As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have encountered and enjoyed a wide variety of gins, including Old Tom gin. Old Tom gin is a unique category within the gin family, with its own distinct characteristics and history. But what exactly makes a gin an Old Tom gin? Let's dive into the details.
First and foremost, Old Tom gin must contain juniper, just like any other gin. Juniper is the essential botanical that gives gin its distinctive flavor. However, Old Tom gin does not have clear-cut guidelines or regulations similar to those for bourbon or tequila. This allows for a certain level of creativity and variation among different brands and distillers.
One of the defining features of Old Tom gin is its sweetness. While traditional London Dry gin is known for its dry and crisp taste, Old Tom gin often has added sugar to give it a sweeter profile. This can range from a subtle hint of sweetness to a more pronounced sugary taste. The addition of sugar can enhance the botanical flavors and create a smoother and more rounded gin.
Another factor that sets Old Tom gin apart is its aging process. While not a requirement, some Old Tom gins are aged in barrels, similar to whiskey or rum. This aging imparts additional flavors and complexity to the gin, making it richer and more nuanced. The length of aging can vary, from just a few months to several years, depending on the desired flavor profile.
In terms of base spirit, Old Tom gin can be made using a neutral base spirit or a more traditional grain spirit. A neutral base spirit is often used to create a cleaner and more neutral canvas for the botanicals to shine through. On the other hand, using a grain spirit can add depth and character to the final product, as the natural flavors of the grains interact with the botanicals during the distillation process.
It's important to note that Old Tom gin is not limited to a specific set of botanicals. While juniper is a must, other botanicals can vary widely. This allows distillers to experiment and create unique flavor profiles, ranging from citrus-forward gins to more herbal or floral expressions.
Personal experience has taught me that Old Tom gin can be incredibly versatile in cocktails. Its sweeter profile makes it a great choice for classic cocktails like the Tom Collins or the Martinez. The added sweetness can balance out the tartness of citrus and other ingredients, resulting in a well-rounded and enjoyable drink.
What makes a gin an Old Tom gin is the presence of juniper, along with the potential addition of sugar for sweetness and the option of aging in barrels. The choice of base spirit and the selection of botanicals can vary, allowing for a wide range of flavor profiles. Old Tom gin offers a unique and delightful twist on the classic gin category, and its versatility in cocktails only adds to its appeal.