Have you ever wondered where spirits come from that we all know? Whisky, vodka, rum... We travel back to the origins of these drinks to tell you about them.
Of course, you know that wine comes from grapes and that the oldest productions date back to the Bronze Age. Yes, it's not exactly a liqueur, but how could we not mention it if we are the wine distributors in Mallorca reference?
Where do the spirits we all know come from?
The earliest evidence of alcohol consumption dates back to China in 7000 BC. Remains of clay pots show that a fermented drink was made from rice, grapes and honey.
Depending on the way alcoholic beverages are obtained, we can classify them as follows:
- Fermented: in which the alcohol content does not usually exceed 15º.
- Distilled: those above 15º.
Geographical origin of spirits and raw materials
Following the same order in which we present you the essential liqueurs for a gourmet menuWe will explain where they come from and where we get them from:
Whisky
Of Irish origin, whisky became popular in Scotland as a way of making use of the barley that the rains soaked. If you are a lover of this drink or wish to learn more about it, we encourage you to attend one of our tastings.
- There seems to be a consensus that it was the monks who introduced distillation in these lands in the 4th and 5th centuries.
- This popular drink is made from the grains of wheat, rye, barley or maize.
- Each of them gives a different flavour to the distillate.
- Barley is the only grain used to make Scotch whisky.
Geneva
Its origins go back to 17th century Holland by a physicist named Franciscus Sylvius. His intention was none other than to produce a cheap medicine for kidney stones by distilling juniper berries with brandy.
- Nowadays it is made from different cereals such as maize, barley or malt.
- Juniper berries and aromatic herbs are added, depending on the type of gin.
Ron
It is believed to have originated in Ancient Greece, where fermented beverages were made from sugar cane.
- Our main association links rum with the Caribbean.
- It was in the 17th century that plantation slaves discovered that molasses fermented in the hot tropical climate.
- Pirates were the first rum traders, taking it all over the West Indies.
Tequila
This Mexican drink, made from the blue agave, is so interesting that we even dedicated a whole article to it. article you can read here.
Pacharán
This Navarrese drink originated in the Middle Ages as a stomach remedy, just as gin did in its early days.
- It is made by macerating the fruit of a tree called Prunus spinosa or blackthorn in aniseed.
- Pacharán is considered a liqueur because it is obtained by distillation.
- It began to be marketed in 1956.
Of course, there are many types of liqueurs depending on the quality of the raw material and the production processes. At HG Mallorca we have a wide range of premium products perfect for your business, to enjoy at home. or to give as a gift.
Now that you know where spirits come fromWhich of them will you choose to come to our establishment?
