Old Tom Gin is a historical gin style that is slightly sweeter than London Dry Gin. It’s known for its strong botanical flavors, making it ideal for prominent gin cocktails.
A Glimpse into the History of Old Tom Gin
Old Tom Gin, often hailed as the “missing link” in the evolution of gin, boasts a rich, fascinating history. It originated in England during the 18th century, a period characterized by the Gin Craze. During this era, gin was the spirit of choice for many, and there were various styles of gin available.
Old Tom Gin was one of the popular styles that emerged during this time.
Legend has it that the name ‘Old Tom’ was derived from an unconventional method of gin distribution.
Pub owners would have a wooden plaque shaped like a cat (often referred to as an “Old Tom”) mounted on the wall of their establishment. Thirsty patrons would place a penny in a slot on the ‘cat,’ and the bartender inside would pour a shot of gin through a tube, delivering it straight to the customer’s mouth!
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, however, Old Tom Gin’s popularity waned as the lighter, more refined London Dry Gin took center stage.
But in recent years, old-style gin has been making a significant comeback. Thanks to the craft cocktail movement and the renewed interest in historical spirits, Old Tom Gin is once again finding its place on the shelves of liquor stores and behind the bars of trendy establishments.
Distinct Characteristics of Old Tom Gin
- Sweetness: Unlike the crisp, juniper-forward London Dry Gin, Old Tom Gin is known for its slightly sweet profile. This sweetness typically originates from the addition of sugar post-distillation or can naturally come from the botanicals used during the distillation process.
- Botanical Flavors: Old Tom Gin is often rich in botanical flavors, which can vary significantly depending on the distiller. Common botanicals include juniper, coriander, citrus peels, and angelica root, among others.
- Color: While most gins are clear, some versions of Old Tom Gin can have a light golden hue, a result of being aged in oak barrels. However, this is not a standard feature of all Old Tom Gins.
- ABV: The alcohol content in Old Tom Gin is usually between 40 and 45%, similar to most other types of gin.
Why Old Tom Gin is Perfect for Cocktails
Old Tom Gin’s unique characteristics make it a wonderful base for cocktails. Its inherent sweetness and robust botanical flavors allow it to take a prominent role in cocktail recipes, providing a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other spirits. Here are a few classic cocktails where Old Tom Gin truly shines:
- Tom Collins: This refreshing cocktail, often served in a tall glass over ice, combines Old Tom Gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water. The sweetness and botanical flavors of Old Tom Gin balance beautifully with the tartness of the lemon and the effervescence of the soda.
- Martinez: Considered a precursor to the modern Martini, the Martinez mixes Old Tom Gin with sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters. The result is a rich, complex cocktail that showcases the full-bodied flavor of Old Tom Gin.
- Negroni: Although traditionally made with London Dry Gin, an Old Tom Negroni swaps the dry gin for Old Tom, leading to a slightly sweeter, more nuanced version of this classic cocktail.
Old Tom Gin, with its storied past and unique flavor profile, is a must-try for any gin enthusiast or cocktail aficionado. Whether enjoyed neat or as the star ingredient in a cocktail, it offers a delightful journey back in time to the golden era of gin.
