Quinine gin steps up malaria fight

A new gin is celebrating the spirit’s historic role in keeping the British Empire healthy by using quinine as an ingredient and supporting a charity that fights malaria.

Introduced by UK importer, brand owner and db awards 2015 winner Maverick Drinks, 1897 Quinine Gin takes its name from the year that scientist Sir Ronald Ross discovered malaria parasites in mosquitoes, thereby paving the way for the development of antimalarial treatment.

A major flavour component of the new gin is cinchona bark, the traditional source of quinine, which British East India Company employees and army officers posted to the tropics would mix with sugar, lime, water and gin – part of the soldiers’ rations – to improve the bitter taste of the quinine.

In the case of 1897 Quinine Gin, the “ethereal flavour and floral aroma” of this cinchona bark is complemented by 13 botanicals: juniper, coriander, angelica, orange, lemon, nutmeg, cassia, cinnamon, orris and liquorice, pink and white grapefruit and lemon peel.

In a further link with the fight against a disease that continues to kill millions, over 50% of the producer’s profit – equivalent to at least £5 per bottle sold – will be donated to the charity Malaria No More UK.

1867 Quinine Gin is initially available through Master of Malt and Amazon with an RRP of £39.95.