Gin is one of the most loved and versatile spirits in the world, but its history is full of curiosities, transformations and anecdotes that tell its evolution from a simple distillate to a true symbol of elegance and craftsmanship. Let's discover together the origins of gin, its journey through the centuries and how it became the indispensable ingredient of iconic cocktails.

The Origins: From Juniper to Medicine

Gin has ancient roots that date back to the Middle Ages. Its birth is linked to the use of juniper , the berry that gives gin its characteristic aroma. Originally, herbal and berry distillates were created for medicinal purposes, especially in European monasteries, where people sought to exploit the therapeutic properties of plants.

The first direct ancestor of gin is juniper spirit , an alcoholic beverage flavored with juniper berries produced in the Netherlands in the 17th century. It was there that Genever , the precursor of modern gin, was born, which is also used as a medicine.

The English Rise: “Dutch Courage” and the “Gin Craze”

Gin arrived in England in the 17th century, brought mainly by the Dutch and trade. Due to its ease of production and low cost, it quickly became popular, especially among the lower classes. During the Thirty Years' War, British soldiers drank gin before battle to find courage, hence the nickname "Dutch courage" .

However, this uncontrolled spread led to a period known as the “Gin Craze” in the first half of the 18th century, when gin was consumed excessively, causing serious social problems. The British authorities intervened with restrictive laws to control its production and sale, but gin remained deeply rooted in English culture.

The refinement and birth of modern gin

In the 19th century, gin underwent a revolution with the introduction of column distillation, which allowed for a purer and more delicate spirit. Producers began to experiment with different botanicals, resulting in a wider range of flavors.

During this period, the famous London Dry Gin was born, characterized by a dry and clean taste, which lent itself well to being mixed in cocktails. Gin became the main ingredient of many classic recipes such as the Martini, the Negroni and the Gin Tonic.

Gin Today: Craftsmanship and Innovation

Today, gin is enjoying a new golden age. Its production has returned to being an art, with artisanal distilleries showcasing local botanicals and creative processes. From classic London Dry to more aromatic and experimental gins, the world of gin offers endless taste possibilities.

Not only the protagonist of cocktails, gin is also a symbol of sociality, discovery and tradition. Every sip tells a story made of botanicals, passion and innovation.