Quebec Gin Was Having a Moment. Then the SAQ Killed the Buzz | The Walrus
Briefly

The article traces the historical journey of gin from its discovery by British soldiers in the Netherlands during the seventeenth century to its status as a classic British spirit by the nineteenth century. Significant references include the gin craze, which marked a surge in gin production and consumption, and the popularization of specific cocktails like the gin and tonic and the Vesper martini from Ian Fleming's Casino Royale. Additionally, it discusses contemporary challenges such as the limited shelf space for Quebec-made gin at the SAQ, highlighting concerns about supporting local production in the face of broader market changes.
During the seventeenth century, British soldiers encountered genever in the Netherlands, leading to the gin craze, which transformed gin into a popular British drink.
By the nineteenth century, gin evolved into a British classic, recognized for its distinctive styles like London Dry Gin and its association with cocktails like the gin and tonic.
Ian Fleming's 1953 Casino Royale immortalized the Vesper martini, showcasing a specific gin recipe that reflects the evolving cocktail culture and Bond's sophisticated tastes.
Quebec-made gin was recently highlighted at the SAQ, sparking concern over reduced shelf space for local spirits amidst the removal of various products.
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