The Renaissance of Gin

Hendricks G&T A longstanding success in the gin industry,this or any high-quality label together withtonic is simplicity at its finest. Its distinct,perfumed aroma is unmistakable combinedwith a fresh note of cool cucumber.

The Renaissance of Gin

text yiota mallas

photography LOUCA STUDIOS

With its traditional legacy back in the spotlight and its botanical notes inspiring new concoctions, this retro spirit is embarking on its own renaissance.

Flamingo Just like the bird’s touch of pink on thesalt lakes of Cyprus, here it’s creolebitters that makes a splash. Tanqueray10 with its balanced blend of citrusy andearthy tones offers a robust backgroundto this exotic mixer of dried apricots,cherries and cranberries. Gin Mare The hotel’s Cyprus Mountain Tea – ablend of ten herbs from Mesa Potamosmonastery – is converted into an icedherbal sphere. Fused with the uniquecomposition of Gin Mare, this botanicalbubble creates a bouquet of naturalgoodness with every sip.

Its heritage spans 500 years and yet, until recently, gin was experiencing an all-time lull in popularity. It carried a vice-like reputation for after dinner. as the treacherous sidekick of heavy drinkers. However, this retro spirit is embarking on its own renaissance, with its traditional legacy back in the spotlight and its botanical notes inspiring new concoctions. Vista Bar Manager Marios Demosthenous explains: “Older, classic gin drinkers are still avid fans; but now gin consumption is a growing trend for the younger generation. It has found a way to capture our imagination, beyond the gin and tonic.”

What began as a Dutch invention for medicinal purposes is now raising the stakes in sophisticated mixology. There is no better time to enjoy this juniper infused spirit with the super-premium variations starring on every top shelf. “Discerning drinkers are conscious of what passes their lips and will specify their preferred label and inquire about the newcomers,” says Marios. Unlike other spirits, the taste spectrum with gin is particularly wide, from subtle and floral to punchy and dry. Coriander and citrus are the botanicals commonly used to add complexity and layers of flavour, however, elite brands take alchemy up a few notches. Hendricks boasts infusions of rose and cucumber, and Tanqueray No.10 is distilled four times and highlighted with flavours of grapefruit, orange and lime.

Many artisanal distilleries are seeking to lead the craft gin industry with their ‘small batch’ philosophy, producing limited collections of the three main varieties – standard, premium and London Dry. This flourishing market of boutique top-end brands is scattered globally, but one in particular is blessed with the flavours of the Mediterranean. The award-winning Gin Mare from Spain is a medley of herbal and citrus flavours such as arbequina olive, rosemary, thyme, basil and mandarin. It offers an aromatic palate finished with a zesty kick that is pleasantly surprising.

Not only has the nature of gin changed, but consumers’ perception of it has been groundbreaking too. And with high calibre variations now available, gin innovation is a taste experience with a hint of adventure.

Negroni They say three’s a crowd; but not in thecase of this timeless trio that makes upthis irresistible elixir. Campari, vermouthrosso and premium gin in equal parts arelightly stirred to create a bold, full-bodiedrefresher where each ingredient holds itsown. Traditionally an aperitif, its spicypalate-cleansing undertones are what you’re