What do you look for when selecting a gin?
We love small-batch gin for the unique flavors they present. Ultimately, the best way to select gin is to taste it (because it all looks the same from the outside!). Many small wine and spirits shops do tastings with the distillers present, so we encourage people to get out, taste and see what flavors and aromas they like best.
What are the best uses for gin?
We love gin for classic co*cktails, including the Dirty Martini, the French 75, the Negroni and, of course, the Gin &Tonic.
What are some creative ways you’ve found to use gin, beyond the classic co*cktails?
We like to infuse gin with fresh ingredients, and then use it to create fresh takes on co*cktails like the Gin and Tonic. One of our favorite infusions is spicy cucumber gin. Beyond co*cktails, gin can also be used in cooking! For example, we’ve used it to make gin-cured gravlax or even glazed venison.
Any favorite flavor pairings for gin (herbs, fruits, seasonings, etc?)
Gin pairs best with citrus and savory flavors. Classic pairings include lemon, lime, cucumber, mint, thyme and even hot chile peppers. We love getting creative and trying new combinations!
What’s the best glassware for gin co*cktails? Any other serving suggestions?
The best glassware depends on the type of co*cktail you are making: carbonated co*cktails are traditionally served in a Collins glass, co*cktails that are served up (no ice) go in a classic co*cktail coupe, and co*cktails that are served over ice typically will go in a rocks glass.
Tell us about the Homemade Gin Kit. What was the inspiration?
We wanted to demystify the process of making gin, educate gin lovers like ourselves and bring the process of making gin out of the distillery and into the home. With the right blend of infusion ingredients, gin really isn’t that hard to make at home, and we wanted gin lovers to see how easy it is to turn generic vodka into delicious gin.
Why should people make gin at home? Any advantages?
The process of making gin at home is interactive, creative and just plain fun. Plus, it’s pretty cool to be able to say you made gin yourself! You can also go one step further and add your own tweaks to the infusion. This adds new flavors so that you can create your own unique batch of gin.
Any tips for people using the kit?
The kit provides everything you need to make a basic gin, but you can always add your own twist to the recipe by adding other ingredients. We suggest you try citrus zest, cucumber spears or fresh herbs to create your own signature gin to have on your home bar.
