Tom Hardy in Taboo
Gin and tonic, is a classic cocktail enjoyed by many. It has a rich a fascinating history that spans continents and centuries. From its origins as a medicinal remedy to its rise as a beloved cocktail, the history of gin and tonic is a tale of innovation, exploration, and cultural convergence. In this post, we journey through time to uncover the captivating story behind this iconic drink. When I wasn’t on shift while employed at a nightclub, I would stand at the bar some evenings and have one.
The roots of gin and tonic trace back to the 17th century when quinine, a bitter compound derived from the bark of the cinchona tree, was discovered to be effective in treating malaria. The quinine was drunk in tonic water but the bitter taste was unpleasant. However, the quinine’s intensely bitter taste made it difficult to consume. The Presidency Armies were established by the British East India Company to maintain control over the Indian subcontinent. These armies were divided into three regions: the Bengal Army, the Bombay Army, and the Madras Army. The officers serving in these armies were often faced with the challenges of tropical diseases like malaria, which led to the exploration of quinine-based remedies. To make it more palatable, British soldiers stationed in tropical colonies, particularly India, began mixing quinine with water, sugar, lime, and, eventually, gin. This combination not only masked the bitterness of quinine but also helped prevent the spread of malaria among the troops.
Bombay Sapphire is a brand of gin that is distilled by the Bombay Spirits Company. The brand was first launched in 1986. Its name originates from the gin and tonic popularized by the Royal Indian Armed Forces during the British Raj in colonial India. But that’s another story, and I’ll tell it in a different article!
A Japanese soldier being treated for Malaria
As the British Empire expanded, so did the popularity of gin and tonic. In the 19th century, the cocktail began to evolve from a medicinal concoction into a popular drink enjoyed for its distinct flavor profile. The British habit of consuming gin and tonic as a tonic water was transported back to England, where it quickly gained traction among the public. Over time, this medicinal concoction evolved into a refreshing beverage that blended the distinct flavors of gin and tonic water. The carbonation of tonic water complemented the botanical notes of gin, resulting in a balanced and enjoyable drink. The officers’ creative combination of ingredients inadvertently gave birth to the gin and tonic cocktail that is cherished today.
The introduction of commercially produced tonic water further contributed to the spread of the gin and tonic craze. Tonic water, which contained quinine and carbonation, became a key ingredient in the cocktail. Its effervescence and slightly bitter taste complemented the botanical notes of gin, resulting in a refreshing and balanced drink. During the 20th century, gin and tonic remained a staple, especially among British expatriates. However, the cocktail experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, driven by the craft cocktail movement and a renewed appreciation for classic libations. The rise of artisanal gins and small-batch tonic waters has allowed mixologists and enthusiasts to experiment with different flavor profiles, elevating the gin and tonic to new heights of creativity. Today, gin and tonic continues to be a beloved cocktail enjoyed around the world. The drink’s enduring appeal lies in its versatility, offering a canvas for various gin styles, tonic water variations, and garnishes.
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SOURCE
.bombaysapphire.com/our-story
https://www.bbc.co.uk/ideas/videos/the-hidden-history-of-gin-and-tonic/p06cfmmr