Gin, with its crisp, botanical notes, has a history as vibrant as its taste. Its rise to popularity is intertwined with historical shifts, cultural revolutions, and the craft of distilling. While gin found its roots in Europe, its legacy in America has been equally compelling, particularly in Memphis, Tennessee, where Old Dominick Distillery has carved out its own unique story. This article delves into the fascinating era when gin became a cultural staple and the rich history behind Old Dominick Distillery.
The Era When Gin Became Popular
Gin’s origins trace back to the early 17th century in the Netherlands, where it was first created as a medicinal liquor known as “genever.” Dutch soldiers reportedly drank it for courage during battles, giving rise to the term “Dutch Courage.” When British soldiers encountered genever during the Eighty Years’ War, they brought it back to England, sparking the beginning of gin’s journey to widespread popularity.
By the early 18th century, gin had taken England by storm, ushering in the notorious “Gin Craze.” During this period, gin became incredibly cheap and accessible due to relaxed distillation laws and the surplus of grain. London was the epicenter of this craze, with thousands of gin shops popping up across the city. The affordability of gin made it a popular choice among the working class, but its unchecked consumption led to widespread social issues, prompting the British government to introduce the Gin Acts to regulate production and sales.
Despite these regulations, gin continued to evolve. The invention of the column still in the 19th century revolutionized gin production, allowing for a cleaner, more refined spirit. This period saw the rise of London Dry Gin, characterized by its juniper-forward flavor and crisp, dry profile. Gin became a symbol of sophistication, enjoyed in classic cocktails like the Martini and the Gin & Tonic, the latter of which gained popularity among British colonialists in India due to the tonic’s quinine content, which helped prevent malaria.
So where does Old Dominick come in? Recently I toured the distillery and got the opportunity to check out some of their whisky, which they are known for, and their art deco cocktails made with their gin! My favorite cocktail was called The Bee’s Knees. So cheers to The Bee’s Knees, and now for a little bit on the history of Memphis’ Old DOminick!
Old Dominick: A Memphis Legacy
While gin was making waves in Europe, Memphis, Tennessee, was laying the groundwork for its own distilling legacy. Old Dominick Distillery’s story begins in the late 1800s with Domenico Canale, an Italian immigrant who arrived in Memphis with a vision. Domenico quickly established himself as a successful entrepreneur, founding D. Canale & Co., which distributed everything from produce to spirits. His keen business acumen and dedication to quality helped the company thrive, and it wasn’t long before his name became synonymous with excellence in Memphis whiskey.
Domenico’s passion for spirits led him to create “Dominick’s Toddy,” a pre-mixed cocktail that became incredibly popular in the region. This toddy was a blend of whiskey, spices, and other secret ingredients, offering a taste of warmth and tradition that resonated with Memphians. However, like many distilleries, Old Dominick’s operations were halted during Prohibition, and the distillery faded into history…until its remarkable revival.
The Revival of Old Dominick Distillery
Fast forward to the 21st century, and the Canale family decided to honor Domenico’s legacy by resurrecting Old Dominick Distillery. In 2017, Old Dominick reopened its doors in downtown Memphis, breathing new life into the city’s spirits scene offering distillery tours and beautiful Memphis event space. The state-of-the-art distillery not only pays homage to its rich history but also embraces modern distilling techniques to produce exceptional spirits, including whiskey, vodka, and, of course, gin.
Old Dominick’s gin is a testament to the spirit’s enduring appeal. Crafted with a blend of traditional and contemporary botanicals, their Memphis Toddy Gin reflects both heritage and innovation. The distillery prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and meticulous production methods to create a gin that is both complex and refreshing, perfect for classic cocktails or enjoyed neat.
A Perfect Pairing of History and Craftsmanship
The story of gin’s rise to popularity and Old Dominick Distillery’s legacy in Memphis share a common thread: the pursuit of excellence and the ability to adapt and thrive through changing times. From the bustling streets of 18th-century London to the vibrant heart of Memphis, gin has transcended borders and eras, continually reinventing itself while staying true to its roots.
While Old Dominick is known for its whiskey, they have a fabulous Gin. One of my favorite Old Dominick’s Gin cocktails is The Bee’s Knees.
Old Dominick’s Bee’s Knees Cocktail
- 1.5 oz gin
- .5 oz honey syrup (2 parts honey 1 part water)
- .5 o lemon juice
- Optional: top with soda
Today, Old Dominick Distillery stands as a beacon of Memphis’s rich cultural tapestry, offering tours, tastings, and a glimpse into the art of distilling. Visitors can explore the historic building, learn about the distillation process, and savor the unique flavors that make Old Dominick’s spirits so special.
Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or a history buff, the tale of gin’s golden era and Old Dominick’s remarkable journey offers a captivating blend of tradition, innovation, and the timeless allure of a well-crafted spirit.
Please Note: I always strive to provide accurate and helpful information, but just a quick heads-up—I’m a blogger, not a doctor, lawyer, CPA, or any other kind of certified professional. I’m here to share my experiences and insights, but please make sure to use your own judgment and consult the right professionals when needed.
Also, I accept monetary compensation through affiliate links, advertising, guest posts, and sponsored partnerships on this site, however I am very particular about the products I endorse and only do so when I am truly a fan of the quality and result of the product.
