Page 31 - Thirst Magazine Issue 1 (Feb 2017)

HIGH GRADE VODKAS you distil, the more it leaves a smoother taste
as impurities are left in the still. Generally
Like anything in life, the end result of any big vodka brands distil 3-5 times. It also has
product of high quality is a combination of a lot to do with how vodka is filtered after
love, effort, knowledge and knowing how to distillation. Filtering through charcoal, carbon
market it. In the case of vodka, a lot of quality or Champagne limestone makes a difference.
brands sell themselves by saying they use the It is important to note that too much filtering
best grain, best grapes or best water (as this is also removes flavour excessively. There is no
a big part of vodka). Often times vodka brands regulation for vodka distillation as to what
also brag about the number of times they filtration, distillation or even the kind of still
distil the spirit as generally, the more times need to be used.

GIN
PICK FROM COCKTAIL PROFESSOR’S SHELF

SIP SMITH MONKEY 47 HENDRICKS
Incredibly balanced and simply Floral and bursting Soft and floral notes but
an outstanding gin which with flavour. A delightful strong enough to hold its own
keeps lingering after a sip. taste experience. in a G&T. (Popularity )

Examples of recipes using a gin that is more neutral
compared to a gin that has more character

Gin with more
Play with flavours Neutral gin character Play with notes

Basil Smash Gin & Tonic
55ml Beefeater 45 ml Monkey 47
25ml fresh lemon juice 120ml Fever Tree Tonic
15ml sugar syrup 2 nos. cloves
1 bunch basil leaves skin of grapefruit

Add all ingredients with ice to a Add the ice to a glass, add gin, then
shaker and give it a good shake. Strain the tonic. Stir briefly and add the
the drink over new ice into a glass. garnish on top. You can make your
Fine straining will give a cleaner drink own combinations with different
without the little ice and basil bits. gins, tonics and garnishes.

Glassware: Rock glass Glassware: Tall glass or balloon glass
Garnish: A sprig of basil Garnish: Skin of grapefruit and 2 cloves

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