Begin the year with a celebration of gin, a spirit both sophisticated and delightful, during the entire month of January.
Recognized as Ginuary, this month is dedicated to exploring and enjoying the various facets of this versatile drink.
Ginuary Calendar: Quick Facts
- When is it? Every January
- Tags: Alcohol, Food & Drink, Spirits & Liquors
- Missing something? Ginuary isn’t just about the classic gin martini or gin and tonic. It’s an opportunity to get creative and explore the many dimensions of gin.
The History of Ginuary
Gin’s intriguing history begins in Europe, possibly deriving its name from the Flemish word “genever” or “jenever,” which evolved into “gin.” Distilled from grain and flavored with juniper berries and other botanicals, gin was initially cherished for its medicinal properties. Its roots may extend back to 11th-century monks in Southern Italy, who produced spirits from juniper trees.
The popularity of gin soared in 17th-century England under the rule of Queen Mary II and King William III. The English showed their support for Dutch King William by favoring gin over brandy.
Over the centuries, gin has transformed significantly, evolving from cheaper versions possibly flavored with turpentine to the purer and more diverse options available today.
Ginuary Timeline
- 1550: Gin distillation starts in the Netherlands for medicinal purposes.
- 1617: The first mention of juniper-based spirit in Sir Hugh Plat’s “Delights for Ladies.”
- 1688: Gin gains popularity in England as a patriotic gesture during King William III’s reign.
- 1769: Gordon’s Gin company is founded in London, its secret recipe remains unchanged.
- 1952: Queen Elizabeth II, known for her daily gin and Dubonnet cocktail before lunch, ascends to the throne.
Celebrating Ginuary
Try a New Type of Gin!
Ginuary is an excellent opportunity to sample unique gins:
- Castle & Key Rise Gin: An annually changing seasonal recipe featuring botanicals like rose petals and green cardamom.
- Malfy Gin: An Italian gin with a range of flavors, including Original, Gin Rosa, Con Limone, and Con Arancia.
- Fair Gin: A French gin embodying ethical, fair trade, and environmental principles, known for its floral notes.
- Minke Gin: An Irish gin inspired by the minke whales off the Atlantic coast, made with sea fennel and whey from a family-owned farm.
Gin Sales and Discounts
January is the perfect month to restock your gin collection with various discounts and offers available post-Christmas.
Explore New Gin Recipes
- Grape, Rosemary and Gin Crush: A mix of rosemary, grapes, lemon juice, gin, ice, and sparkling water.
- Gin-gin Mule: Combines ginger beer, lime juice, gin, simple syrup, and mint.
- Greyhound Cocktail: A simple mix of grapefruit juice and gin.
- Tomato Spritz: A concoction of prosecco, club soda, gin, vermouth, tomato water, and a cherry tomato shrub.
Follow in Queen Elizabeth II’s Footsteps
Emulate Queen Elizabeth II by enjoying a daily gin drink and perhaps trying the Buckingham Palace’s small batch dry gin, made with herbs from the palace gardens.
Ginuary FAQs
- What is gin made from? So what is Gin? Gin is distilled from grain, juniper berries, and various botanicals.
- What does gin taste like? It typically has a pine needle flavor with herbal undertones.
- Does gin go bad? Gin can last for years after opening if stored properly away from heat and sunlight.
- Can gin be stored in the freezer? Many prefer to keep gin in the freezer for freshness.
- What’s the best way to enjoy gin? Gin can be enjoyed in various cocktails or simply served straight up and chilled.
Check out more drinkies’ days of celebration on our drinking days of the year calendar.
