Is Long Drink a Seltzer?
When it comes to the beverage market, there has been a surge in popularity for hard seltzers in recent years. These bubbly, low-calorie drinks have gained a loyal following, appealing to those seeking a refreshing and lighter alternative to beer or cocktails. However, not all sparkling alcoholic beverages are created equal, and one such drink that stands apart from the rest is The Long Drink.
Unlike many hard seltzers on the market, The Long Drink is not based on fermented sugar. Instead, it is based on actual gin, making it a unique and distinct option for those looking for a different twist on a sparkling alcoholic beverage. As a sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that the use of gin as the base for The Long Drink sets it apart from traditional seltzers.
To truly understand the difference between The Long Drink and other seltzers, it's important to delve into the production process. The Long Drink originated in Finland during the 1952 Helsinki Summer Olympics. The story goes that the Finnish government wanted to create a drink that was both refreshing and invigorating for the large number of tourists visiting the country during the games. The result was a mix of gin and grapefruit soda, creating what is now known as The Long Drink.
The use of gin as the main ingredient in The Long Drink gives it a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from seltzers made with fermented sugar. Gin itself is a spirit that is typically infused with a variety of botanicals, such as juniper berries, coriander, and citrus peel. These botanicals impart unique flavors and aromas to the gin, creating a complex and nuanced base for The Long Drink.
Furthermore, The Long Drink is not just a gin and soda mix, but a carefully crafted beverage that combines the flavors of gin with grapefruit soda. This combination results in a balanced and refreshing drink that offers a more complex taste experience compared to traditional seltzers. The citrus notes from the grapefruit soda complement the botanicals in the gin, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
In terms of carbonation, The Long Drink shares similarities with seltzers. It is a sparkling beverage that is effervescent and refreshing, making it a great choice for those who enjoy the fizzy sensation of seltzers. However, the use of gin as the base sets it apart from the majority of hard seltzers, which are typically made from fermented sugar and flavored with natural or artificial flavors.
So, while The Long Drink may have some similarities to seltzers in terms of carbonation and refreshing qualities, its use of gin as the base makes it a distinct beverage in its own right. The botanical-infused gin adds depth and complexity to the drink, allowing it to stand out in a crowded market of hard seltzers.
The Long Drink is not a traditional seltzer. It is a unique sparkling beverage that is based on actual gin, rather than fermented sugar. The use of gin as the main ingredient gives The Long Drink a distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart from other seltzers on the market. If you're looking for a refreshing and complex alternative to traditional seltzers, The Long Drink is certainly worth a try.