New to Gin Tasting? Here’s How to Look Like a Pro

 Great gin experiences are part of what makes Melbourne so special, especially when you pop into our bar for a blissful break while exploring the city! When you see craft gins or a premium gin & tonic tasting menu, it’s a new experience to tantalize your tastebuds, so we’ve created some pro tips to guide your journey through the best gins in town. Each sip will take you closer and closer to becoming a lifelong gin enthusiast!






 

Start with a sniff

 

Don’t take a big whiff of your gin when you first see it, or you'll end up with a face full of alcohol fumes. You don't want to be overwhelmed before you've even had a chance to taste it! Instead, gently swirl the glass to unleash the craft gin fragrances and breathe in softly with your lips slightly open, 3-4 inches from your face. Citrus, fruit, flowery, earthy, spicy, sweetness, oak, and herbs are the most prevalent scents associated with the most premium gin. What are you smelling?

Pro tip: Sniff coffee to clear your palate in between drinks - Coffee beans clear your nasal passages, allowing you to remain receptive to the more delicate and complex fragrances!

 

The temperature test

 

When you’re tasting craft gins, it will be at room temperature (21-23°C), as the flavours and fragrances don’t show off as well if it’s too hot or cold. Start the gin tasting without any ice, tonic, or garnish, but have some plain water handy for later. 

 

The taste test

 

1.     For the best gin-tasting experience, take a modest initial sip and allow the spirit to sit on your tongue before swirling it about your mouth to discover any other scents, such as citrus, liquorice, cinnamon, aniseed, or herbs. Pour a little into your glass, then take a little bit and rub it over your tongue, breathing softly to get the full impact of the various botanicals. Because the sides of your tongue have different taste buds, it's best if you let the gin coat your whole tongue. Swallow your craft gin and take a moment to see which flavours remain.

 

2.     Dilute the gin with a little plain water for your next taste. Simply mix in a drop at a time, adding more as needed to unleash the distinct layers of botanicals and spice without entirely masking the flavours. You can repeat this a few times to see how the flavours change and become more complex, which is one of the marks of great craft gins!

 

Mix it up

 

Now it’s time to try a cocktail with your favourite craft gin. A classic gin and tonic is one of the simplest and most delicious options, especially on a hot, sunny day, and it’s a terrific way to explore how the premium gin transforms into a much-loved summer drink. Then, try out a more complex cocktail – remember, you can always ask the bartender for advice – they’d love to treat you to their favourite options which can include fruit garnishes and craft mixers!

 

The best bar in town for gin experiences

 

A great cocktail bar and craft gin distillery like Brogans offers the very bestgin experiences in Melbourne! Not only do we make our own craft gins and premium gins, but we also have the most knowledgeable people leading you through this fun journey. With a great vibe in the heart of Melbourne, you and your friends will be treated to the best gins and a great vibe – the perfect arvo if we do say so ourselves! 

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