What is Navy Strength Gin?
Contents
Gin, a spirit that originated in the Middle Ages, has undergone a significant transformation over the centuries. With the rise of craft distilleries and innovative distillation techniques, gin has become a diverse and exciting category of spirits. Among the various types of gin, Navy Strength Gin stands out as a unique and distinctive variant. But what exactly is Navy Strength Gin?
Navy Strength Gin is a type of gin that has a higher ABV (Alcohol By Volume) than standard gin. Specifically, Navy Strength Gin is defined as gin with an ABV of at least 57%. This is significantly higher than standard gin, which typically has an ABV of around 37-40%.
Why is it called Navy Strength Gin?
The name "Navy Strength" originates from the early 19th century, when the British Royal Navy would issue its sailors a ration of gin to calm their nerves and ward off scurvy. To ensure that the gin remained potent and effective, the Navy would specify a minimum ABV of 57% to prevent the spirit from becoming watered down during transportation and storage.
Navy Strength Gin is known for its bold, robust flavor profile, which is due to its higher ABV and the way it is distilled. Here are some key characteristics of Navy Strength Gin:
• More intense botanicals: With a higher ABV, Navy Strength Gin can pack a punch when it comes to botanicals. You may notice more pronounced flavors of juniper, coriander, and citrus, which are typical of gin.
• Fuller body: Navy Strength Gin tends to have a fuller, more luxurious texture than standard gin, thanks to its higher ABV.
• Warmer, spicier taste: The higher ABV of Navy Strength Gin can give it a warmer, spicier taste than standard gin, which is often described as crisp and refreshing.
The production process of Navy Strength Gin is similar to that of standard gin, but with some key differences. Here are the general steps involved:
• Distillation: Navy Strength Gin is distilled using a combination of pot stills and column stills, just like standard gin. However, Navy Strength Gin is typically distilled to a higher proof than standard gin, which means it has a higher ABV.
• Flavor profile: The distiller will select a range of botanicals to create the desired flavor profile, which may include juniper, coriander, citrus, and other spices.
• Blending: The distiller will blend the gin to create a balanced flavor profile, taking into account the intensity of the botanicals and the desired ABV.
• Aging: Some Navy Strength Gins may be aged in oak barrels, which can add complexity and depth to the flavor profile.
While there are many types of gin, Navy Strength Gin is a distinct category within the gin world. Here are some examples of Navy Strength Gins:
| Brand | ABV | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Pimm’s No. 1 | 57% | A classic Navy Strength Gin with a rich, full-bodied flavor profile |
| Beefeater Navy Strength | 57% | A bold, intense Navy Strength Gin with a focus on juniper and coriander |
| Plymouth Navy Strength | 57% | A robust, full-bodied Navy Strength Gin with a complex flavor profile |
| Sipsmith Navy Strength | 57.7% | A premium Navy Strength Gin with a rich, creamy texture and a focus on botanicals |
Conclusion
Navy Strength Gin is a unique and distinctive type of gin that offers a bold, intense flavor profile and a higher ABV than standard gin. With its rich history and robust flavor, Navy Strength Gin is a must-try for any gin enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned gin connoisseur or just looking to try something new, Navy Strength Gin is sure to delight.
