Grab a glass; Newcastle Gin Appreciation Society (NUGAS) are making your mums favourite drink cool again. As one of Newcastle universities newest societies, Newcastle university gin appreciation society has some big boots (or bottles) to fill. Founded by the now president Sam Robinson, the society became officially ratified on November 1st 2016 and has grown incredibly quickly in that time! Now at just under 50 members after only 1 social the society seems to have big plans for the future.
The first social they hosted comprised of a tasting of a local gin, Steampunk, which is based in the north east of England and won a spirits business gold this year. The gin was originally developed in 1892 by Sir Raleigh Holmes-Dunston and had hints of juniper, cardamom and citrus that melted in the mouth. This was served with the well-known Hexham based brand of tonics (and soft drinks) Fentimans, who were even there to meet some members. One of the members Jack Oliver Parker claimed “It was lovely to enjoy a nice gin in a relaxed society environment instead of being forced to down Bombay sapphire on a night out” and said he would suggest joining to friends.
"One of the members, Jack Oliver Parker, claimed "it was lovely to enjoy a nice gin in a relaxed society environment instead of being forced to down Bombay Sapphire on a night out""
Gin itself is actually made by the addition of approved natural flavourings to a neutral spirit that has to be of agricultural origin. The distinctive ‘gin’ flavour is from the juniper berry, which is in fact not a berry but a cone, and is the only spice derived from conifers. Although we are the ‘Gin Appreciation Society’, we also appreciate tonic in equal measure. never settle for anything but the best- A cheap tonic can ruin even the best of Gins. my personal favourite tonic is Fentimans (sorry for the product placement, it just tastes the best!).
If you fancy learning more facts about gin the society is currently selling tickets for their next social, a gin tasting master class and is planning a Christmas dinner.
"While of course loving the taste of the drink, the society is also interested in the brewing of the famous beverage and is talking to various companies about visiting a brewery for a day trip"
NUGAS aim to try as many local gins as possible as well as searching further afield for more interesting and rare varieties. While of course loving the taste of the drink, the society is also interested in the brewing of the famous beverage and is currently talking to various companies about visiting a brewery for a day trip.
The gin industry has undertaken a massive increase in recent years as 49 gin distilleries opened across the UK in 2015 alone, over 50% more than in 2014. With London dry gin being one of the most popular gin types it’ easy to think that gin is quintessentially British. However, London dry gin in fact has nothing to do with the place! It’s based on the amount of sweetening added to the final product (which cannot exceed 0.1 grams of sugars per litre).