Quinine is indeed found in certain alcoholic beverages, particularly in bitters, aperitif wines, and vermouths. These types of drinks often contain quinine as an ingredient, and this can be traced back to their historical use in combating malaria.
During periods when malaria was prevalent, such as in the 19th century, quinine was a widely used treatment for the disease. It was believed to effectively fight off the malaria parasite and was often administered in the form of tonic water. The bitter taste of quinine led to the addition of sweeteners and other flavorings, giving rise to the creation of tonic water as we know it today.
As time went on, the inclusion of quinine in alcoholic beverages became more widespread. Bitters, for example, are often used as flavoring agents in cocktails and are known for their bitter taste. Many bitters, such as Angostura and Peychaud's, contain quinine as one of their key ingredients. The addition of quinine adds a distinct bitter flavor profile to these drinks, enhancing their overall taste.
Aperitif wines and vermouths also commonly contain quinine. These fortified wines are infused with a variety of herbs, spices, and botanicals, including quinine, to create a complex flavor profile. Vermouth, in particular, is known for its use in classic cocktails like the Martini and Negroni, where the inclusion of quinine contributes to the overall balance and complexity of these drinks.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have come across numerous alcoholic beverages that contain quinine. The presence of quinine is often mentioned on the labels or in the product descriptions of these drinks. It is fascinating to see how the historical use of quinine for medicinal purposes has influenced the development of various alcoholic beverages and their flavor profiles.
To summarize, quinine can be found in certain alcoholic beverages, particularly bitters, aperitif wines, and vermouths. These drinks often contain quinine as a nod to their historical use in fighting malaria. The inclusion of quinine adds a distinct bitter taste and enhances the overall flavor profile of these beverages.