Pink Gin: From Naval Tradition to Modern Classic
13/05/2025
Pink gin, with its delicate hue and refreshing taste, has become a staple in modern cocktail culture. But behind its contemporary appeal lies a rich history rooted in naval tradition and medicinal practices. This article delves into the origins of pink gin, its evolution over time, and its resurgence as a modern classic.
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Origins: A Naval Remedy
The story of pink gin begins in the 19th century with the British Royal Navy. Sailors often suffered from seasickness during long voyages. To combat this, they turned to Angostura bitters, a potent concoction developed in 1824 by Dr. Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert in Venezuela. While effective, the bitters were intensely bitter on their own. To make them more palatable, sailors mixed them with Plymouth gin, a sweeter style of gin compared to the more common London Dry. The addition of the dark red bitters gave the drink a pinkish hue, leading to the name “pink gin.”
This simple mixture not only served a medicinal purpose but also became a popular beverage among naval officers. As these officers returned to England, they brought the drink with them, introducing it to bars and clubs across the country. By the 1870s, pink gin had become fashionable in England’s finer establishments.
Made on the Isle of Wight, Mermaid Pink Gin is a beautifully delicate gin with floral notes and a sweet, fruity finish. Infused with Island strawberries, this gin is perfect for summertime sipping. Its unique pink hue and delicate flavour make it a popular choice for those who like their gin with a touch of elegance.
Pro Tip: Create the most delicious Summer Highball – muddle mint, strawberries with a dash of Mermaid Pink Gin, top up with ice and your favourite tonic or soda.
The Classic Pink Gin Cocktail
Traditionally, pink gin is a straightforward cocktail comprising Plymouth gin and a dash of Angostura bitters. The preparation involves chilling a glass, adding a few dashes of bitters, swirling to coat the interior, and then adding the gin. Some variations include a twist of lemon peel as a garnish.
Bartenders might ask patrons if they prefer their pink gin “in” or “out.” An “in” preparation means the bitters remain in the glass, while “out” involves swirling the bitters and then discarding the excess, leaving only a residue. This choice affects the intensity of the bitters in the final drink.
Malfy Rosa Sicilian Pink Grapefruit Flavoured Gin
Malfy Gin Rosa is a vibrant Italian gin infused with Sicilian pink grapefruit, sun-ripened lemons, and handpicked juniper. Its delicate pale rose hue complements bright grapefruit aromas, hints of rhubarb, and a crisp citrus palate.
Perfect for a refreshing G&T or spritz, it captures the essence of the Amalfi Coast
Modern Resurgence and Evolution
In recent years, pink gin has experienced a renaissance, evolving from its classic form into a diverse category of flavoured gins. Modern pink gins often incorporate fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and redcurrants, giving them a sweeter profile and a vibrant pink colour.
Brands have embraced this trend, introducing their own pink gin variants. For instance, Gordon’s launched its Premium Pink Distilled Gin, inspired by an 1880s recipe and flavoured with natural fruit essences. Similarly, Bacardi introduced Bosford Rose, a blend of gin and strawberry liqueur, catering to consumers seeking a fruitier gin experience.
The appeal of pink gin extends beyond its taste. Its aesthetic—light pink hues and elegant packaging—makes it a favourite for social media sharing, further boosting its popularity among younger demographics.
Pink gin hampers make perfect gifts, combining beautifully bottled pink gins with premium tonics and sweet treats. Whether celebrating a birthday or simply indulging, these curated sets offer a stylish, flavourful experience. Ideal for lovers of pretty pours and refreshing sips, they’re a hit for any special occasion.
Cultural Significance and Modern Appeal
Pink gin’s resurgence aligns with broader trends in the beverage industry, where consumers seek both flavour and visual appeal. The drink’s versatility allows it to be enjoyed in various forms, from classic cocktails to modern concoctions.
Its association with elegance and sophistication has made pink gin a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings. Moreover, the infusion of botanicals and fruits caters to contemporary palates that favour nuanced flavours.
Pink gin hampers make perfect gifts, combining beautifully bottled pink gins with premium tonics and sweet treats. Whether celebrating a birthday or simply indulging, these curated sets offer a stylish, flavourful experience. Ideal for lovers of pretty pours and refreshing sips, they’re a hit for any special occasion.
From its origins as a naval remedy to its status as a modern classic, pink gin has undergone a remarkable transformation. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to adapt, blending tradition with innovation. Whether enjoyed in its classic form or as a fruity modern variant, pink gin continues to captivate drinkers around the world.
