The Full Guide to Pink Gin: Origin, Varieties, and the Perfect Serve

Whether you're a gin enthusiast or new to the world of craft cocktails, Pink Gin is a must-know. This classic cocktail has a rich history and a deceptively simple recipe. In this guide, we'll explore the origins, different varieties, and how to make the perfect Pink Gin.

What is Pink Gin?

Pink Gin, also known as 'Pink Plymouth' after a specific style of gin, is not just about the color. Traditionally, Pink Gin was a blend of gin and a dash of Angostura bitters, which impart a vibrant red hue and a subtle sweetness to the gin. Nowadays, commercial varieties of Pink Gin incorporate a range of red fruits, aiming to enhance the flavor profile.

Origins and History

The story of Pink Gin began with Angostura Bitters, a liqueur originally created to help with seasickness. Its reddish color and wrists-strengthening properties made it a popular choice among sailors. When mixed with gin, the bitters transformed into a more palatable and aromatic drink, hence the Pink Gin we know today. While the medicinal purpose is long gone, the cocktail has retained its popularity and charm.

How to Make the Perfect Pink Gin

Making a classic Pink Gin is surprisingly simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect serve:

Ingredients Needed:

1 2 dashes Angostura Bitters 2 ounces Plymouth Gin or Tanqueray Lemon peel (optional)

Steps:

Clean a chilled cocktail glass. Option 1: Swirl 23 dashes of Angostura bitters in the glass. Option 2: Pour the bitters out of the glass. Fill the glass with 2 ounces of chilled Plymouth Gin. Top off with a strip of lemon peel if desired and garnish.

The choice of whether to leave the bitters in the glass or not is called the 'In or Out' debate. Many prefer to taste the bitters as they enjoy the added depth of flavor. Others leave them out for a cleaner profile.

Varieties and Modern Twists

While the classic Pink Gin remains a favorite, there are many varieties and modern twists that you can try:

Pink Plymouth

This is the traditional style of Pink Gin, made with Plymouth Gin and Angostura Bitters. Plymouth Gin is known for its milder, more citrusy flavor, making it an excellent base for this cocktail.

Pink Malacca

If you're looking for a more complex and slightly spicier flavor, Tanqueray Malacca is a great alternative. Its rich flavor profile can be enhanced with less bitters, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer a more subtle sweetness.

The Pink Gin Experience

The experience of drinking a Pink Gin is all about savoring every nuance. As you take the first sip, the balanced mix of gin and bitters will delight your senses. The reddish hue in the glass is not just aesthetically pleasing but enhances the overall experience.

Tips for Drinking Pink Gin

Enjoy Pink Gin on ice for a refreshing and cool sipping experience. Experiment with different garnishes to enhance the flavor, such as a slice of cucumber or a dash of rosemary. Drink it as an aperitif before a meal or as an après-dinner digestif to cleanse your palate and aid digestion.

Conclusion

Pink Gin is more than just a cocktail; it’s a journey through flavors and history. From its roots as a medicinal mix for sailors to its current status as a versatile and beloved drink, Pink Gin continues to captivate cocktail enthusiasts and novices alike. Whether served 'in' or 'out,' the bitters, and with or without lemon peel, the Pink Gin experience is a memorable one.