Bombay Sapphire is a gin that derives its name from a combination of historical and geographical references. The origins of its name can be traced back to the time of the British Raj in colonial India. During this period, the Royal Indian Armed Forces popularized a refreshing cocktail known as the gin and tonic, which was made using gin and tonic water.
The first part of the name, “Bombay,” refers to the city of Bombay, which is now known as Mumbai. Bombay was a significant British colonial outpost and a hub for trade and commerce. It was also renowned for its production of high-quality gin, which was highly favored by the British officers stationed in India. Thus, the name Bombay pays homage to the city's historical association with gin and its importance during the British colonial era.
The second part of the name, “Sapphire,” has a more intriguing origin. The name is inspired by the Star of Bombay, a rare and precious gemstone mined from British Ceylon, which is present-day Sri Lanka. The Star of Bombay is a violet-blue sapphire, known for its exquisite color and brilliance. This gemstone was considered a symbol of elegance and luxury, and its association with Bombay Sapphire gin adds a touch of glamour to the brand.
Interestingly, the Star of Bombay itself has an interesting story. It was discovered in Sri Lanka in the early 20th century and weighed a whopping 182 carats in its rough form. The gemstone was then cut and polished into a beautiful violet-blue sapphire, weighing around 61 carats. It became part of the Smithsonian's National Gem Collection, where it is displayed today.
The choice of the name Bombay Sapphire for the gin brand was a deliberate attempt to evoke the rich history and exotic allure of colonial India. The combination of the city's name and the gemstone's association with luxury creates an image of sophistication and refinement. It transports the drinker to a bygone era of elegance and indulgence.
In terms of the gin itself, Bombay Sapphire is known for its distinctive flavor profile, which is achieved through the use of ten botanicals during the distillation process. These botanicals include juniper berries, coriander seeds, lemon peel, almond, angelica root, orris root, cassia bark, licorice, grains of paradise, and cubeb berries. This unique blend of botanicals creates a gin that is smooth, aromatic, and versatile, making it a popular choice for both classic and contemporary cocktails.
Bombay Sapphire gets its name from the gin and tonic cocktail popularized by the Royal Indian Armed Forces during the British Raj. The name combines the historical association of Bombay (Mumbai) with gin and the allure of the Star of Bombay, a violet-blue sapphire mined from British Ceylon. This combination of historical and geographical references adds a touch of elegance and luxury to the gin brand, making it a favorite among gin enthusiasts around the world.