[October 2016] My first memory of Gin is growing up in my parents’ pub during the seventies. Small bottles of Schweppes tonic, a slice of lemon that I am sure came from a jar, crescent-shaped cloudy ice and of course Gordons. Despite being too young to drink, it did not stop me being utterly disgusted by the burning soapy flavours experienced when I sneaked into the bar and tried the various spirits from the optics.
Towards the late eighties, studying in Manchester, I struck a deal with a fellow student. In exchange for my keyboard skills, to help deliver a 10,000-word paper, he offered to supply the G&Ts. A pint glass was sourced. Filled with ice. One-third Gordons, two-thirds tonic. No garnish. It was delicious. On the rare occasions, I have Gordons, it takes me back to those moments.
I like a lot of things. Let’s take it the family and friends are a given. I like good wine. I like good food. I like good beer. But the one thing I really like is Gin. I have a Gin Thing. I am not a Gin aficionado. However, through my very subjective view, I have an understanding of what I like and what I do not. Through this blog, I intend to leave a diary of my Gin travels.
In the GinThing house, Gin is often served on Saturday evening and a Sunday afternoon, whilst Mrs GinThing and I are cooking. We savour those first sips, like an old friend visiting once more. We do not abuse the moment, more often than not it will be, just the one. It is an equal balance of the process and flavours. The cutting of the lime, or the chilli or perhaps picking some mint from the garden. Patiently pouring the carefully considered choice of Gin over the ice, watching, as it transforms into satisfying clear cubes. On to the tonic, matchmaking, ensuring the marriage of garnish, gin and tonic meet expectations. The slow pour, ever so carefully, as to maximise the effervescence. And finally, lifting the gin for the first sip, taking note of the quinine and juniper scents. Perfect.
Well, not always, but the experience of the last helps with the next. This tonic with that gin. That garnish with this glass. It all makes a difference and discovering those differences is what I enjoy the most. You are invited to follow my continuing journey. There will be brief moments on Twitter and Instagram and more considered musings here. Welcome to GinThing.
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