What is a navy gin, how did it come about, and what makes it special? Similar to rum, navy strength gin kept better on a naval ship if it had higher alcohol. When lit, if it burned with a clear flame this was ‘proof’ that the spirit was sufficiently high (minimum 57% ABV). If it didn't catch fire or the flame burnt smokily, this was a signs that the gin was below the required strength.
The navy officers tended to drink gin instead of rum, and it would have been carried aboard the ships, often in close proximity with the gunpowder stored ready for the cannons in battle. Rough seas meant there was a good chance of spirit spillage: gin-soaked gunpowder was a military liability, but not if the spirit was sufficiently potent to ignite too! When mixed together with the gin, if the gunpowder still ignited it was 'proof' of its higher alcoholic strength.
Navy gins are usually characterised by bold flavours and a smooth, often creamy mouthfeel. This works well with mixers and in cocktails too.
