Gin is not made from vodka and juniper berries. While both gin and vodka are neutral spirits, they are crafted differently and have distinct characteristics. Let's delve into the process of making gin and vodka to understand their differences.
Gin is a spirit that is flavored with a variety of botanicals, with the prominent flavor being juniper berries. To be classified as gin, it must contain juniper berries as one of its primary ingredients. The juniper berries provide gin with its signature pine-like flavor and aroma. However, gin is not made from vodka; it is a separate category of spirit altogether.
On the other hand, vodka is a neutral spirit that is typically made from grains, such as wheat, rye, or corn. It goes through a distillation process that removes impurities and flavors, resulting in a clean and neutral taste. Vodka is known for its versatility and is often used as a base for cocktails due to its ability to blend well with other ingredients without overpowering them.
To make gin, a base spirit is first produced through a similar distillation process as vodka. This base spirit can be made from various ingredients, including grains, grapes, or even potatoes. Once the base spirit is obtained, it is then infused with botanicals, with juniper berries being a key component. Other botanicals commonly used in gin production include coriander, citrus peel, angelica root, orris root, and various spices and herbs.
The process of infusing the base spirit with botanicals is known as “maceration” or “compounding.” The botanicals are typically added to the base spirit and left to steep for a period of time, allowing the flavors and aromas to be extracted. Alternatively, some gins are made using a method called “vapor infusion,” where the botanicals are placed in a basket or chamber during distillation, allowing the steam to pass through and pick up their flavors.
Once the maceration or vapor infusion process is complete, the gin is usually distilled again to refine the flavors and remove any unwanted impurities. This final distillation ensures that the gin is smooth and well-balanced.
Gin is not made from vodka and juniper berries, but rather it is a distinct spirit that is flavored with juniper berries and other botanicals. Vodka, on the other hand, is a neutral spirit that is typically made from grains and goes through a different distillation process. The presence of juniper berries is what sets gin apart from vodka, and without them, the spirit would not be classified as gin.