The Evolution of Gin: Unlocking the essence of an exceptional spirit is akin to embarking on a voyage of artistry, craftsmanship, and patience. While the hallmarks of premium spirits have traditionally been associated with brown elixirs like whisky and cognac, the realm of gin is now basking in newfound reverence.
The Evolution of Gin
Gin, once regarded as a quick and economical spirit to produce, is now undergoing a renaissance. In 2021, the convergence of minds between master distiller Steve Wilson, formerly of Diageo, and esteemed photographer and gin aficionado Mert Alas sparked a journey to redefine gin’s essence, elevating it beyond conventional boundaries.
Despite hailing from divergent spheres, both Wilson and Alas shared an unwavering commitment to quality. Wilson, with his expertise in distillation and brand elevation, spearheaded Diageo’s foray into luxury spirits. Alas, driven by a quest for unparalleled gin, sought to create a libation that transcended the commonplace. Their collaboration birthed a vision: to craft a gin of unparalleled quality and sophistication.
Traditionally, gin production entails blending alcohol with botanicals and subjecting them to vaporization and heat. However, Wilson, alongside his son and fellow distiller Anthony, sought to transcend convention. Drawing inspiration from the refined artistry of French perfume houses, they embarked on a quest to imbue gin-making with a newfound finesse. Venturing into the inner sanctums of perfume laboratories, they observed perfumers delicately extracting botanical essences with unparalleled precision.
Their journey led them to distill each botanical individually, meticulously curating precise proportions to achieve the desired flavor profile. Among the carefully selected botanicals were Damask rose, grapefruit peel, tea leaves, and the elusive Albanian ivy. Each botanical played a distinct role, akin to harmonious notes in an orchestral composition, culminating in a symphony of flavors.
One botanical, the Queen of the Night orchid cactus, stood apart with its ethereal jasmine-like essence. So rare was this botanical that Wilson and Alas enlisted the expertise of the National Cactus Library to cultivate it exclusively for their endeavor.
Distillation, as Wilson contends, is not merely a science but an art form. Unlike a mechanized process, distillation is a sensory journey guided by the expertise of the distiller. Each batch is meticulously monitored, with the distiller relying on taste and aroma to guide the process, resulting in a spirit imbued with complexity and character.
Central to the creation of a premium gin is the resting period in casks – a departure from traditional gin-making practices. SEVENTY ONE, the culmination of Wilson and Alas’s vision, undergoes a meticulous aging process in select casks for precisely 71 nights. This resting period allows the gin to harmonize with the wood, imparting nuances of freshness, sweetness, and refinement. The result is a seamlessly balanced spirit that captivates the senses.
In the realm of luxury spirits, the true measure lies in the glass. SEVENTY ONE, with its rich and nuanced palate, is best savored neat, a testament to the dedication and artistry of its creators.
