Gin 101: From Garden to Glass - A Botanical Journey in Mixology
Pink Gin
The Pink Gin cocktail is a simple yet flavorful libation known for its elegant appearance and balanced taste. Originating in the 19th century among British sailors, it was originally enjoyed as a medicinal tonic to alleviate seasickness. The cocktail's distinctive pink hue comes from the addition of aromatic bitters, which also impart a unique flavor profile to the drink.
Ingredients and Tools:
60 ml (2 oz) gin
A few dashes of aromatic bitters
Ice cubes
Mixing glass
Mixing spoon
Jigger
Cocktail strainer
Chilled coupe glass or old-fashioned glass
Preparation Steps:
Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
Measure and pour 60 ml (2 oz) of gin into the mixing glass.
Add a few dashes of aromatic bitters to the gin.
Stir the mixture gently with a mixing spoon for about 20-30 seconds to chill the ingredients and properly incorporate the bitters.
Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass or old-fashioned glass.
Optionally, garnish with a lemon twist or a cocktail cherry.
Flavor Profile:
The Pink Gin cocktail offers a harmonious balance of botanical flavors from the gin and the aromatic complexity of the bitters. It has a smooth and slightly spicy taste with a subtle pink hue, making it a sophisticated choice for cocktail enthusiasts.
Mixoloco - Mixology Tips:
Choosing the Right Gin: The choice of gin greatly influences the flavor of the Pink Gin cocktail. I think that a classic London dry gin works best, providing a strong foundation for the cocktail's flavor.
Balancing Bitters: The amount of aromatic bitters used can vary depending on personal preference. Start with a few dashes and adjust according to taste. Don't be afraid to experiment with different bitters to find your ideal balance.
Chilling Technique: Properly chilling the Pink Gin cocktail is essential for achieving the ideal drinking temperature. Stirring the cocktail with ice for about 20-30 seconds ensures proper dilution and chill without compromising the flavors. I prefer stirring the Pink Gin cocktail rather than shaking it to maintain a silky-smooth texture and prevent excessive aeration.
Garnish Options: While a lemon twist or a cocktail cherry are classic garnishes for the Pink Gin cocktail, consider experimenting with other options such as grapefruit zest or a sprig of fresh rosemary for a unique twist.