It's only the day after Election Day, and Crassmas is upon us already. The Cod is genetically predisposed to be the gin he wants to see in the world, but this kit is sort of dopey. Microdistilling is a Thing, (though you best have your grains delivered by sail-powered barge, Mr. Bon Iver), and it seems natural that given the mythic stature of bathtub gin, not to mention the lack of aging needed, that gin would be a natural for kits for the aspiring home distiller. Thus, this kit. Unfortunately, though:
Most people don't realize that it is possible to make a small batch of gin at home without costly (and illegal) distilling equipment. In order to make your own gin, you need to purchase The HomeMade Gin Kit and an affordable bottle of vodka (not included). Then follow the enclosed instructions -- transforming the vodka into homemade gin with a rich blend of juniper berries followed by an array of carefully selected and hand weighed spices, botanicals, flowers and aromatics.
The end result is technically gin (though of a lower quality than distilled gin, where the spirit is distilled in the presence of the botanicals), but why bother with this kit? If you want to infuse vodka (and you should), infuse vodka. If you want to build a still, well good on you, and save us a jar, unless your name is Mags Bennett. Instead, this kid seems like the first of what I imagine will be a Christmas of products designed to create the feel of making artisanal food and beverages, without all of the actual fuss. Also, fifty smacks for two empty bottles, a funnel, a strainer and some spices? Consider a handmade card with a promise to build a real still in the spring, and a gift to a local food pantry.
Comments