Top 10 Gins that every enthusiast needs to try

Over the last couple of years I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to try a great many Gins from all corners of the planet using all the different distillation methods under the sun, from simple to next level crazy botanicals from 4 ingredients to 47........... you get the idea.

I thought it might be time to share with you some of the really exciting Gins that are out there. There are so many great Gins available at the moment some more traditional Juniper driven and others are pushing these boundaries into new and exciting territory to me each has its place and is equally as exciting for the future of Gin.

A Journey through Gins lesser known relatives (Part 5: Navy Strength)

Navy Strength Gin is produced just like regular Gin except for its powerful 57-58% alcohol content, that’s enough to knock you on your ass quick smart if your not watching your drinks.

History

Navy Strength Gin as suggested by its name was consumed by the British Royal Navy as they cruised around the globe colonising and generally creating trouble. The British government actually regulated in the 18^th century that there Royal Navy ships should have a quantity of Gin aboard at all times.

This Gin was often stored in the same area as the Gun powder and certain savvy officers quickly realised (no doubt after particularly energetic drinking sessions) that if the Gin spilt onto the gunpowder and the gunpowder fizzled or failed when lit that there Gin was low in alcohol content.

So they discovered that Gin needed to be a minimum of 57% or in those days british 100 proof to ignite. A simple test of soaking the gunpowder in Gin and lighting it was devised as a means to ensure that there Gin was not being diluted by dodgy distillers and merchants.