Get to know your pink gin

When it comes to spirits that are as beautiful as they are delicious, pink gin is undeniably in a league of its own. But what makes this blushing spirit so captivating? To find out, we caught up with Pippa Guy, spirits expert and pink gin aficionado, to uncover the story behind this Instagram-worthy favourite and its fascinating history.

Pink gin has been turning heads for decades, but its origins might surprise you. “Pink gin actually started life as a cocktail,” explains Pippa. “In the mid-19th century, bartenders in the UK were mixing gin with a few dashes of Angostura bitters. The deep red hue of the bitters gave the drink its signature blush, and the Pink Gin cocktail was born.” Over time, drinkers began adding personal touches – lemon garnishes, tonic water, and other mixers – to make the drink their own.

Today, pink gin has evolved far beyond its cocktail origins. Modern pink gin is distilled in the same way as classic gin but infused with red and pink fruits like strawberries, raspberries, rhubarb, and redcurrants after distillation. This infusion creates the fruity, subtly sweet profiles that have made pink gin a global sensation. “It’s a drink that invites playfulness,” says Pippa, “but still has that touch of sophistication.”

Pink gin’s versatility makes it perfect for almost any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer garden party, enjoying a quiet evening at home, or looking for a thoughtful gift, pink gin fits the bill. And, of course, its pastel hue makes it an undeniable star on social media. “It’s as easy on the eyes as it is on the palate,” Pippa adds.

Pink gin’s appeal goes deeper than aesthetics. At its heart, it’s a spirit that celebrates creativity. Distilleries experiment with fruit infusions, subtle sweeteners, and even natural colouring to create gins that are as unique as the people who drink them. “It’s exciting to see how distillers are constantly pushing boundaries with pink gin,” says Pippa. “It shows how far gin as a category has come, from the early days of Genever to the vibrant, playful gins we see today.”

Pink gin is more than a passing trend – it’s a celebration of flavour, colour and craft. With its roots in 19th-century mixology and its modern twist on tradition, it’s a spirit that feels both timeless and fresh. “Pink gin isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience,” says Pippa. And whether you’re sipping it neat, mixing it into a cocktail, or simply admiring its rosy glow, one thing’s for sure: pink gin is here to stay.

Looking for an easy pink gin recipe to try at home? Pippa recommends the Gordon’s Pink Gin Spritz – it’s the perfect cocktail for any occasion.