Apple Mint in Gin: A Botanical Journey
Apple mint, a fragrant and versatile herb, has found its way into gin, adding a unique twist to this beloved spirit. Known for its sweet, refreshing aroma and flavour, apple mint has become a favourite among gin distillers, particularly in Scotland. This blog explores the history of apple mint in gin, its uses, tasting notes, and its significance in Scottish gin culture.
The History of Apple Mint in Gin
Gin, a spirit with a rich history, has evolved significantly since its inception. Originating from a 16th-century juniper-infused liquor called 'jenever' in the Netherlands, gin was brought to the UK by British troops returning from the Dutch War of Independence. Over the centuries, gin has seen various botanical infusions, with apple mint being a relatively recent addition. Apple mint, also known as Mentha suaveolens, is a perennial herb native to southern and western Europe. Its sweet, fruity aroma and flavour make it an excellent botanical for gin, complementing the traditional juniper and other botanicals used in gin production.
Apple Mint in Scottish Gin
Renowned for its whisky, Scotland has also made a significant mark in the gin industry. Scottish gin accounts for 70% of the UK's overall gin production, with many distilleries incorporating local botanicals to create unique flavours. Apple mint is one such botanical that Scottish gin makers have embraced.
Shetland Reel Gin
Shetland Reel, a distillery located on the island of Unst, uses apple mint in several of its gins. Their Original Gin features apple mint as a critical botanical, giving it a unique, authentic flavour of Shetland. The gin has a hint of juniper on the nose, mixed spices, sweetness with a citrus tang, and a refreshing hint of mint on the finish.
The Botanist
The Botanist, produced by the Bruichladdich Distillery on Islay, is another Scottish gin incorporating apple mint. This gin is known for its 31 botanicals, 22 hand-foraged from the Isle of Islay. Apple mint and other local botanicals give The Botanist its distinct flavour profile.
Tasting Notes
Apple mint imparts a sweet, refreshing flavour to gin, often described as fruity and slightly mentholated. Here are some tasting notes from gins that feature apple mint:
Shetland Reel Original Gin: The nose has a hint of juniper with a subtle mix of spices and citrus. The initial palate has juniper, mixed spice, sweetness with a citrus tang, and a refreshing hint of mint at the end. The finish is clean and fresh.
The Botanist: This gin has a complex flavour profile with a balance of sweet and herbal notes. The apple mint adds a subtle sweetness and a refreshing finish, complementing the other botanicals.
Uses in Gin Cocktails
Apple mint's versatility makes it a popular choice for gin cocktails. Here are a few cocktail recipes that highlight the refreshing qualities of apple mint:
Green Apple Gimlet
Ingredients:
50 ml gin (preferably Hendrick's)
75 ml apple juice
four ice cubes
two ribbons cucumber
one slice green apple
one sprig fresh mint
Instructions:
Place the gin, apple juice, and ice cubes into a cocktail shaker and shake well until combined and cool.
Line your glass with cucumber ribbons before pouring the cocktail into the glass.
Top with a slice of green apple and a sprig of mint.
English Garden Cocktail
Ingredients:
25 ml Gordon's Crisp Cucumber Gin or gin of your choice
50 ml apple juice
20 ml lime juice
20 ml sugar syrup
one leaf mint
one slice cucumber
Instructions:
Fill a shaker with ice.
Add gin, apple, lime, and sugar syrup to the shaker.
Shake until cold.
Strain into a martini glass.
Garnish with a slice of cucumber and a mint leaf.
Apple mint has carved out a niche in gin, particularly in Scotland, where it adds a unique, refreshing twist to traditional gin recipes. Its sweet, fruity aroma and flavour make it a versatile botanical, enhancing the complexity and depth of gin. Whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, gins featuring apple mint offer a delightful experience for gin enthusiasts.
