gins to try out.

Do they sell Old Raj in the U.S. Does anyone know?

Lindylady: Also, did not know that Tanqueray makes a gin with lime in it. Let us know how it tastes. If you like it, I will have to give it a try. I've only had extra-dry Seagrams with lime.

karol

[ClayBob]

Bombay Sapphire Straight Up Martini w/two olives, lemon, and once in a while (if i haven't eaten) a cocktail onion. :essen:

[Smithy]

Do they sell Old Raj in the U.S. Does anyone know?


I'm sure someone must import it. I'll warn you it's not particularly cheap but honestly, I wouldn't buy another type of gin now, to me it's that good.

Just the thing for a burra peg!

[K.D. Lightner]

I'd like to find it (Old Raj), price won't bother me unless it is $40 or more. I am always willing to try a new gin (or whiskey).

Question: has anyone here ever had a martini with caperberries in it? I took a class on martini making in San Diego at Tupelo's some years ago and the head bartender there, who taught the class, turned us on to caperberries, as well as olives and onion.

A caperberry is a hybrid cross between an olive and a caper. I like them in my martinis when I can find them.

Shane, the bartender there used, exclusively, Vodka -- some interesting brands, although I am not a fan of vodka. He did make me a special vodka/gin mix which wasn't bad at all. I think he used Skye vodka.

And I have to concede that, although I may be disdainful of the many sweet tasting martinis out there (apple, lemon, etc.), I was quite fond of the chocolate martini. Not sure it is really a martini, either, but boy was it some wild dessert!

karol

[olive bleu]

My love affair with Gin began when I had my very first martini. It was made with Bombay Sapphire, and it was perfect-very dry,3 olives and very cold.

Gin has been my spirit of choice ever since. If I don't want to go through the trouble of making a martini, and cannot persuade anyone to make it for me, I will just drink it on the rocks.no lemon.no tonic.

[SWTroopers]

I had a thought gang, why not have a gin drink for all of us together at the QM? We can all think of a gin cocktail that we like and order it on the QM. I hope they have more than just well gin. That would be a greek tragedy.

FG.

My vote is for an Aviation. Or maybe a Gimlet.

Folks, you can find Old Raj here:
http://www.chelseawinevault.com/product_info.php?cPath=222_229&products_id=13063&osCsid=2f7bf86084f571e9

Price $48 a bottle. A little high, but within the realm of attainability. I'll try it soon, but for now with stick with Magellan!

Marc

[4drymartinis]

Beefeater and Dry Bombay: My favorite.
Bombay Saphire: What I get if the bartender doesnt stock the first two.
No. 209: Liquor store guy said I'd love it, I didn't care for it.
Boodles: Considering all the hype, I found the taste to be a little muddled.
Tanqueray: The standard in this town, but I find it a bit too citrusy for my taste(s)
New Amsterdam: Bleech!

[olive bleu]

Gin is my drink of choice, although I admit to not having tried a lot of different kinds. About 8 years ago, I had Gin for the first time(Bombay Sapphire) and was instantly smitten. It was in a perfect( to my mind), beautiful :) ,dry martini. If I am feeling festive I will make myself one , or try to coerce someone into making it for me. Generally though, I just drink it on the rocks.

[zaika]

Give me a reaper and a gang of gin.
Play me cause I'm in my sin.
Blame me cause I'm full of gin.

:D

for me, i'm happy with good old bombay sapphire and tonic on the rocks with a twist of lime and a sprig of mint. it really quenches my thirst during the summer.

[Mike in Seattle]

My drink of choice these days is a Bombay Sapphire, lime, ice and diet tonic water. Tanqueray will also do nicely.
After an ill-advised bout with a bottle of gin as a youth (I lost the battle...) I steered clear of the stuff for years, but dared to try it again recently and fell in love with it.

You might like Tanqueray Ranchipur - very strong lime flavor to it. I had some at friends and didn't like it in a martini at all, but others thought it would be great during the summer with tonic & ice.

[Shaul-Ike Cohen]

Old Raj - tried it meanwhile, and I really like it.

Bombay non-Sapphire - does anyone happen to know where on earth (rather literally, I'm afraid) one can get it?

Plymouth Navy Strength - to my mild elation, it seems they've relaunched it, even though in a less charming bottle, like with the "Original Strength" variety some time before.

(Now proceeding to mix a Naval, of Plymouth Original and Cinzano Rosso. They were out of kosher dry vermouth, and I need what I have for when my in-laws will come and see us next Sunday, so I thought I'd give the sweeter variety a chance after all.)

[carebear]

I got turned onto the Tanqueray Rangpur (the lime infused) in June, I currently am the only one drinking it at my bar. I have to have gone through at least a couple cases by now.

[K.D. Lightner]

Have any of you tried the Seagram's Extra Dry that has lime added to it? You can't find it everywhere, it is my favorite, though I also like others, such as Boodles.

I will have to try the lime infused Tanqueray. Hope I can find it here. Is it extra dry?

karol

[scotrace]

Thanks to this thread, I have a Bombay (regular) martini in front of me. Wonderful!

(Shaul = my local likka sto has it right next to the sapphire stuff)

[LocktownDog]

For some reason, my martinis lately have had jalapeno stuffed olives in them. I don't know how that started, but I am really enjoying it. :o

Richard

[olive bleu]

Gin is my drink of choice, although I admit to not having tried a lot of different kinds. About 8 years ago, I had Gin for the first time(Bombay Sapphire) and was instantly smitten. It was in a perfect( to my mind), beautiful :) ,dry martini. If I am feeling festive I will make myself one , or try to coerce someone into making it for me. Generally though, I just drink it on the rocks.

Wha??
Just realized i said the exact same thing in this very thread,exactly 3 months ago.
Either I have had one too many, or I need another round.;)

[EvenOdd]

I know what makes it a dry martini, but what makes it a dry gin?

I'm more of a beer person, but if I'm drinking liquor, it's usually a whisky. When I aim for a cocktail, I like a dirty martini not too dry. I like 3 part gin, 1 part vermouth, little water if the ice doesn't melt enough. Throw in two olives and a little olive brine.

I've only had Bombay Sapphire. I aim to expand my selection a bit now.

[Shaul-Ike Cohen]

I know what makes it a dry martini […] I like a dirty martini not too dry.

I don't want to be patronising, particularly as your taste in martinis is very good (read: close to mine ;) ), but there are two meanings of dry martini.

The original meaning is a martini made with dry vermouth, as opposed to sweet vermouth. The ratio of vermouth and gin doesn't have anything to do with it, in fact much more vermouth was usually added than today.

Nowadays, dry is used to indicate a higher level of alcohol, that is more gin. Or typically v*dka, I suppose. Free country and all that. And the more alcohol, the more of a man you are, so "dry" martinis with v*dka from the freezer to avoid the diluting ice, and with a stupid Churchillean hint of vermouth from the duster seem to be considered hip. The giant olives in the giant glasses are mainly there to keep the indispensible umbrellas. But I digress.

The other common misunderstanding (historically, that is - language changes!) is the one about the Perfect Martini. Whatever the perfect martini is for me, a Perfect, or Perfect Martini is one that has the same amount of dry and sweet martini (plus the gin and often a dash of Angostura).

[Decodence]

Tanq Ten for martinis
Tanq for G&Ts
Seagram's when I'm broke.

[Lee M Roberts]

Mother's Ruin! Drink of the gods! My favourite drink by far.

Not too picky on the brand as the juniper berries make even the cheapest I've tried palatable.

A small squeeze of lemon, a bit of ice and some super cool Indian Tonic Water. Great stuff!

[MB5]

Bombay non-Sapphire - does anyone happen to know where on earth (rather literally, I'm afraid) one can get it?


My Bashas' grocery store carries it in Northern Arizona.

[EvenOdd]

I don't want to be patronising, particularly as your taste in martinis is very good (read: close to mine ;) ), but there are two meanings of dry martini.

The original meaning is a martini made with dry vermouth, as opposed to sweet vermouth. The ratio of vermouth and gin doesn't have anything to do with it, in fact much more vermouth was usually added than today.

Nowadays, dry is used to indicate a higher level of alcohol, that is more gin. Or typically v*dka, I suppose. Free country and all that. And the more alcohol, the more of a man you are, so "dry" martinis with v*dka from the freezer to avoid the diluting ice, and with a stupid Churchillean hint of vermouth from the duster seem to be considered hip. The giant olives in the giant glasses are mainly there to keep the indispensible umbrellas. But I digress.

The other common misunderstanding (historically, that is - language changes!) is the one about the Perfect Martini. Whatever the perfect martini is for me, a Perfect, or Perfect Martini is one that has the same amount of dry and sweet martini (plus the gin and often a dash of Angostura).

I'm a youngster, so I've always known 'dry' as meaning more manly, I mean, more alcoholic. I didn't think of it meaning which vermouth. And speaking of dry and sweet vermouth, I need to try it with sweet vermouth, and perhaps with a bit of both as "Perfect".

[The Reno Kid]

The original meaning is a martini made with dry vermouth, as opposed to sweet vermouth. The ratio of vermouth and gin doesn't have anything to do with it, in fact much more vermouth was usually added than today...

...The other common misunderstanding (historically, that is - language changes!) is the one about the Perfect Martini. Whatever the perfect martini is for me, a Perfect, or Perfect Martini is one that has the same amount of dry and sweet martini (plus the gin and often a dash of Angostura).

Maybe I don't get out enough. I've been drinking martinis for more years than I can comfortably admit and I swear to God, I have never even heard of a martini made with anything but dry vermouth.[huh] Is it just me?

[CharlesB]

Hendricks or bombay sapphire with a thin slice of cucumber in it

[Shaul-Ike Cohen]

Hendricks or bombay sapphire with a thin slice of cucumber in it

If you use Bombay Sapphire, you can even forgo the cucumber, as this brand has a taste of its own.;)

[scotrace]

Bombay, it seems, makes me royally grouchy.

[BegintheBeguine]

Uh oh. Sounds ominous. Bombay or Bambay Sapphire, scotrace?
I was drinking Gilbey's but splurged on Bombay Sapphire and have just cracked that bottle open. I'm always up for trying new tastes, however.
Over Thanksgiving, my brother insisted on making my sister a Martini with no vermouth, mentioning Churchill. That's just cold gin, which to me is a KISS song. My sister had me re-make the beverage to her liking.

[scotrace]

The regular stuff. Tastes good though.

[CharlesB]

CUCUMBER FOR THE WIN!

[LocktownDog]

Maybe I don't get out enough. I've been drinking martinis for more years than I can comfortably admit and I swear to God, I have never even heard of a martini made with anything but dry vermouth.[huh] Is it just me?

Its not just you. I couldn't even fathom a martini made with sweet vermouth.

Richard

[Mojito]

We had a bit of an 'incident' with one of the gin bottles today. My sister and her kids are staying with us for a couple of weeks prior to moving over to Singapore. My not-quite-four year-old niece is a real action bundle. We were bemused to discover my huge, heavy granite mortar and pestle (usually used for crushing ice and muddling) had somehow been moved onto the floor, and were filled with a clear liquid. I assumed water, but a sniff revealed it was gin.

I was relieved to find it was the bottle of Gordons and not the Bombay Sapphire or Tanquery that she'd emptied into it!

[Absinthe_1900]

Its not just you. I couldn't even fathom a martini made with sweet vermouth.

Richard

You really would have hated the earliest incarnation of the Martini, as it was made with Old Tom Gin, and Italian Sweet Vermouth.

The term Dry Martini came about when the cocktail was modified to use French Dry Vermouth, and English style Gin, with a dash of Orange Bitters.

Unfortunately the term Dry Martini has morphed into a cold glass of shaken Gin in these modern times. :rage:

[Fletch]

Nowadays, dry is used to indicate a higher level of alcohol, that is more gin. Or typically v*dka, I suppose. Free country and all that.I always agree with purists that a martini with vodka is not a martini - it's a vodka martini. (Or vodkatini.)


And the more alcohol, the more of a man you are, so "dry" martinis with v*dka from the freezer to avoid the diluting iceA better reason for the freezer is so the drink is colder. 0°F booze splashed with a modest amount of mixer has to be colder than room temperature booze and mixer agitated with 0° ice.

Anybody put their gin in the freezer? Or does the juniper bruise there, too?

[Feraud]

I always thought the Martini was gin, vermouth (sweet or dry) and bitters stirred with ice. All else is a Martini spinoff.



And the more alcohol, the more of a man you are, so "dry" martinis with v*dka from the freezer to avoid the diluting ice, and with a stupid Churchillean hint of vermouth from the duster seem to be considered hip.
I assume the more alcohol/manly you are comment is a joke but... the ice is not to dilute the drink but chill it. The addition of the melted ice water "opens" up the flavors. 2 oz of gin is still 2 ounces.. stirring with ice does not dilute a drink to undrinkable (less manly ;)) proportions.

[Patrick Murtha]

...I've been enjoying Broker's Gin. Nice botanicals, and I love their hat theme. What's not to like about a bottle of gin that admonishes "Don't forget your hat!"

I quite agree; it's an adorable bottle with its hat cap, and the gin inside isn't bad either. I'm quite fond of Citadelle as well; it's silky smooth and makes a lovely gin-and-tonic.

Really, most name brand gins bring me pleasure. There's much quality in the category.

[Mike in Seattle]

I've kept the gin in the freezer for ages, since someone suggested it as THE way to be able to whip up an icy cold martini without ice diluting it. It makes the gin just slightly thicker as well. But there are those who also say a small amount of water from the melting ice is an integral part of the mix. The big economy size bottles are on the bar and I use those to refill the smaller bottles in the freezer (various friends prefer Boodles, Tangueray, Bombay plain, Bombay Sapphire, plus there's a Absolut Citron and plain for those who prefer a kanagroo to a true martini).

[Emmababy]

I take it everywhich way

It's my favourite drink ever, I adore it.

[Boodles]

Boodles, from which I pirated my name for this forum, Beefeaters, Plymounth, and either of the Bombay versions are all quite nice gin. If you have not tried Gordon's in a long while, especially if you mix gin, you owe it to Bogey to fetch yourself a jar. For many of us who best know Commander Bond from the movies, we missed the drink Flemming describes for Bond. As opposed to the well known Smironff vodka martini the written Bond actually more often went for what was probably a Vesper, 2 gin, 1 vodka and 1/2 Lillet. Most excellent.

[Mojito]

Bombay Sapphire and Tanqueray No. Ten.

If I'm drinking with someone who doesn't want to pfaff around, then it's a G&T. My favourite drink, however, is a White Lady. And on the rare occasions when I feel like something sweet and fruity, a Singapore Sling (have to cut down on all the sweet juice that most modern recipes call for, though).

I like rum, vodka and tequila on the rocks, but when I tried to drink gin straight up in honour of Louise Brooks' Hundredth Birthday (after all, that's how she drank it) I found it was a taste I had yet to acquire.

[Lola Getz]

I've never met a gin I didn't really like, but I do like Hendricks with a cucumber spear. Very smooth. Almost anything will do in a gin & tonic, as I'm a lime fanatic.

I briefly dabbled into martinis with sweet vermouth and thought they were *very* good...until it felt as though my stomach lining was a'flame. That was the end of the affair, I'm afraid.

[FedoraGent]

I've never met a gin I didn't really like...
I love it, neither did I. Tonight, it's a Plymouth night.

FG.

[Mike in Seattle]

I've never met a gin I didn't really like, but I do like Hendricks with a cucumber spear. Very smooth. Almost anything will do in a gin & tonic, as I'm a lime fanatic.

If you like lime, you might try some Tangueray Rangpur. It REALLY has a lime taste to it. Here in Washington, the liquor stores are state-owned & operated, and you can also buy the little airplane-sized bottles to try something new before buying a larger bottle. A friend & I make a run up the road one evening, saw those and bought a couple sampler size. She really liked it, I thought it was too much lime, especially in a Martini but for a G&T in the summer, if that's your thing, it might be something to try out. But it was a real lime taste - not like a chemically-created reconstituted lime flavor.

[Lola Getz]

I'll have to look for that, Mike. Sounds like it's right up my alley!

I hate when I order my drink and they put this tiny little anorexic lime in--come on, I can take it.
I'll have to look for Plymouth as well. I don't think I've ever seen it at my local BevMo! store. Actually, their selection is skinny on the gin, heavy on the vodkas and tequilas. I should complain. :p

[SuffragetteCity]

I like Gordon's, often with Sprite. Even cheap gin is better than expensive vodka, in my opinion.

[Curt Dawson]

I love it, neither did I. Tonight, it's a Plymouth night.

FG.
I am to poor to be pickey about my gin.Love a good 10 t0 1 gin to dry vermoth martii.

[MissHuff]

My drink of choice on most occasions is a Bombay Sapphire Gimlet. Sometimes rocks.

[Alex Oviatt]

Stir with ice and strain
1 dash Angostura bitters.
1 dash orange bitters.
1 teaspoonful lime juice. (4 dashes)
1/3 curacao. (1 oz, 3 cl, 1/4 gills)
2/3 dry gin. (2 oz, 6 cl, 1/2 gills)
Mix and strain into cocktail glass.

NB This is even better when made with the previously mentioned Tanqueray Rangpur gin. Fee Brothers does a nice orange bitters and I tend to use Peychaud's instead of Angastura. Enjoy! No offense to Sidecars and Manhattans, by the way......

[Bill Taylor]

Tanqueray for Martinis or gin on the rocks. Olives only. If onions are used it is a Gibson, not a Martini.
Dry Bombay if mixing with tonic or such.
Cheap gin is fine if nothing else is available. It's better than no gin at all.

Used to drink a gin called Booards, but it is mostly not available in the US anymore. Has a very pronounced juniper berry flavor and is wonderful for martinis.

I like a classic martini (a dry martini 3 to 1 DRY Vermouth). If I want a glass of gin, then I will specify a glass of gin, (rather than specify a very very dry martini. (which is a glass of gin).

Also, should be stirred, minimum ice cubes, never crushed ice and stirred carelully, Shaking bruises the gin. An old pro bartender from the old SF Union Square Plaza Bar (hotel long gone now) once said shaking martinis was introduced by lazy harried bartenders who didn't want to take the time to stir. It's faster to shake it.

Bill

[rumblefish]

Also, should be stirred, minimum ice cubes, never crushed ice and stirred carelully, Shaking bruises the gin. An old pro bartender from the old SF Union Square Plaza Bar (hotel long gone now) once said shaking martinis was introduced by lazy harried bartenders who didn't want to take the time to stir. It's faster to shake it.

Bill
AMEN! I couldn't agree more.

A stirred Martini will always be thick and viscous, whereas shaking it leaves it sort of effevescent and with bits of ice. You can see when a properly stirred Martini is poured, it should look like glycerine or clear oil.

Stirring, I think, can make as much difference as what gin you use if not more.

[Warbaby]

I don't drink much anymore, but when I do, it's gin. I've always been a bit mystified by the Martini mistique - I don't understand why anyone would want to mess up a good gin with cheap wine and vegetables. I drink my gin straight, chilled, no ice. And for me, the only gin worth drinking is Bols Z.O. (zeer oude) Jenever from Holland. It's exquisite stuff, smooth as silk, comparable to a fine brandy.

[Shaul-Ike Cohen]

A stirred Martini will always be thick and viscous, whereas shaking it leaves it sort of effevescent and with bits of ice. You can see when a properly stirred Martini is poured, it should look like glycerine or clear oil.

Stirring, I think, can make as much difference as what gin you use if not more.

This is simply incorrect, I'm afraid. The only difference is in looks right after you shake it. A very short time afterwards, it clears again and you won't see a difference, let alone taste one.

Also, the amount of dissolved ice isn't to be kept at minimum at all cost - a classic martini includes the bit of ice water.

A good martini (in my personal opinion!) has 3 parts of a good Plymouth style gin, 1 or even 2 parts of a good dry vermouth, an olive with the bit of brine that comes with it, and some ice water through shaking or stirring. All of this in a 4-5 oz. martini or cocktail glass.

Shaken or stirred - the author of the script of a recent motion picture expressed it the way I've been answering for years.

A bad "martini" is made of supermarket vodka you keep in the freezer, an oversized glass you keep there as well, Albanian vermouth you had swayed in said glass and poured out again, no ice water obviously, and three olives stuffed with some paste of doubtable ingredients, best each olive with a differently coloured paste. Add a general amount of little umbrellas and the like.

[univibe88]

Vodka has been the bane of the cocktail for years. It seems that gin has made a comeback as of late. There are many more on the shelves than in years past. Unfortunately many of the new gins are made to be "smooth" in order to cater to the vodka market. Smooth = watered down and lacking flavor. However, I'd rather someone drink a light gin instead of vodka. Perhaps he will learn to like and move into a real, spicy, juniper driven gin.

[rumblefish]

This is simply incorrect, I'm afraid. The only difference is in looks right after you shake it. A very short time afterwards, it clears again and you won't see a difference, let alone taste one.

Who has a very short time to wait to drink it? By the time my martini is poured, I've waited long enough.;)

[Shaul-Ike Cohen]

Who has a very short time to wait to drink it? By the time my martini is poured, I've waited long enough.;)

Well, the taste, as I said, is the same, and your statement doesn't suggest you care much about the mere looks.;)

[carebear]

If time is of the essence, don't have them pour it, just stick a straw in the shaker. :D

[rumblefish]

Well, the taste, as I said, is the same, and your statement doesn't suggest you care much about the mere looks.;)
Taste is up to the gin itself. I don't subscribe to the notion of "bests". People like what they like. There are gins you and I might turn our noses up at, but there will also be someone who would argue why that gin is their favorite. There is, however, mouth-feel or texture, if you will, to consider. I invite you to try it yourself. If I could I'd ask to allow me to mix them for you. Using your favorites for both, Stir a Martini and shake one. Then try them side by side...silky smooth....a discernable difference, at least for me.

To quote Dale Degroff, "New York's Friendliest Bartender" Forbes Magazine: "The heavy, silkier texture achieved by stirring is preferable to a frothy, aerated texture for Martinis and Manhattans."

[Josh B.]

A new guy's $.02,

An old bartender taught me that the shaken or stirred controversy is a matter of taste, but a truly excellent martini will have all of its components chilled as cold as possible. The gin should as cold as your freezer can make it, the shaker (or glassware), and your martini glass should be right next to the gin. The vermouth should be kept chilled in a fridge-- never in the freezer. The entire drink should be combined as quickly as possible, and drank before the condensation leaves the glass. I've experimented with new ways, but I haven't found anything that beats an absurdly cold martini.

As for gins, I always keep two or three bottles of gin for the different drinks.
Hendrick's is for my martinis. IMO Hendricks is the finest gin I've ever had-- expensive, yes-- but with a subtle flavour that's absolutely unique. Follow the directions on the bottle, and try a Hendricks martini with a twist of cucumber, it's both unique and classy
Bombay Sapphire for gin & tonics, since it has a stronger flavour to stand up against the lime.

I also keep a bottle of Gordon's around for a friend who likes his martinis James-Bond-style, since the gin is just going to slop around with a lot of other strong liquors.

[Smithy]

I posted this on about the 1st page of this thread but I thought I'd bring it up again for gin lovers who maybe haven't tried it...

After being a Tankie fan for many years I had the pleasure of finding the best gin I have tasted last year, Cadenhead's "Old Raj". It's a beautiful drop and very dry, and with a very slight straw tinge to the colour due to a very small amount of saffron in the spirit. It's strong being 55% but it's the only gin I'll buy now.

Worth buying if you see it, comes in a white box with blue lettering and a picture of an old kohai on it.

[Shaul-Ike Cohen]

So, as we're repeating things, let me chime in:

Yes, Old Raj is a fine gin.

No, Hendrick's isn't, in my opinion. Blown-up nonsense, watery, and you really have to believe the hipster advertisements that try to make you believe they're anti-hipster.

Yes, different kinds of gin for different drinks, positively. Some of the top-range varieties are good on their own, good in a gimlet though they make a different drink than with more discreet gins, but they'd simply kill a martini.

And finally, still my personal opinion or experience: Yes, a martini is best very cold, but not for the price of lacking the water from the ice cubes! If you shake or stir it the way you do that with other cocktails, it'll be cold enough. Decent amount of ice cubes and some 20 seconds of shaking, or 30 of stirring will do. The difference a chilled glass makes is mental - it might both suggest the brain the drink is colder than it is, or create an expectation that isn't met then. I like my martini cold, but my glass dry on the outside.

There's no need whatsoever to keep the gin in the freezer, or the vermouth in the fridge, except to extend the best-by date, and to look cool. But you want a good drink, you don't want to impersonate Sean Connery and end up to be a poor Tom Cruise copy, do you?

[univibe88]

I had the WORST martini of my life at a restaurant the other day. It was a small place with the dining room and bar in adjacent rooms. I could hear them shaking my martini while at my table. And the shaking went on forever. I said to my wife "I hope to God that's not my drink."

Now, I don't want to rehash a great shaken vs. stirred debate. I really don't mind a shaken drink. But when it's shaken so vigorously that I can hear it 20 feet away...and it goes on forever....this was not good.

Sure enough, what came to my table was a gin slushy. There was so much ice in it that I couldn't even take a sip. And when a finally could strain a sip through my teeth it was terribly watered down. Not to mention they garnished with a lemon and I specifically asked for olives.

[LocktownDog]

I had the WORST martini of my life at a restaurant the other day.

I hear ya. I don't even ask for martinis in some places anymore, because I have to give so many verbal instructions to the "bartenders".

Richard

[univibe88]

And I feel like a jackass rattling off too much. I'll often get straight Scotch or Bourbon figuring they can't mess that up. Amazingly, it can be done.

[rumblefish]

Where to find Old Raj? I've seen it on line for $73.00 is that expensive?

[The Reno Kid]

Vodka has been the bane of the cocktail for years.

Hear, hear!!!

[Highlander]

For me, Bombay Saphire... I put the Extra Dry Vermouth in the olive jar with the olives. Then, make the drink dirty, with a mix of olive juice and Vermouth.

[Panache]

Gin is my poison of choice.

I think that the taste of a Gin and tonic is the very taste of civilization.

I prefer Tanqueray but Beefeater is fine.

Favorite drinks include the beloved G & T with a nice slice of lime, Gibsons with three onions, and Basil Gimlets.

Cheers

[Lola Getz]

Mike in Seattle, you devil, thank you for recommending Tangueray Rangpur!

I am in love! :D

I think that the taste of a Gin and tonic is the very taste of civilization
Panache, I quite agree.

[Hawk_Eye]

Well, I'm 21 and I have just fallen in love with gin as of very recently and have been consuming vast quantities of gin and tonics. I finished off two 750ml bottles of Gilbeys in a week, so I bought a 1.75 litre bottle of same, hopefully it lasts a bit longer.:D
Im a bartender myself and I can tell you I've never had anyone ask for a gin martini, all the rage at the moment are vodkatinis of the flavoured varieties. I have to say after going through this whole thread I'm shamed to say that I've never had a gin martini, or even made one before. However, tomorrows my day off and I plan on spending the day at the bar at work, getting my friend to mix me up a few!

[univibe88]

Im a bartender myself and I can tell you I've never had anyone ask for a gin martini,
That is a shame.



I'm shamed to say that I've never had a gin martini, or even made one before.

That is a shame. But at least you can fix it.

[miss_elise]

i like bombay sapphire myself...

can anyone confirm or deny rumours i have heard that there is a bombay emerald out there?

[Mike in Seattle]

I haven't heard anything about a Bombay emerald, It could be something they're developing and/or trying out in certain markets to see how it sells. Tanqueray's added Rangpur and Ten in the last couple of years - maybe Bombay's thinking it's time to expand their product line.

I'm starting to like "plain ol" Bombay more than Sapphire. But lately I've been enjoying Plymouth. Very yummy Martinis with that.

[LocktownDog]

Been slowly working my way through a bottle of Lilli. French gin. [huh] Pretty labeling but seriously lacking in flavor. Tried it with tonic, straight, in martinis, etc. Always tastes like vodka. Very light on floral and spice notes. Was a $40 bottle that I was able to pick up for $18. Now I know why.

Richard

[CherryRed]

Gin is my favorite. It agrees with me better than everything else.
I am a sweet Martini fan but I like dry too. Both always dirty and with two olives.
As for brands, we go through alcohol pretty quick so we can only buy the cheep stuff. Usually Burnett's, sometimes Gordon's. We have been wanting to try some Bombay Sapphire for a while....maybe this Christmas.:cheers1:

[Smithy]

I've been singing its praises on the FL so much I should get a promotional fee, but gin lovers should track down Old Raj. Simply wonderful gin.

[16_sparrows]

I'm a Bombay girl and am in absolute love with gin. I just recently discovered Pink Gin (cocktail). Anyone else a fan?

[Smithy]

I just recently discovered Pink Gin (cocktail). Anyone else a fan?

I'm partial to a pink gin. Unfortunately (and shockingly) many bartenders today don't have a clue what one is, less how to make one.

I went to a 1920s to 1940s party a couple of years ago back home where the only drinks allowed were pink gins, Pimms, and champagne. Was a humdinger of a do although I do remember having a hangover of epic proportions the next day.

[driven_247]

Another vote for Bombay Sapphire here...

* But *

A friend and I was in Vegas in 12/06 and I had a martini with the best gin I had ever tried. It was called "Leyden", I believe.

After returning home, I found a small liqour store in Richmond Indian that was willing to order a case for me and my friend. We did so... we loved it again.

Since then, I haven't been able to find it again. Anyone ever ran across Leyden gin? I would love to have some more.

[univibe88]

Been slowly working my way through a bottle of Lilli. French gin. [huh] Pretty labeling but seriously lacking in flavor. Tried it with tonic, straight, in martinis, etc. Always tastes like vodka. Very light on floral and spice notes. Was a $40 bottle that I was able to pick up for $18. Now I know why.

Richard

Unfortunately many gins are going after the vodka market by making a very soft, vodka-like product.

Although I guess if they can attract the vodka market and have them graduate into a fuller, spicier gin, then it's a good thing for the gin market all around. [huh]

[jawisher]

I am definitely an enthusiastic Bombay Sapphire fan. I won't say that I can't drink anything else, but I can say that I like nothing better.

I did try something new the other day, on a whim at BevMo: 'Broker's Gin'. The label with the London-banker logo was appealing, and it was touted for winning some award. Anyway, it was pretty good. I'd put it up as smooth as Sapphire, but just with a little different taste blend. Has anyone else tried it?

[univibe88]

Yes, I have tried Brokers. I think it is from the class of gin that is trying to appeal to vodka drinkers. It is too bland for my taste. I like a spicy, juniper gin that tastes like gin.

[Panache]

I'm a Bombay girl and am in absolute love with gin. I just recently discovered Pink Gin (cocktail). Anyone else a fan?

I have one on occassion, but I believe that they are traditionally served at room temperature and I drink mine cold.

Cheers

Jamie

[Tomasso]

Plain old Tanqueray London Dry for me. :)

[MEDIUMMYND]

For the perfect gin and tonic it has to be Bombay Sapphire a good non diet tonic a slice of lime and plenty of ice made with distilled water,using distilled water makes perfectly clear ice cubes much easier on the eye

[univibe88]

I've been singing its praises on the FL so much I should get a promotional fee, but gin lovers should track down Old Raj. Simply wonderful gin.

Call them up and ask for another commission check. I bought some recently and it was incredible.

[rumblefish]

Has anyone tried this?
Any opinions?

My guess is, it may make a nice Gimlet.

[rmrdaddy]

Yes, nice and limey.
Made a decent G&T over the summer with it too.

I miss Tangeray's Malacca Gin....(sigh), THAT was some tasty stuff!

[WildCelt]

New Amsterdam: Bleech!

Indeed. When i got out of the Marine Corps and became a poor college student, I decided to see what kind of gin I could find that was cheaper than Bombay Sapphire, but still good. Among the gins I tried was New Amsterdam and I was horrified to taste no juniper at all, but a orangey taste. Ick! I've since found Gilbey's to be a good, inexpensive gin with enough of a juniper taste to be considered gin.

While my wife was pregnant (and therefore not drinking), I continued to make the same amount of martini as before, but put the rest of the stirred up martini (three parts gin to one part vermouth) back in the freezer after pouring my drink. When I'd get back to it, it was so cold it poured out like clear motor oil and tasted superb. I hadn't realized how important it was to have the martini cold until then.


Tanqueray Rangpur
Has anyone tried this?
Any opinions?

Not bad at all. The clerk at my local liquor store popped a mini-bottle of it in the bag with my other gin one time. We'd been discussing gins and he said they'd just gotten it in and to let him know how I liked it. I didn't bother making any kind of cocktail with it, just chilled it for a while and drank it. It had a real lime taste rather than a "lime flavor" taste.

[Kermez]

I hate when people (most women, in my experience) talk about how they enjoy vodka martinis. Pfui! James Bond be damned - gin is one and only the base of REAL martinis!

Bombay Saphire, ftw.

[Mike in Seattle]

OK...once again, a vodka Martini isn't a Martini. Repeat after me - "That's a kangaroo!" Seriously, that is the proper name of vodka + vermouth! A proper Martini is gin + vermouth + a drop or two of orange bitters, stirred or shaken with ice and served icy cold with a twist or olive. A little olive brine - a dirty Martini. Onion instead of olive? A Gibson. Olive-onion-olive - my personal fave.

No gin - it's NOT a Martini. Call it a vodkatini - fine. Apple or cranberry or various other fruit-flavored concoctions of vodka instead of gin - NOT a martini. One might call such drinks an abomination, perhaps, but they're still not Martinis.

Would we call a baseball cap a fedora just because it goes on one's head? Hell no! Now you get the picture, right?

From what I've read - Dutch gin is usually more orangey (haven't ever tried it myself). That's one main difference between it and the far better known, more "traditional" English gin: Dutch sometimes has citrus in the mix, but less juniper, while English is more strongly juniper-flavored, along with various other arromatic herbal flavors thrown into the mix.

Looks like Leyden's no longer available. Their import / distribution license expired 06/30/2007 and they only had the one distributor / importer in the country. Any of the liquor sites that listed it show "Out of Stock" or similar. But it sounds like Leyden was just one of the Dutch "types" of gin.

I've always kept my gin in the freezer alongside the vodka. That's there for guests if they want a VODKA-tini ;). But I'm an equal opportunity host & drink-mixer. Name it - if I have the supplies to make it - you got it! But as mentioned above, it does get slightly thicker, but still liquid, kept in the freezer. It won't solidify and break the bottle like the wine you put in for a quick chill before dinner and forget about until you open it the next morning to find messy bottle shards and Chardonnay slush to clean up. I also keep a few stemless Martini glasses in the freezer as well. They're handy for mixing a quick Martini right in the glass, or nicely pre-chilled for when I make shrimp cocktail for friends.

I'm another Bombay Sapphire fan, but I recently tried Plymouth at the suggestion of a friend, and that's another really nice one. It's a little smoother and not quite as sharp. Sometimes that's a nice change of pace. It was supposedly Churchill's gin of choice, and wasn't always available in the US until the last 5-10 years.

[Lancealot]

I have recently started drinking gin. I have a bottle of Burnett's in the freezer and have made a few martini's either the Vesper from the Bond books, the classic with just gin and vermouth, or the dirty martini. I've also found I really enjoy gin Gimlet's made the Long Goodbye way equal measures Rose's sweetened lime juice and gin.

The girlfriend can't seem to get a taste for the stuff but I'm really enjoy it.

[rumblefish]

Olive-onion-olive - my personal fave.



I thought I was the only one that did that! Never out, but at home...I've been keeping it a secret for fear of persecution.

[univibe88]

Mike, when I am in Seattle I will buy you a Martini :eusa_clap

To everyone who likes Sapphire I issue you a challenge - try Beefeater. I am serious. Both are very juniper driven, spicy, herbal gins and surprisingly similar. Get yourself two nips and have your girl pour them in two seperate glasses and try a blind taste test. You'll be surprised.

My friends and I did a blind test and were very surprised with some of the results. One thing I found is that I feel English gin can more or less be grouped into three catagories. First there are the spicy, juniper ones like Sapphire and Beefeater. Then there are citrusy ones like Tanqueray and Tanq 10. Last there are what I call "modern" gins (for lack of a better word.) These are softer and I feel aimed at the vodka market. Pretty much anything that has just showed up on the shelf in the last year and obviously has to much marketing fluff behind it. Examples are Brokers, Aviation, Millers, etc & anything from a Vodka company - Citadelle, Van Gogh, etc.

[Kermez]

I thought I was the only one that did that! Never out, but at home...I've been keeping it a secret for fear of persecution.

I, too, am a big fan of a nice "gin salad". :D

[Mr. K.L.Bowers]

Has anyone tried this?
Any opinions?

My guess is, it may make a nice Gimlet.

I use nothing else but for my G & T. Ice, two OZ of Tanqueray, one whole lime, squeezed and fill with Schweppes tonic Water from 10 OZ GLASS bottle.
With thanks to Zemke Fan

[Tomasso]

G & T. Ice, two OZ of Tanqueray, one whole lime, squeezed and fill with Schweppes tonic Water :eusa_doh:

[Mr. K.L.Bowers]

It's my only source of vitamin C, what can I say.

[WEEGEE]

Both very nice!!!


http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e241/WEEGEE13/CORKGINS.jpg


http://www.irishdistillers.ie/brands/corkdrygin.shtml

[Mike in Seattle]

It just hit me this morning, with temperatures approaching 40 and our two week accumulation of snow swiftly disappearing, that I should've thought to stick one of the Sapphire bottles out on the table on the deck (a foot deep in snow) since we had days and days with 18-20 as the high, and then made an outrageously teeth-chatteringly cold Martini just for the heck of it.

[Lola Getz]

It's my only source of vitamin C, what can I say.

Hey, I'm with you, Mr. K.L. Bowers. Scurvy be gone! Bring on the nightly gin & tonic.

Hey, Mike in Seattle, that teeth-chatteringly cold martini sounds fantastic. Yummm.

[Chrome]

Bombay that is the choice of mine.

Gin bitter is the best way to enjoy it and can be enjoyed in large quantities without hangover in the morning (maybe you're still under influence).

[filfoster]

I admire all the wonderful, expensive gins but honestly, I think Gordon's makes a fine Martini. And I think Martini & Rossi dry vermouth is perfectly acceptable and from what I read about Noilly Pratt's recipe change for their dry vermouth, the M&R just got better.

[univibe88]

what I read about Noilly Pratt's recipe change for their dry vermouth, the M&R just got better.

Huh? I had not heard about this. Got a link?

[univibe88]

I found it: http://www.slashfood.com/2009/01/11/noilly-prat-dry-vermouth-to-change-us-formula/

This is TRAGIC

[Esme]

It is really hot here, so I have been thinking about gin again, so resurrecting this.
My husband mentioned something that is common here in Perth. People have lots of tropical fruits growing here, due to the climate, in their yards. They give them away at work. I am always bringing home lemons, for instance. Someone he works with was giving away bags of Kiwifruit and passionfruit the other day. He missed out, due to being in a meeting, but he said next time he will get a bag. He brings them home, scoops them out into ice trays and freezes them. Then, folks here have them with a gin. Sounds interesting, I must try. Especially the passionfruit.

[funneman]

Since I recently ran out of bourbon and scotch, I've gotten to be
good friends with that shapely green bottle. I prefer my drinks neat.

After becoming well aquainted one night this week with gin, I switched to
vodka the next night. (Skyy).

I found my head hurt a lot less the next day after drinking the vodka. But I
found both to be quite enjoyable.

[huh]

[Zemke Fan]

... but can't see if anyone has mentioned *Hendricks* as a brand. I have been drinking it frequently in recent months. I still go for TQ-10 straight up and TQ regular for G&Ts, but Hendricks on the rocks with a drop of vermouth is pretty sublime.

[univibe88]

... but can't see if anyone has mentioned *Hendricks* as a brand. I have been drinking it frequently in recent months. I still go for TQ-10 straight up and TQ regular for G&Ts, but Hendricks on the rocks with a drop of vermouth is pretty sublime.

Hendricks is very good. Take their suggestion and garnish it with cucumber. It really give it a different twist and differentiates it from other gins (and therefore justifies keeping it stocked in addition to your other favorites.)

[Kermez]

I love gin & tonics, but rarely have them at home. Too much trouble, keeping fresh limes on hand and tonic water that will go flat quick only using it every so often as I wouldn't ALWAYS have a g&t. No, I just order them when I'm out - that works for me.

[rumblefish]

therefore justifies keeping it stocked in addition to you other favorites.)

...when I'm shopping in the liquor store or online- I'm all about that kind of justification.:)

[gingermore]

I love gin & tonics, but rarely have them at home. Too much trouble, keeping fresh limes on hand and tonic water that will go flat quick only using it every so often as I wouldn't ALWAYS have a g&t. No, I just order them when I'm out - that works for me.

Flat tonic water is a problem. I sometimes buy packs of the little bottles of tonic water. That way I usually have a nice bubbly bottle on hand for the occaisonal gin and tonic.

[univibe88]

I like the little bottles too.

[Kermez]

Yes, I have been giving SERIOUS consideration to little bottles, but as yet I am still undecided...

What gin do y'all like for your G&Ts?

[John in Covina]

The people at Anchor Steam also do distilling and their Junipero gin is really nice and is a bit more ginny than Tanquerey Ten which is #2 on my list.

Bombay Saphire is great.

[filfoster]

Since I recently ran out of bourbon and scotch, I've gotten to be
good friends with that shapely green bottle. I prefer my drinks neat.

After becoming well aquainted one night this week with gin, I switched to
vodka the next night. (Skyy).

I found my head hurt a lot less the next day after drinking the vodka. But I
found both to be quite enjoyable.

[huh]
This is common: The 'botanicals' (the folderol for all the juniper, berries and floor sweepings supposed to be in it) in gin are rumored to be responsible. Still, I stick with gin, because of its history and I feel sorry for it. I have not 'searched' it but wonder if any thread has mentioned 'sloe gin' because it is in fact proof of Satan's existence on earth?

[univibe88]

Juniper itself is poisonous. Yes, a gin hangover is brutal.

[Orsini]

The Zulu's called gin "Queen's Tears."

[rumblefish]

I, too, am a big fan of a nice "gin salad". :D

Speaking of salad, have you ever tried Hendricks with cucumber?

[Kermez]

Yes, a gin hangover is brutal.

I can vouch for this. :(


Speaking of salad, have you ever tried Hendricks with cucumber?

No, but I seen to recall that I've heard of it - IIRC, an acquaintance of mine likes them (but I could be wrong about this).

[carebear]

There's no such thing as a "gin hangover".

Lime hangover? Yes.

Ice hangover? Of course.

Quinine hangover? Indubitedly.

But gin, sweet sweet gin, that panacea for all that ails one? It is slander and heresy to ascribe anything so base as a hangover to such an elixer.

:D

[Thwack]

There's no such thing as a "gin hangover".

Lime hangover? Yes.

Ice hangover? Of course.

Quinine hangover? Indubitedly.

But gin, sweet sweet gin, that panacea for all that ails one? It is slander and heresy to ascribe anything so base as a hangover to such an elixer.

:D

:eusa_clap

Those ice-hangovers are my downfall...

[Fletch]

I like gin. I like vodka, too. This makes me a philistine in some circles.

[Ethan Bentley]

I think my favourite has to be Boodle's, unfortunately it's rather difficult to get hold of in the UK. Stocks seem to be running low and I think I've only got one measure left in the bottle...

[jamespowers]

Let's see:
Hendrick's
Bombay Sapphire
Citadel
and one whose name I can't remember but it came with a black bowler on its stopper one year. ;) :D

Not really a big gin drinker so my choices may not be what connoisseurs would choose. My bag is Scotch. :cheers1:

[univibe88]

and one whose name I can't remember but it came with a black bowler on its stopper one year. ;) :D


Broker's Gin. It's fairly light and vodka-like.

[jamespowers]

Broker's Gin. It's fairly light and vodka-like.


That sounds right. The hat gimmick worked. What can I say? This is the Fedora Lounge after all. ;) :p :D

[jamespowers]

Speaking of salad, have you ever tried Hendricks with cucumber?

Uh, yes. Where could you have gotten that idea? ;) :p

[univibe88]

That sounds right. The hat gimmick worked. What can I say? This is the Fedora Lounge after all. ;) :p :D

Yeah, the hat got me.

[jamespowers]

Yeah, the hat got me.

See? :D

[Brad Bowers]

Yeah, the hat got me.

Me too. I kept the empty bottle, lid and all, just for the fun of it.

Brad

[jamespowers]

Me too. I kept the empty bottle, lid and all, just for the fun of it.

Brad

We are going to have to create Broker's Gin Annonymous. ;) :p

[Senator Jack]

Okay, new gin drink I'm perfecting.

1/2 fresh juice orange
1/2 fresh lime.
1 oz Blue curacao
5 oz Gin
A touch of orgeat.

[rumblefish]

Uh, yes. Where could you have gotten that idea? ;) :p

Something I read somewhere:o

OK, you got me.:D :p

[rumblefish]

Uh, yes. Where could you have gotten that idea? ;) :p
Worked a whole lot better than the pickle I tried previously. [huh]

[jamespowers]

Worked a whole lot better than the pickle I tried previously. [huh]

:eek: Please tell me you didn't.
Try the pickle with Cynar. It couldn't get much worse than straight. ;) :p

[Ethan Bentley]

:eek: Please tell me you didn't.
Try the pickle with Cynar. It couldn't get much worse than straight. ;) :p

Is Cynar worse than Suze - I have bottle of Cynar that I purchased in a bargain bin but have brought myself to try it yet.

[rumblefish]

Is Cynar worse than Suze
Suze has nothing on Cynar.
If I remember Suze at all, it has a similar in taste to Angostura Bitters. I don't know what I would compare Cynar to except bitter Artichokes. I have an idea what jamespowers might compare it to.:eek: :D
Keep an open mind, be brave, and give it a try.:)
Remember despite it's taste,,,it can't kill you.

[rumblefish]

:eek: Please tell me you didn't.
Try the pickle with Cynar. It couldn't get much worse than straight. ;) :p
I didn't;)

I'll hold the pickle for the grapefruit and spearmint gin I have...still have.*yucky* But then again- why would I do that to the poor pickle?

[Ethan Bentley]

In comparison to Suze, Angostura Bitters are manna from heaven. :) I've not tasted much that is as bitter as Suze, made from the genitian root, I think.

Although some I know argue that Campari is worse. Nonetheless I shall endeavour to try the Cynar, the artichoke on the label is mighty appealing.
Any recommendations of how to mix? Or should I just knock it back and think of England?

[rumblefish]

Although some I know argue that Campari is worse.

Fair warning; I like Cynar, I love Campari.



Nonetheless I shall endeavour to try the Cynar, the artichoke on the label is mighty appealing.
Any recommendations of how to mix? Or should I just knock it back and think of England?

Knock it back!... With a devil-may-care attitude.:cool: Cheers.

[jamespowers]

Suze has nothing on Cynar.
If I remember Suze at all, it has a similar in taste to Angostura Bitters. I don't know what I would compare Cynar to except bitter Artichokes. I have an idea what jamespowers might compare it to.:eek: :D
Keep an open mind, be brave, and give it a try.:)
Remember despite it's taste,,,it can't kill you.

I would say it tastes like dirt but I have never tried dirt and don't want to insult dirt---I grow things in dirt. :p
It might not kill you but keep a five gallon bucket handy. :rolleyes:
The only thing I can stand gentian in is Moxie. ;)

[jamespowers]

Fair warning; I like Cynar, I love Campari.




Knock it back!... With a devil-may-care attitude.:cool: Cheers.

Knock it back with a few medics standing by. :eusa_doh: :p

[rumblefish]

I would say it tastes like dirt but I have never tried dirt and don't want to insult dirt---I grow things in dirt. :p
It might not kill you but keep a five gallon bucket handy. :rolleyes:
The only thing I can stand gentian in is Moxie. ;)
lol lol lol lol lol

[PADDY]

...Beefeater.

[Ethan Bentley]

...Beefeater.

Has anyone tried Beefeater 24 yet?

http://www.independent.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00104/beefeater_104805t.jpg

[PADDY]

Never even heard of it. Is it new on the market?[huh]

I've been trying Gins for a cocktail I have been mastering recently, and many of the Gins were being overpowered by the other flavours, but Beefeater is BEEFY enough to hold its' own on this one, so have gone with it.

But there's so many 'new' ones out there (And old defunct ones that have been resurrected and rebranded) such as an old Belfast Gin which I'd be keen to try out.

[Ethan Bentley]

Never even heard of it. Is it new on the market?[huh]

I've been trying Gins for a cocktail I have been mastering recently, and many of the Gins were being overpowered by the other flavours, but Beefeater is BEEFY enough to hold its' own on this one, so have gone with it.

But there's so many 'new' ones out there (And old defunct ones that have been resurrected and rebranded) such as an old Belfast Gin which I'd be keen to try out.

It is relatively new, it's only been out a few months. I picked up a bottle at a great whisky shop near London Bridge, rather my wife did.
We had a little tasting session with friends trying it in different form. Surprisingly it seemed to work best on it own although a Martini works quite well.
I'm very interested in the fact that you are perfecting a cocktail, something that really interests me. So far I've worked on the Brandy Alexander and an Espresso variant. Be great to hear about yours once you're satisfied with your work. :)
I am a big fan of Gin and have probably tried most of what is available in the UK. This is partly why I'm looking forward to my trip over to the US in July, if I can find a well stocked bar I shall be happy.

Great to hear about another enthusiast.
Mixology is it an art or a science? :D

[univibe88]

I've been trying Gins for a cocktail I have been mastering recently, and many of the Gins were being overpowered by the other flavours, but Beefeater is BEEFY enough to hold its' own on this one, so have gone with it.



I love Beefeater for the same reason. I like the spicy, juniper flavor. Many new gins to the market are going after vodka drinkers so they have made a softer product.

[swanky_frankie]

bombay sapphire is my weapon of choice.

[Ethan Bentley]

Fair warning; I like Cynar, I love Campari.




Knock it back!... With a devil-may-care attitude.:cool: Cheers.

I tried it this weekend with a friend who insisted on sipping it, which prolonged his agony. As mentioned I just knocked the glass back.

My thoughts: about what I expected but it wasn't as bad as Campari. I think that if/when I drink it in the future I shall drink it neat. My friend then wanted to have it with tonic - I thought this made it worse.

There were a few cocktails on the back but I've not tried them yet.

All in all, I'm glad I've tried it :)

[Ethan Bentley]

I've just tried Seagram's Grape Gin - has anyone else tried any fruit-flavoured gins?

[jamespowers]

I've just tried Seagram's Grape Gin - has anyone else tried any fruit-flavoured gins?

With the Myriad of Botanicals added to many gins today, that kind of seems like a redundant question. ;) :p Grape, however, is a new one to me. I have not tried any specifically produced one fruit flavored gin. How was it? :D

[rumblefish]

I've just tried Seagram's Grape Gin - has anyone else tried any fruit-flavoured gins?
How was it? Did you mix it?

I have,,, still have Gordons grapefruit gin and spearmint gin. Awful, the both of them. I've made a few gimlets with the grapefruit gin, but it winds up tasting like a lime popsicle,,, not in a good way. I pawn it off on less sophisticated taste buds, "oooh, you know what you would like?.. I've got this grapefruit gin...":o
The spearmint is completely useless...*yucky* I have a half case of each that a liquor salesman/friend gave me. All the good stuff from him is long gone.;)

[jamespowers]

How was it? Did you mix it?

I have,,, still have Gordons grapefruit gin and spearmint gin. Awful, the both of them. I've made a few gimlets with the grapefruit gin, but it winds up tasting like a lime popsicle,,, not in a good way. I pawn it off on less sophisticated taste buds, "oooh, you know what you would like?.. I've got this grapefruit gin...":o
The spearmint is completely useless...*yucky* I have a half case of each that a liquor salesman/friend gave me. All the good stuff from him is long gone.;)

With Salesman friends like that, who needs enemies? ;) :p

[rumblefish]

With Salesman friends like that, who needs enemies? ;) :p
He is long gone too, at least his job as a liquor salesman. Now he sells cars, he offered me a case of Yugos...:D

[Ethan Bentley]

With the Myriad of Botanicals added to many gins today, that kind of seems like a redundant question. ;) :p Grape, however, is a new one to me. I have not tried any specifically produced one fruit flavored gin. How was it? :D

Haha I wonder if someone would make that comment :D

It wasn't too great, Seagram's also do Lime (had that), Raspberry, Apple and Orange gin.
I had it on it's own it was purple grape flavour but with the gin it tasted a bit like bubblegum.
In a gin and tonic - I just couldn't finish it. *the shame*.

I had some Skyy Grape Vodka today which was better.

Rumblefish sounds interesting, even though I know it'll probably be foul the Gordon's Grapefruit is something I'd love to try someday. I'm a bit of a Gin nut (ever been any nut-flavoured Gin?) particularly Gordon's.

On that note - has anyone ever heard of Gordon's Jamaica Cane Gin?

I've had a few new Gin's lately, in order of preference; Quintessential, New Amsterdam, Booth's "High and Dry", Omega and Churchill.

The first two were really great so it balances the grape out :)

[jamespowers]

He is long gone too, at least his job as a liquor salesman. Now he sells cars, he offered me a case of Yugos...:D


Great guy. :rolleyes: :eusa_doh:

[Boodles]

How was it? Did you mix it?

I have,,, still have Gordons grapefruit gin and spearmint gin. Awful, the both of them. I've made a few gimlets with the grapefruit gin, but it winds up tasting like a lime popsicle,,, not in a good way. I pawn it off on less sophisticated taste buds, "oooh, you know what you would like?.. I've got this grapefruit gin...":o
The spearmint is completely useless...*yucky* I have a half case of each that a liquor salesman/friend gave me. All the good stuff from him is long gone.;)

Well Mr Fish, have you tried soaking your oysters in that grapefruit/spearmint gin or soaking a musty smelling vintage hat in it? Half a case left? Holy moly. I know, what about the guy Atticus Finch is telling us about, the boiled chitlins guy? He might sucker on it. Gordon's ought to refund your dough on that stuff. They saw you comin' on that one.

[Cigarband]

It's got to be Gordons!

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n233/Parup_2006/gin.jpg

Way back in 1985, I spent a couple of weeks in England visiting friends. Being a Gordon's drinker, I toured the distillery. Much to my surprise, when the tour reached the filling line, I saw that every other bottle being filled was a Tanqueray bottle! I was told that the Gordon's sold in the USA, was distilled by license in the USA, and that English Gordon's could not be imported. So they imported it as Tanqueray. When I returned home, I tried both again in a blind taste test, and there was a noticeable difference. Tanqueray was MUCH better. I don't know if this is the current situation, but I do know that both companies are owned by the same international holding company.

[Cigarband]

Up with a twist, please.

I ordered a "Myers Dark straight up, and a Coke back", and the 21 something bartender brought it to me poured over shaved ice in a Martini glass, and a Coke! When I questioned this, I was told "That's how we make it here". I explained what "straight up" means, and he said that what I should have said was "neat".
At that point, I left.

[Cigarband]

Vodka has been the bane of the cocktail for years. It seems that gin has made a comeback as of late. There are many more on the shelves than in years past. Unfortunately many of the new gins are made to be "smooth" in order to cater to the vodka market. Smooth = watered down and lacking flavor.

"Smooth" Gin is not watered down. Because of the popularity of premium Vodkas which are distilled multiple times to remove the congeners (toxic chemicals that are formed during fermentation that cause hangovers), Gin distillers are now multiple-distilling the Gin base alcohol to achieve the same end. They are also cutting down on the florals added, and raising the fruits. This has produced a distinct change in the "character" of many Gins.

[CaptainB]

Yesterday I tried Hendrick's for the first time - I could make out the roses (lots of them), but not the cucumbers. Not that I'd call myself an expert, the only other gins I know are Gordon's and Bombay Sapphire.

Best regards,
Captain B

[univibe88]

Yesterday I tried Hendrick's for the first time - I could make out the roses (lots of them), but not the cucumbers. Not that I'd call myself an expert, the only other Gins I know are Gordon's and Bombay Sapphire.

Best regards,
Captain B

Garnish your drink with a cucumber, it will really bring it out.

[CaptainB]

Garnish your drink with a cucumber, it will really bring it out.

I'll have to try this!

What's the best way to drink gin neat? From the freezer, with cubes, or at room temperature? What type of glass?

Best regards,
Captain B

[univibe88]

I don't know anyone who drinks it neat. Nor do I know anyone who drinks it at room temp. It's best for use as a base in cocktails like the martini, negroni, aviation, ramos gin fizz, gin and tonic, tom collins etc.

[carebear]

I've been drinking the New Amsterdam in my G&T's lately. I can get a handle for the price of a fifth of Tanq. and it holds up in the flavor dept.

[Ethan Bentley]

I'll have to try this!

What's the best way to drink gin neat? From the freezer, with cubes, or at room temperature? What type of glass?

Best regards,
Captain B

If I have it neat, I quite like it a room temperature.
That said I've only found a few that I would happily sip in this fashion.
I would tend to use a small tumbler.

Generally I mix and then it's kept in the freezer. (What will fit anyway)

I too can endorse the Hendrick's cucumber garnish, I have also had it garnished with strawberries and fresh rose petals.

CAREBEAR - I got a bottle of New Amsterdam last week and I am really enjoying it, seems to be getting a lot of promo in liquor stores around Florida. But it's good in a G &T - smooth and fresh and not bad on it's own.
Do you garnish your gin and tonic?

[carebear]

If I have it neat, I quite like it a room temperature.
That said I've only found a few that I would happily sip in this fashion.
I would tend to use a small tumbler.

Generally I mix and then it's kept in the freezer. (What will fit anyway)

I too can endorse the Hendrick's cucumber garnish, I have also had it garnished with strawberries and fresh rose petals.

CAREBEAR - I got a bottle of New Amsterdam last week and I am really enjoying it, seems to be getting a lot of promo in liquor stores around Florida. But it's good in a G &T - smooth and fresh and not bad on it's own.
Do you garnish your gin and tonic?

The New A. surprised me, I hate paying more for a name brand just "because". Always a pleasure to find a better deal.

I HAVE to try the cucumber, I see it as a garnish on a lot of different cocktails.

Typically I use limes, lately I've been buying little Key Limes about the size of a ping pong ball. I drink my G&T's out of pint glasses (doubles) so the juice of 1/2 goes in.

[Ethan Bentley]

The New A. surprised me, I hate paying more for a name brand just "because". Always a pleasure to find a better deal.

I HAVE to try the cucumber, I see it as a garnish on a lot of different cocktails.
It is good, other than with Hendricks my favourites would have to be with Pimm's or with a Cucumber "Martini" i.e. martini variant (cucumber vodka and vermouth). I find you don't need much with the Hendricks just a slice.



Typically I use limes, lately I've been buying little Key Limes about the size of a ping pong ball. I drink my G&T's out of pint glasses (doubles) so the juice of 1/2 goes in.


The pint glass sounds good to me :D Sometimes with limes I cut them into wedges and then freeze them. If I can do fresh I tend to.

There is a great G&T recipe in Ian Fleming's "Dr.No", a treat for a lime fan I'd expect. I'll try and post it soon.

[SamMarlowPI]

tanq...straight or in a vesper...

[BinkieBaumont]

"I always remember the disappointment when discovering Bombay sapphire was not Blue, and the embarrassment of having to ask if I could have some Blue curracao , in it please waiter?"

[JennyLou]

Yesterday I tried Hendrick's for the first time - I could make out the roses (lots of them), but not the cucumbers. Not that I'd call myself an expert, the only other gins I know are Gordon's and Bombay Sapphire.

Best regards,
Captain B
Hendrick's Gin sounds like its worth a try. I have also only tried Gordon's and Bombay Sapphire.

[HodgePodge]

"I always remember the disappointment when discovering Bombay sapphire was not Blue, and the embarrassment of having to ask if I could have some Blue curracao , in it please waiter?"
:D Yeah, Bombay Saphire was the first Gin I purchased years ago when I was of age to buy booze. I don't know whether I was more disappointed that only the bottle was blue, and not the liquor contained therein, or that said liquor tasted like chewing on a christmas tree. I never bought any gin at all for quite a while after that.

I like Hendrick's. I find Bombay overpowering. I guess that makes me a 'hipster' by default.

[Ethan Bentley]

What are people's thoughts on Bombay Dry?

http://www.beveragewarehouse.com/images/products/1274.jpg

[Selentino]

Tried the Hendricks with and without the cucumber and to me it made a huge difference. Without it I was not impressed at all the taste was too watered down for me. But with the slice the gin really seemed to pop.

[jamespowers]

Tried the Hendricks with and without the cucumber and to me it made a huge difference. Without it I was not impressed at all the taste was too watered down for me. But with the slice the gin really seemed to pop.

You didn't taste the cucumber in the gin by itself? It has it in there. [huh]
I like it plain rather than smothered with botanicals such as Bombay. [huh]

[univibe88]

What are people's thought on Bombay Dry?

I don't think they sell it in the US. I've never heard of it.

[Ethan Bentley]

Really? I thought it was mostly a US only things. It's really hard to get here too.

[univibe88]

Is this what you are talking about?

http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p202/redhook88/fedoralounge/1110.jpg

If so, then it is easily available in the US. For some reason I don't think of it as Bombay "Dry." In the US if you want a drink with the gin pictured above, you would just order a "Bombay and Tonic." If you want Bombay Sapphire, you would order "Sapphire and Tonic."

Btw, I think it is terrible.

[ladybrettashley]

What is the difference between the two (other that the lovely blue bottle ;)?

[univibe88]

My best advice is to buy yourself some and try them for yourself. I can buy nips of each at my local store. The whole experiment will cost you under $10.

While you are at it, get some nips of whatever else they may have. They will likely have Beefeater and Tanqueray at the very least. Blind, side by side tasting is the best way to learn about any liquor.

Sapphire is higher in alcohol. It is also distilled with more botanicals and has a more complex taste. I find Sapphire to be spicier as well.

[carebear]

Tried the cucumber garnish in my G&T (New Amsterdam) on Sunday.

Fantastically subtle taste. I had dropped a couple slices in there and by the time I got to the bottom of the glass and fished them out they were infused and potent little snacks.

[stuartk]

Since discovering Henricks a couple of years ago, I am totally converted.

In addition to the traditional Juniper infusion, Hendrick's uses a hint of Bulgarian Rose followed by a mash of cucumber.

The final Hendrick's gin is a blend of two spirits (one Still producing a spirit which is of a heavy, oily character with a strong juniper-flavour and the other Still producing a lighter, sweeter floral flavour which gives the spirit its distinctive character). Lastly an addition of Cucumber essence and Rose petal essence.

Hendrick's suggests that the gin be served with tonic over ice garnished with cucumber instead of the traditional citrus. I do this on hot, summer days.

[Ethan Bentley]

http://i563.photobucket.com/albums/ss71/ethanbentley/hend-scales_4-199x300.jpg

[Fleur De Guerre]

I love a gin and tonic (that and Pimms and lemonade are my joint summer favourites) and I love Hendricks. When I asked for Hendricks on a trip to Babington House in Somerset, I was told they had run out, but that I might like to try Millers Gin (http://www.millersgin.com/uk.html) instead as the bar steward liked it himself. Well I did try it, and it was lovely! Still prefer Hendricks though.

[skibum69]

I'd like to try Hendrick's but I'm not sure I can get it here.

[jamespowers]

I'd like to try Hendrick's but I'm not sure I can get it here.


You should be able to get it there. Go to their website and check for your area.

[Mike in Seattle]

I don't think they sell it in the US. I've never heard of it.

Oh, it's definitely here in the US. It's pretty good - a nice change from Sapphire or other brands.

[carebear]

Ask your local liquor store(s) to get it from the distributers for you. In some cases they take a little nudging to bring out "less (locally) popular" brands.

[OddSteve]

Enjoying a Gin Tonic right now... Here's a health to all the hat wearers out there!

[skibum69]

on a job in New Brunswick and found it today. Enjoying a glass with a little ice and a slice of cucumber. The slightly floral taste is definitely a change from Sapphire or Ten. I'd like to try it in a few more incarnations such as in martinis

[ladybrettashley]

Well, i just got back from a friend's where i had Hendrick's for the first time. We had G and T's with a slice of cucumber. I must say i was quite impressed - among other things, that she had it at all. She tends to be the "whatever's cheap" sort. Apparently she was recommended Hendricks by he r girlfriend...who is allergic to gin.

So, i haven't figured out the math on that, but the drink was, nonetheless, quite good. I'm not certain that i prefer it over Bombay Sapphire - perhaps they are different enough that i would simply rather have both available.

[univibe88]

perhaps they are different enough that i would simply rather have both available.

That is how I look at it.

[DanielJones]

Since discovering Henricks a couple of years ago, I am totally converted.

In addition to the traditional Juniper infusion, Hendrick's uses a hint of Bulgarian Rose followed by a mash of cucumber.

The final Hendrick's gin is a blend of two spirits (one Still producing a spirit which is of a heavy, oily character with a strong juniper-flavour and the other Still producing a lighter, sweeter floral flavour which gives the spirit its distinctive character). Lastly an addition of Cucumber essence and Rose petal essence.

Hendrick's suggests that the gin be served with tonic over ice garnished with cucumber instead of the traditional citrus. I do this on hot, summer days.

Ah, Hendrick's. I have tried many Gins, but I alway go back to the refreshing Hendrick's.

My wife works at a local winery, and their Wine Maker is originally from Bristol. As we were talking about gin, he mentioned that he had never tried Hendrick's. Then the discussion came up about doing a blind gin sampling night to see what our favorite will be. He is on vacation in Bristol right now & will be bringing back some gin's with him (or at least having them shipped home). Should prove to be an interesting evening.

Of course my close second would be Martin Miller's Westbourne Gin. Very refreshing, especially after an eight hour exam. ;)

Cheers!

Dan

[univibe88]

. Then the discussion came up about doing a blind gin sampling night to see what our favorite will be.

Great idea! Make sure to give us details after your sampling. It promises to be very eye opening.

[jamespowers]

Saturday was a Hendrick's gin night. We had raspberry martinis.
Fill a shaker with ice.
Add
12 ounces Hendricks
1 ounce dry vermouth
3-5 ounces Torani Raspberry (depending on how raspberry tasting you want it)
Shake and serve in martini glass
Repeat. ;) :p

[rumblefish]

Saturday was a Hendrick's gin night. We had raspberry martinis.
Fill a shaker with ice.
Add
12 ounces Hendricks
1 ounce dry vermouth
3-5 ounces Torani Raspberry (depending on how raspberry tasting you want it)
Shake and serve in martini glass
Repeat. ;) :p
You got that to fit into a martini glass.:eek: :D

How are those Torani syrups? I never tried...

[jamespowers]

You got that to fit into a martini glass.:eek: :D

How are those Torani syrups? I never tried...

Not one martini glass!:rolleyes: It served three actually.:D
Torani is good as long as you get the right syrup. None of the imagined stuff they make like Rocky Road and the like are too good. :rolleyes: Regular fruit flavors are fine though---particularly peach, passionfruit, raspberry and pomegranate. :D

[Lancealot]

Not one martini glass!:rolleyes: It served three actually.:D
Torani is good as long as you get the right syrup. None of the imagined stuff they make like Rocky Road and the like are too good. :rolleyes: Regular fruit flavors are fine though---particularly peach, passionfruit, raspberry and pomegranate. :D

I enjoy the Blood Orange myself.

[carebear]

My bored bartender buddy got me on a new gin drink to mix it up a bit.

Singapore Sling.

Fortunately I'm both genuinely tough AND secure in my manhood, so I can sip fruity drinks without feeling threatened. :D

[DanielJones]

Great idea! Make sure to give us details after your sampling. It promises to be very eye opening.

Rest assured, I will take copious notes. Hopefully Neil remembers & comes through to bring back some shining examples to sample. It's something we'll do in late August or September. I'll be sure to post my results when I can.

Cheers!

Dan

[Lancealot]

I just received a 1941 copy of Mr Bostons today and noticed in the front they have a add for orange flavored Gin. That made me wonder is there a company out that still makes this?

[Nipper]

Oude Jenevers does it for me - straight out of the freezer with a twist of lime. Somehow, it's even better when you have one in Amsterdam.

[Ethan Bentley]

I just received a 1941 copy of Mr Bostons today and noticed in the front they have a add for orange flavored Gin. That made me wonder is there a company out that still makes this?

Yes, Seagrams.

I believe they also do, Lime, Grape, Apple and Raspberry. (I think the Grape one is awful).

Tanqueray Rangpur - Rangpur Lime
Baffertt's Mint Gin
Brockman's - Berry, specifically blackberry (I think).
Perigrins Cannabis?? Gin (No, this isn't a joke).
Boudier's Saffron Gin

Beefeater, in the past, have produced, Lemon, Lime, Orange and Pear (Beefeater Wet) flavoured gin.
Gordon's, in the past, have made; Orange, Lemon, Mint and Grapefruit (a gentleman has mentioned this already on this thread).

There are a lot of brands, including Gordon's, that make Sloe Gin - but this is a slightly different product those mentioned above, still lovely though. :)

[Cigarband]

I can buy nips of each at my local store. The whole experiment will cost you under $10.

How big is a "nip", and how much does it cost? We can't buy a drink of any kind in the liquor stores in Ohio.:rage:

[univibe88]

A nip is the little bottles you get on airplanes. They are 50ML.

[John in Covina]

Most people I know use the term "airline bottles" for those nips.

Ocassionally you can find what is a prepackage shot in a shot glass of tequila or similar promotions.

[Ethan Bentley]

http://i563.photobucket.com/albums/ss71/ethanbentley/th_Img_1193.jpg (http://s563.photobucket.com/albums/ss71/ethanbentley/?action=view&current=Img_1193.jpg)

They're mostly known as miniatures in the UK and I agree it is a very good way to try new varieties of gin etc. because some are great and usually some are awful.

There also the kind you get in mini bars.

[jamespowers]

....because some are great and usually some are awful.

You can say that again. :eusa_doh: ;)