When it comes to the question of whether gin is infused vodka, the answer is yes. Gin can be classified as a type of infused vodka. To understand this, it's important to first understand what vodka is and how it relates to other spirits.
Vodka is often referred to as the “conception spirit” because it serves as the base for many other distilled spirits. It is typically made from fermented grains or potatoes and is distilled to a high alcohol content. Vodka is known for its neutral flavor profile, which allows it to be a versatile base for creating other spirits.
Gin, on the other hand, is a spirit that is flavored with a variety of botanicals, most notably juniper berries. These botanicals are added during the distillation process to infuse the vodka with their flavors. This is what gives gin its distinctive taste and aroma.
To make gin, you start with a base of vodka and then add these botanicals. The exact recipe and combination of botanicals can vary depending on the brand and style of gin being produced. Common botanicals used in gin production include juniper, coriander, citrus peels, angelica root, and many others.
The process of infusing vodka with botanicals to create gin is not a new one. In fact, gin has been produced in this way for centuries. The use of botanicals not only adds flavor to the vodka but also gives gin its unique character and complexity.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore and taste a wide variety of gins. Each one has its own distinct flavor profile, influenced by the choice and combination of botanicals used in its production. Some gins have a more pronounced juniper flavor, while others may emphasize citrus or herbal notes.
It's also worth noting that there are different styles of gin, such as London dry gin, Plymouth gin, and Old Tom gin, each with its own set of regulations and flavor profiles. These variations further highlight the versatility and complexity of gin as a spirit.
Gin can indeed be classified as an infused vodka. By adding traditional gin botanicals, such as juniper, to a base of vodka, you can create a spirit with its own unique flavors and characteristics. The process of infusing vodka with botanicals has been practiced for centuries and has resulted in the wide range of gins that we enjoy today.