What are the rules for gin distilling?

Answered by Paul Bowser

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am delighted to share with you the detailed rules and regulations for distilling. Gin is a fascinating spirit with a rich history, and understanding its distillation process can truly enhance your appreciation for this beloved .

First and foremost, let's talk about the key ingredient in gin – juniper. The predominant flavor in all types of gin must be juniper, which gives gin its distinctive and refreshing taste. This requirement ensures that gin maintains its unique character and sets it apart from other .

In terms of content, gin must have a minimum retail strength of 37.5% alcohol by volume (abv). This standard ensures that gin has a sufficient amount of alcohol to carry and preserve its flavors. Higher alcohol content can also contribute to a smoother and more robust taste profile.

Now, let's dive into the different definitions of gin. There are three main categories: gin, distilled gin, and London Gin. Each has its own specific requirements and characteristics.

1. Gin:
– Gin is the broadest category and can be made by simply flavoring ethyl alcohol with natural or artificial flavors.
– It must have a predominant juniper flavor, but other botanicals and flavorings can be added to enhance the taste.
– The production process for gin can vary, and it may not necessarily involve distillation. This means that gin can be produced by simply infusing the flavors into the base alcohol.

2. Distilled Gin:
– Distilled gin is a step up from regular gin in terms of production method.
– It requires the base alcohol, which can be either ethyl alcohol or a spirit made from agricultural origin, to be redistilled with juniper and other botanicals.
– The redistillation process allows for a more precise extraction of flavors and ensures a higher quality and consistency in the final product.
– Distilled gin must still have a predominant juniper flavor, but other botanicals can be added to create a more complex and balanced taste profile.

3. London Gin:
– London Gin is the highest quality category of gin, known for its stringent production requirements.
– Like distilled gin, it must be produced by redistilling the base alcohol with juniper and other botanicals.
– However, London Gin has additional rules that set it apart:
A. It must be made with ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin and can only be flavored during the distillation process.
B. No artificial flavors or colors are allowed in the production of London Gin.
C. It cannot have any added sweeteners after distillation, ensuring a dry and pure taste.
D. London Gin must be distilled to a minimum of 70% abv before being diluted to its final retail strength.

It is worth noting that the EU Spirit Drink Regulations set the minimum standards for gin distillation. However, individual countries or regions may have additional regulations or requirements that gin producers must adhere to. These can include specific labeling requirements, geographical indications, or traditional production methods.

The rules for gin distillation are governed by the EU Spirit Drink Regulations, ensuring that gin maintains its juniper-forward flavor and minimum alcohol strength. Whether it's gin, distilled gin, or London Gin, the production process and botanical selection play a crucial role in creating the unique character and taste of this beloved spirit. So next time you enjoy a gin and tonic or a classic martini, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into making a quality gin. Cheers!