Sloe gin is a gin-based liqueur made by infusing sloe berries, which are related to plums, into gin. It can be made at home and is popular in the United States and Europe. The mixture must be steeped for several weeks before decanting and can be consumed on its own or mixed into cocktails.
Sloe gin is a gin-based liqueur infused with sloe berries. It is popular in the United States and many European countries, especially Ireland, Germany and the United Kingdom. While commercial sloe gin is widely available, many people choose to make the liquor at home. It can be eaten on its own or can be mixed in a cocktail.
The berries used to make this liqueur are found on the blackthorn tree, which grows in Europe and parts of the United States and Asia. Known as sloes, these berries are closely related to the plum, although they are usually smaller in size. They tend to reach maturity in late fall. Consequently, sloe gin is traditionally made in October or November.
Contrary to what its name might suggest, sloe gin is not a distinct type of gin, but is rather a regular gin that has been flavoured. While it is produced commercially by liquor manufacturers in the United States and Europe, many people choose to make it at home. Preparing this liqueur requires gin, sloe berries, superfine sugar, and a large sterilizable, sealable jar.
To make 4.25 cups (one liter) of homemade ham gin, start by cleaning one pound (454 grams) of blackthorn berries. Prick each berry with a sterilized needle to ensure its juices can pass into the gin, then place the berries in the jar. Add one cup (225 grams) of superfine sugar and top with 4.25 cups (one liter) of gin. Seal the jar, shake it thoroughly and store it in a cool, dry place.
In order to develop a rich flavor and deep red hue, the mixture must be steeped for several weeks. It should be shaken once a day for the first week and once a week for the next eight weeks. After this maceration period, the liquid must be separated from the fruit by decanting it through a sieve into another sterilized container. The fruit can now be discarded or can be used to make jam or cider.
Once ready, sloe gin can be consumed on its own or can be mixed into cocktails. The Alabama Slammer is one of the most popular gin-based cocktails. Sloe Gin can also be used to give a fruity flavor and colorful tint to drinks normally made with regular gin, such as Gin Fizz or Long Iced Tea.
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