Sweet gin is often referred to as Old Tom Gin. This particular style of gin gets its name from the barrels in which it was traditionally aged, known as ‘Old Toms'. Unlike modern gins, Old Tom Gin is known for its botanical intensity and sweet flavor profile.
During the time when Old Tom Gin was popular, the base spirit used for gin production was not as pure and clean as it is today. This impurity in the base spirit resulted in a gin with a slightly sweeter taste compared to contemporary gins.
The sweetness of Old Tom Gin can be attributed to a variety of factors. Firstly, the use of botanicals such as licorice root, which adds a natural sweetness to the spirit. Additionally, Old Tom Gin often contains a higher sugar content, further enhancing the overall sweetness.
The history of Old Tom Gin is quite fascinating. It originated in the 18th century in England, during the time of the gin craze. This period was marked by the proliferation of gin distilleries and the subsequent rise in gin consumption. Old Tom Gin gained popularity during this time, offering a slightly sweeter alternative to the harsher and less refined gins of the era.
In terms of the production process, Old Tom Gin is typically made using a base of neutral grain spirit, which is then infused with a range of botanicals. These botanicals can include traditional gin ingredients such as juniper berries, coriander seeds, and citrus peels, as well as additional herbs and spices to enhance the flavor and sweetness.
One of the defining characteristics of Old Tom Gin is its slightly higher sugar content compared to other gin styles. This sweetness can vary between different brands and distillers, with some Old Tom Gins having a more pronounced sweetness than others.
Old Tom Gin is versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of cocktails. It is particularly well-suited for classic gin cocktails such as the Tom Collins or the Martinez. The sweetness of the gin adds depth and complexity to these drinks, balancing out the other ingredients.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Old Tom Gin, as craft distillers have revived this traditional style. These modern interpretations of Old Tom Gin often pay homage to the historical roots of the spirit while incorporating contemporary twists and flavor profiles.
Sweet gin is commonly referred to as Old Tom Gin. This style of gin is known for its botanical intensity and slightly sweeter taste, which harkens back to a time when gin production was less refined. Old Tom Gin has a rich history and is enjoying a renaissance in the modern craft distilling movement. Its sweetness makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of cocktails.