GORDON’S DRY GIN

By Anne Stokvis
In the 17th century King Willem III of Orange brought the Dutch Genever (a gin made with different herbs) to England. At the same time the English Government imposed a heavy duty on all imported spirits but still allowed Gin to be produced. This created a market for poor-quality grain which was not useful for brewing beer and thousands of gin shops opened up throughout England. Because of the cheapness it became a popular drink among the poor and the Gin production became six times bigger than that of beer. In the next centuries it became a well known mix drink for all sort of people. Gin is used as a base for the famous Martini cocktail but most of us know it from the Gin and Tonic drink which was used as a medicine in the early
days. Tonic water contains quinine which helps to prevent Malaria. People added Gin to this medicine because the bitter taste of the quinine complements the green notes of the Gin. Although the consumption of tonic water currently has less medical use than it once did, gin and tonic remains a popular drink. Served over ice with a slice of lemon it is the perfect refreshments during the warmer months. Without the collaboration between the Dutch and the Brit’s Gin wouldn’t exist and be the popular spirit that it is now a days. Especially Gordon’s Gin with a consumption of two bottles per second! We have to give it a 9 out of 10, not only for the taste but also for the history that it carries.