Exploring Alcoholic Drinks People Often Overlook

In the vast world of alcohol, certain drinks often remain under the radar. However, these overlooked options offer unique flavors and experiences worth exploring. Whether it's the refreshing botanicals of gin or the honey sweetness of mead, let's delve into these hidden gems in the realm of alcoholic beverages.

Reviving Gin

Gin, the aromatic spirit that once reigned supreme in cocktail bars, is experiencing a gradual decline in popularity. Ever since the rise of neutral-flavored vodkas, gin's popularity has slowly waned. However, gin remains a versatile and delightful addition to any cocktail. Here are a few popular gin-based cocktails:

Gin Tonic: A perfect choice for summer, with a slice of lemon for a bit of zest instead of the traditional lime. Dry Martini: An elegant and versatile cocktail that can adapt to different moods and seasons. I've personally crafted over 20,000 martinis in my career, and it's a timeless classic. Gimlet: A zesty drink perfect for a sunny afternoon or chilly evening. Singapore Sling: A light and fruity cocktail that's perfect for citrus lovers. Tom Collins: A refreshing drink with a hint of acidity. Negroni: A robust and balanced cocktail that's perfect for a night out. Gin Fizz: A light and frothy cocktail that's perfect for sipping. French 75: A classic cocktail that combines gin, champagne, and lemon, making it a seasonless favorite.

Discovering the Caipirinha

The Brazilian Caipirinha has a unique place in the world of cocktails. This cocktail may seem similar to a mojito or a margarita at first glance, but the subtle differences in flavors and preparation techniques make it stand out. The Caipirinha is made primarily with sugar, lime juice, ice, and cachaca, a type of Brazilian rum with its own distinct taste. The high alcohol content can be deceiving, making it easy to drink if not prepared properly.

Caipirinha Recipe:

Add 2-3 limes (halved) to a glass or shaker. Pile in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Mash the limes and the sugar to ensure the flavors blend. Fill the glass with ice and pour in 1.5 ounces of cachaca. Mix until well combined, then strain into a serving glass.

It's important to note that finding authentic cachaca here in the US might be challenging, as it can be substituted with rum, vodka, or even tequila. However, if you can get your hands on cachaca, it will truly elevate the drink to new heights.

Unearthing the Noble Mead

Mead, the traditional honey wine, has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Unlike gin, which has been overtaken by neutral vodkas, mead still holds a certain charm and mystique. Ten years ago, it was less common to find people familiar with mead unless they had an interest in classic literature, like Beowulf. Today, however, a growing number of enthusiasts are discovering the unique flavors it offers.

Mead is made by fermenting honey, along with fruits, spices, or herbs. Each variety of honey can impart its own distinct flavor, with certain honeys offering unique notes of smoke (mesquite) or citrus (orange blossom). Furthermore, mead can be made carbonated or flat, and can range from sweet to dry, depending on the fermentation process.

Some popular subcategories of mead include:

Melomels: Meads made with fruits, such as apples, grapes, guavas, mangos, passion fruits, mulberries, coconuts, and pineapples. Metheglins: Meads infused with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, star anise, vanilla, and cardamom. One of my favorites is a mead with rosemary, which complements the honey's sweetness remarkably well.

Exploring Authentic Hard Cider

Another overlooked drink is hard cider made from cider apples. Unlike most commercial hard ciders, which are made from dessert apples, traditional hard ciders are crafted from cider apples, which are rarely seen in grocery stores. These apples, also known as culinary apples, are specifically chosen for their tartness and tannin content. When combined with yeast, they create a unique and robust flavor that is distinct from the typical sweet apple ciders.

Today, many orchards are working to re-establish heirloom cider apple varieties like Ashmead's Kernel, Kingston Black, and Pippin. These apples, with their tart and pucker-inducing quality, are the key to crafting authentic hard cider. Some of the best hard ciders are still and dry, while others can be sweet and carbonated. When you find a truly authentic hard cider, such as those from craft cider orchards, the experience is far superior to mainstream brands like Angry Orchard and Woodchuck.

Hard ciders made from cider apples are best enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of foods. Their unique flavor profile pairs well with spicy foods, rich cheeses, and aged meats. Each sip offers a nuanced blend of tannins and acidity, making them a sophisticated choice for the discerning drinker.

Conclusion

The world of alcohol is vast and filled with many overlooked gems. From the aromatic Botanicals of Gin to the unique Honey Sweetness of Mead, and the Tartness of Authentic Hard Cider, there are countless drinks worth exploring. These overlooked alcoholic beverages offer unique flavors and experiences that can enhance any occasion. So, the next time you're at a bar or considering stocking your home bar, consider these options to add some new and exciting dimensions to your drinks.