Ransom Old Tom Gin is a classic gin that has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique flavor profile and historical significance. This gin is crafted by Ransom Spirits, a distillery based in Oregon that prides itself on its commitment to quality and traditional production methods.
The story behind Ransom Old Tom Gin is quite fascinating. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, gin was a highly popular spirit in the United States. However, with the onset of Prohibition in 1920, the production and sale of alcoholic beverages became illegal, leading to the decline of many spirits, including gin.
Fast forward to the early 21st century, and a resurgence of interest in classic cocktails and traditional spirits began to take hold. This revival sparked the interest of Ransom Spirits, who sought to bring back the flavors of the past by re-creating a gin that was popular during the pre-Prohibition era.
To bring this vision to life, Ransom Spirits enlisted the expertise of industry legend David Wondrich. Wondrich is a renowned cocktail historian and author, known for his extensive research on the history of spirits and cocktails. His knowledge and passion for the subject made him the perfect collaborator for Ransom Spirits in their quest to re-create a classic gin.
Ransom Old Tom Gin is inspired by the traditional style of gin that was popular in the 19th century. This style of gin is known for its slightly sweeter and more rounded flavor profile compared to the dry gins that are more commonly consumed today. The sweetness comes from the addition of botanicals such as licorice root and orange peel, which give the gin a unique depth of flavor.
The production process for Ransom Old Tom Gin is meticulous and reflects the distillery's commitment to quality. The gin is made using a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The base spirit is made from malted barley, which is fermented and then distilled in small pot stills. This method allows for greater control over the distillation process and results in a spirit with more character and complexity.
After distillation, the gin is then aged in oak barrels to further develop its flavors. This aging process imparts subtle notes of vanilla and spice, adding another layer of complexity to the final product. Once aged to perfection, the gin is then bottled and labeled by hand, ensuring that each bottle is a true labor of love.
Ransom Old Tom Gin has quickly gained a reputation among cocktail enthusiasts and bartenders for its versatility and unique flavor profile. It can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, but truly shines when used as a key ingredient in classic cocktails such as the Martinez or Tom Collins.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting Ransom Old Tom Gin on multiple occasions. Its distinctive flavor and smooth finish make it a standout gin in a crowded market. The attention to detail and commitment to quality that Ransom Spirits brings to their production process is evident in every sip.
Ransom Old Tom Gin is a re-creation of a classic gin that was popular during pre-Prohibition times. Crafted by Ransom Spirits in collaboration with industry legend David Wondrich, this gin showcases the flavors and techniques of the past while maintaining a modern appeal. Its unique flavor profile and meticulous production process make it a standout choice for cocktail enthusiasts and those looking to explore the world of classic spirits.