The origins of the name “navy strength” gin can be traced back to the 18th Century when the British Navy played a dominant role in maritime warfare. During this time, gin (and possibly rum) was commonly stored on naval ships alongside gunpowder. This close proximity between the gin barrels and the gunpowder led to a unique characteristic of navy strength gin.
The reason behind storing gin next to the gunpowder was primarily for practical reasons. In the event of a spillage or leakage, the high alcohol content of the gin would prevent the gunpowder from becoming spoiled or damp. Gunpowder needs to remain dry and free from moisture in order to function properly. If the gunpowder were to come into contact with water or other liquids, its explosive properties could be compromised.
The alcohol content of navy strength gin is significantly higher than that of regular gin. While the exact alcohol by volume (ABV) can vary, navy strength gin typically has an ABV of around 57-58%. This higher alcohol content ensures that even if the gin were to spill and come into contact with gunpowder, it would still ignite and cause an explosion.
The term “navy strength” itself refers to this specific characteristic of gin that was suitable for naval use. It became essential for the British Navy to have a spirit that could withstand the challenges of life at sea, including potential accidents or mishaps that could endanger the gunpowder. By storing gin with a higher alcohol content next to the gunpowder, the navy could ensure that their ammunition remained effective even in challenging conditions.
It's important to note that navy strength gin is not exclusively associated with the British Navy. While its origins lie in naval history, navy strength gin has become a popular term used in the modern gin industry to describe gins with a higher alcohol content. This labeling allows consumers to identify gins that have a higher potency and robust flavor profile.
The name “navy strength” gin originated from its historical association with the British Navy. The practice of storing gin next to gunpowder on naval ships led to the development of a spirit with a higher alcohol content. This ensured that even if the gin were to come into contact with gunpowder, it would still ignite and maintain the explosive properties of the ammunition. Today, navy strength gin continues to be appreciated for its strong character and distinctive flavor.