Chronicle Editor
Peter Matika , Drink of the Week
THE world has turned into a Gin republic, whether you enjoy the liquor or not it has undisputedly become a great ménage across the globe.
Of course, the liquor has been around for centuries. It is a distilled alcoholic drink that derives its flavour from herbs, berries and other botanical ingredients.
About a month ago local distillery giant African Distillers Limited launched a sassy and spicy range of gins that come in different flavours and can be enjoyed by almost all.
The range was improved from the original Whitestone gin which has been in the market for years. Now with the new range, the liquor industry has just become interesting.
Besides the classic flavour AFDIS has introduced three new piquancy, namely Strawberry, Pineapple and Blackcurrant, flavours which I would liken to the historical
French adventure novel the Three Musketeers. If you are familiar with the novel or movies, you would know that the three characters are a heroic, chivalrous trio possessing amazing swordsmen ships who fight for justice.
I had the opportunity to sample the gins and out of the three I preferred the blackcurrant flavour, which
I am made to understand is the best-selling since introduction.
I will admit all three new flavours are tasty and will find appreciation from all who consume them, depending on preference.
The pineapple for me would best be a summer drink, of course basing on its lovely yellow colour.
The strawberry flavoured gin definitely will be a hit among the ladies.
I won’t delve much into the mixing part as I am not a mixologist but from what I know tonic water or tonic is the best mixer.
According to history gin originated as a medicinal liquor made by monks and alchemists across Europe.
“It’s official! Whitestone Gin is back with a refreshing new attitude and a taste to match,” said Nhlonpeng Ncube AFDIS Southern Region manager.
He said gin today is produced in different ways from a wide range of herbal ingredients, giving rise to a number of distinct styles and brands.
Gin is now being made to accommodate the palates of all individuals that prefer consuming it,” said Ncube.
He retold of a point I once mentioned in a previous article that gin is also often used as a base spirit to produce flavoured, gin-based liqueurs, for example sloe gin, traditionally produced by the addition of fruit, flavourings and sugar.
“Gin originated as a medicinal liquor made by monks and alchemists across Europe. With time it was commercialised and it is now a favourite drink for many,” said Ncube.
He said the new range of gins could be consumed by anyone and were easy on the palate.
“We maintained our original distillery methods in distilling the gins. All that is new is the flavours.
The product is already available on the market, has competitive prices and we hope to see it soon penetrating the export markets,” said Ncube.
Till next week, have a blissful and tipsy weekend.
If you have an establishment and think your drink has what it takes to be profiled, WhatsApp me on 0772337433. REMEMBER alcohol is not for sale to persons under the age of 18 and let’s not forget to drink responsibly.
Online Reporter