While it’s best enjoyed with a chilled tonic and a few ice cubes, gin can also be enjoyed on its own to reveal its full complexity. Follow the guide and learn the essential steps for a successful tasting.
Temperature
When it comes to serving temperature, you have several options. At room temperature, it will reveal the full richness of its aromatic palette. Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the spirit, you can add a dash of water or a few ice cubes. The former makes it less powerful, easier to access, and brings out other aromas, while the latter reduces the sensation of alcohol and accentuates freshness.
The glass
We’ve already given you all the keys to selecting the ideal glass for a Gin & Tonic in our article Gin & Tonic: which glass to choose, but here you’ll prefer a wine glass or a tulip glass. These have the advantage of concentrating the aromas to help you better detect them. Pour about 15-20 ml of gin into your glass and start tasting.
Olfactory examination
Unlike wine, there’s no need to swirl the spirit, as the aromas can be too powerful and aggressive at first nosing. It’s a good idea to let it air out a little, and then gently bring the glass up to your nose. Gradually, various fragrances emerge. Juniper, citrus zest, spices such as pepper or ginger, aromatic herbs…this list is not exhaustive and varies according to the method of gin production and the botanicals used. From the very first breaths, you’ll also be able to assess whether the alcohol content is high or low.
Taste test
Take your first sip and prepare your palate, letting your taste buds acclimatize to the spirit and the strength of the alcohol. Which flavours stand out? Vegetal, spicy, fruity or floral? They can evoke those of the nose or reveal new ones that make up a complex whole. Spices mark the tip of the tongue, the aromatic palette is fully expressed. Which tastes seem to stand out? Does it play on creaminess or freshness? Is it crisper or smoother? Do you find it balanced? And, as a sign of quality, does it stay in the mouth a long time after swallowing? This is called persistence.
A true sensory experience in the service of aromatic discovery…all you have to do is choose your gin from our wide range!
