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Hold up, it’s Fever Tree time. We’re diving into the world of Tonic Water – a bitter yet sweetened carbonated beverage that forms the perfect partnership with the botanicals of gin. The magic lies in its simple ingredient list: Carbonated Water, Sugar, and Natural Flavors including Quinine. Yes, Quinine is the game-changer that makes tonic water truly tonic.
Now, let’s talk about the origin of Quinine, which comes from none other than Cinchona Bark – the bark of the Cinchona tree, native to the Andes of South America and proudly serving as the national tree of Peru.
But how did this tree bark become a vital ingredient behind the bar? To answer that, we need to rewind before the discovery of Quinine and explore the fascinating history of carbonation.
Let’s start with Joseph Priestly, born in 1733 near Leeds, England. An inquisitive mind, Priestly delved into the world of gases and electricity, befriending none other than Benjamin Franklin. His experiments led to the discovery of oxygen in 1774, but more importantly, he believed that carbonating water could offer medical benefits, combating fevers like scurvy. Priestly’s breakthroughs inspired others, leading to the creation of devices like the gasogene by Dr. John Mervin Nooth in 1775, a precursor to the modern soda siphon.
Meanwhile, in Germany, Jacob Schweppe, born in 1740, observed the wonders of mineral water in the Taunus mountains. Drawing inspiration from Priestly’s work, Schweppe began experimenting with carbonated waters in 1767. By 1783, his machines were producing carbonated water on a commercial scale.
Schweppe & Co:
As demand soared, Schweppe sought assistance, leading to a collaboration with engineer Nicolas Paul. However, this partnership took an unexpected turn when Paul decided to compete directly with Schweppe. To salvage his business, Schweppe proposed a partnership in 1790, leveraging Paul’s engineering skills and adding pharmacist Henry Albert Gosse to the mix. Together, they expanded production, focusing on creating water inspired by natural sources.
Schweppe’s journey took him to London in 1792, facing stiff competition but ultimately establishing a successful factory near the Thames. Despite initial challenges, he persevered and, by 1798, sold a majority of the business, paving the way for continued growth and innovation.
Schweppe’s legacy continued, evolving with new owners and a strategic focus on marketing and product development. The introduction of Schweppes Aerated Lemonade in 1835 marked a milestone, showcasing their commitment to innovation. The brand flourished in the international market, contributing to the global popularity of seltzers, sodas, and mixers.
Fast forward to 1953 when Schweppes entered the American market, influencing the rise of Gin and Tonics, even making an appearance in the James Bond novel “Dr. No” in 1958. Over the years, Schweppes underwent mergers, acquisitions, and expansions, eventually becoming Keurig Dr. Pepper in 2018.
Today, the quinine content in tonic waters is regulated, ensuring safety. The popularity of Gin and Tonics persists, with a plethora of brands offering various tonic options. From Fever Tree to Fentimans, the choices are endless.
My Two Cents:
With numerous tonics available, personal preferences emerge. Personally, I lean towards Fever Tree for its accessibility and unique flavors, especially the Mediterranean Tonic Water. Whether you’re crafting your own tonic or opting for a store-bought favorite, the world of Gin and Tonics is yours to explore.
So, as you enjoy your next Gin and Tonic, perhaps dive into the Luxardo family and maraschino liqueurs in the latest episode of ‘Behind the Bottle.’
