The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the World of Quebec Gin

For the past twenty years, gin has enjoyed explosive popularity worldwide. Quebec, with its rich and diverse terroir, has quickly established itself as a key player in this revolution. Our boreal forests and fields abound with flowers, herbs, and spices that allow us to create unique spirits, true reflections of our identity.

Did you know that there are more than 75 micro-distilleries across 17 regions of Quebec? This effervescence has given rise to an incredible range of flavours, with nearly 140 distinct botanicals used in the composition of local gins.

What makes each Quebec gin so unique?

The fundamental ingredient of all gin is the Juniper berry . It's what gives it its soul. But then, how do we explain the almost infinite diversity of gins on the market?

The secret lies in the art of flavoring. It's the infusion of a unique blend of herbs, spices, flowers, or fruits into a neutral spirit that gives each gin its personality. Quebec distillers have mastered the use of local ingredients to create bold flavor signatures. Think of the Labrador tea , at dune pepper , to the chicoutai or even to forest mushrooms, which bring an incomparable boreal touch.

In summary, if the juniper berry is the canvas, the aromatics are the colors that create the masterpiece.

Become a Gin Flavoring Expert

Do you want to refine your palate and better understand the subtleties of your favorite gins? Here are some essential tools to guide you in your exploration.

The Chromatic Circle of Aromatics: Your Taste Compass

Created by sommelier Karyne Duplessis-Piché, the Chromatic Circle of Aromatics is an essential accessory for any gin enthusiast. This ingenious tool helps you identify and classify flavors into six main profiles:

• Fruity

• Citrus

• Floral

• Boreal

• Herbaceous

• Spicy

With this circle, you'll learn not only to recognize aromas, but also to create perfect pairings for your cocktails. On the back, discover exclusive recipes designed for each profile—an inexhaustible source of inspiration for your mixology evenings!

Embark on a journey of discovery with the "Vive le gin du Québec" map.

Your purchase of the color wheel comes with the map "Long live Quebec gin!" This is your passport to an adventure through the province's distilleries.[ 5 ] Plan your getaways, discover passionate artisans, and taste exceptional products. A perfect travel companion for your local vacation!

Deepen your knowledge: Essential books

For those who wish to delve deeper, several reference books open the doors to the fascinating world of gin.

The Gin Handbook by Dave Broom

Consider this book your advanced introductory course! Spirits expert Dave Broom demystifies everything:

• The history of gin: From Dutch origins to the current renaissance.

• The production: The secrets of distillation and infusion.

• The tasting: Technical sheets on more than 100 gins to guide your palate.

• The cocktails: From classic recipes to creations from the greatest mixologists.

This manual is a practical and enjoyable guide to optimizing every tasting experience.

The Gin Dictionary by David T. Smith

A veritable encyclopedia, The Gin Dictionary This is a comprehensive reference work. This internationally renowned expert covers hundreds of topics, from ingredients and distillation techniques to tasting notes and gin varieties from around the world. If you have a burning question about gin, the answer is very likely in this book.