Gin: history, production, and styles of a spirit with character

history of gin · types of gin · how gin is made · premium gin · botanicals

Elegant, versatile, and full of nuances. Gin has managed to reinvent itself and win over spirit lovers worldwide. At Bouquet Xaló, we offer a carefully curated selection of national and international gins—from classics to artisanal creations like Minoric, Menorca's most exclusive gin—perfect for those looking to discover the botanical soul of this spirit.

A journey to its origins: from apothecary to cocktail

The history of gin begins in the ancient laboratories of medieval alchemists and apothecaries. It was a 17th-century Dutch physician, Franciscus Sylvius, who created an alcoholic beverage based on juniper for medicinal purposes: "genever". From the Netherlands, this formula crossed the English Channel, and the British adopted, adapted, and popularized this drink, transforming it into the gin we know today.

During the 18th century, amidst the "Gin Craze" in London, gin consumption skyrocketed. What started as a natural remedy became part of Europe's social and cultural life, eventually becoming a pillar of the cocktail world.

How is gin made?

The alcoholic base of gin is usually neutral (often from grain), but what truly defines it are the botanicals. Among them, juniper is mandatory: it is the soul of every gin.

The process includes:

1. Base Distillation: starting with a rectified neutral alcohol.
2. Botanical Infusion: botanicals can be cold-macerated or introduced into stills using methods like vapor infusion distillation.
3. Final Distillation: aiming to obtain an aromatic, balanced, and characterful beverage.
4. Reduction and Bottling: adjusting the alcohol content (usually between 37.5% and 47%) and bottling.

Among the most common botanicals: angelica root, coriander, citrus, cardamom, pink peppercorn, lavender, or licorice.

Styles of Gin

Over time, various styles have emerged, each with its own personality:

• London Dry Gin: the most classic and dry. Very aromatic, with no added sugars, ideal for a good gin and tonic.
• Plymouth Gin: smoother and earthier, with a designation of origin (only produced in Plymouth, England).
• Old Tom Gin: slightly sweet, ideal for vintage cocktails like the Tom Collins. At Bouquet Xaló you can find Hayman's authentic Old Tom.
• Contemporary or "New Western" Gin: alternative botanicals take precedence over juniper. Creative and aromatic.
• Infused Gins: with fruits, flowers, or spices, they usually have vibrant colors and pronounced aromas.
• Artisanal Gins: from small producers, with limited batches and careful distillation. Like Minoric, made in Menorca with local ingredients and Mediterranean essence.

Gins at Bouquet Xaló

In our store, you'll find everything from classic English gins to more modern and exclusive selections, chosen for their authenticity and quality. We champion both established brands and artisanal projects that explore new botanical profiles, ideal for a perfect gin and tonic or signature cocktails.

More than a spirit, an aromatic experience

Gin is a world unto itself: herbal, spicy, floral, citrusy… Each bottle tells a different story. At Bouquet Xaló, we invite you to discover it, glass in hand, with our selection of unique gins that awaken the senses and open the door to new ways of toasting.