Gin has a mysterious and fascinating history that we still uncover today. It’s been brewed for centuries, used for medicinal purposes as early as the late 16th century, and distilled into many varieties by knowledgeable craftsmen. One of the most interesting styles of gin you may have come across is Old Tom Gin, an often overlooked type of spirit with its own unique charm and character. If you’re curious about what makes this historically-influential and aromatic liquor so special, read on to uncover all there is to know about Old Tom Gin.
What is Old Tom Gin – Definition and History
Old Tom Gin is a classic spirit with a long and storied history. First produced in 18th century England, Old Tom Gin earned its name from the wooden tomcat sculptures gracing the entrances to many gin shops nationwide. This sweetened gin was particularly popular during the Gin Craze when gin consumption soared in the United Kingdom. However, Old Tom Gin fell out of favor in the 20th century and became difficult to find. Thanks to the resurgence of craft distilling, Old Tom Gin is making a comeback, beloved for its smooth texture and hints of sweetness. Old Tom Gin is worth a taste if you’re a gin aficionado or want to try something new.
Types of Old Tom Gin – London Dry, Dutch, American, etc.
Gin has been known to be a favorite spirit among many cocktail enthusiasts. It has a refreshing taste that has wowed drinkers for centuries. You might have heard of Old Tom Gin if you’re a gin fan. This type of gin is slightly sweeter than its counterpart, London Dry gin, making it a popular choice for those just starting to explore the gin world. Besides London Dry, other types of Old Tom gins are available. For example, there is Dutch Old Tom gin, which has a more malty flavor, and American Old Tom gin, which is sweeter than most gins in the US. Each type of Old Tom gin has a unique taste that makes it stand out.
Serving Suggestions – Cocktails or Neat
When it comes to enjoying your favorite whiskey, there are two main approaches: neat or in a cocktail. If you prefer to savor the full flavor profile of the whiskey, then drinking it neat is the way to go. Sipping on a neat pour allows you to experience all the complex aromas and flavors of the whiskey without any dilution from mixers or ice. However, if you’re in the mood for something more refreshing or creative, why not try a cocktail? Many classic whiskey cocktails, such as the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan, have stood the test of time because they enhance the whiskey’s unique flavors and bring new dimensions to the drinking experience. So, whether you prefer your whiskey neat or in a tasty cocktail, you can’t go wrong with either choice. Cheers!
Fun Facts About Old Tom Gin – Interesting Trivia Related to the Drink
Old Tom Gin has a rich history and an interesting evolution that has led to its popularity in modern times. Interestingly, Old Tom Gin was developed in the 18th century when gin was often adulterated with harmful substances such as turpentine to enhance flavor. Old Tom Gin was created as a sweetened and more palatable alternative that was authentic and safe to drink. Another fun fact about Old Tom Gin is that it was often associated with crude humor and practical jokes. Bartenders would often add cat-shaped signs above the entrance to their pub as a symbol of the gin’s popularity. These facts, combined with its unique taste, make Old Tom Gin a fascinating drink that continues to captivate the palate of gin lovers even today.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Old Tom Gin is an incredibly versatile spirit with a deep, interesting past. Despite being the original gin, it was almost forgotten throughout the years. However, modern mixologists’ appreciation of aged spirits and classic cocktails is returning to contemporary culture. With a variety of styles, from London Dry to American to Dutch, each with its own flavor profiles and production processes, you can find a style of Old Tom Gin that suits your tastes perfectly. Whether you’re looking for something to sip neat or use in classic cocktail recipes such as Martinez or Negroni variations, this craft spirit will impress and give you insights into centuries of gin history in a single sip. Additionally, with fun facts such as the first known gin distillery being established by Anne de Botlehowe in 1658 or William Hogarth’s “Gin Lane” painting depicting the impact Gin had on 18th Century England, rounding out the delightfully rich history of Old Tom Gin, you can hardly argue against giving it a try today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Old Tom Gin?
A: Old Tom Gin is a classic spirit with a long and storied history. First produced in 18th century England, Old Tom Gin earned its name from the wooden tomcat sculptures gracing the entrances to many gin shops nationwide. This sweetened gin was particularly popular during the Gin Craze when gin consumption soared in the United Kingdom.
Q: What are the varieties of Old Tom Gin?
A: Other Old Tom gins are available besides London Dry. For example, there is Dutch Old Tom gin, which has a more malty flavor, and American Old Tom gin, which is sweeter than most gins in the US. Each type of Old Tom gin has a unique taste that makes it stand out.
Q: How can I enjoy drinking my favorite whiskey?
A: There are two main approaches to enjoying your favorite whiskey: neat or in a cocktail. If you prefer to savor the full flavor profile of the whiskey, then drinking it neat is the best way to go, while if you’re in for something refreshing or creative, try making some cocktails like an old-fashioned or Manhattan.