The tomato, also known as Paradeiser or Paradeisapfel in Austria, is a fruit originally from South America. It belongs to the nightshade family and is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and fibre. Tomatoes are used in many dishes around the world and have health benefits. In gin making, tomatoes are a rather unusual botanical due to their intense aroma. They can be added fresh or dried, but the dosage requires care. Tomatoes lend fruity, spicy and sometimes acidic nuances to gin. Their origin is in the Andes and they are now grown all over the world, with China leading the way with a third of the cultivation.
Background
The tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), also called Paradeiser or Paradeisapfel in Austria, is a fruit that is often mistakenly called a vegetable and was originally native to South America. In the 16th century, the tomato was brought to the European continent by the Spaniard Hermán Cortés after the conquest of Mexico. The present name of the tomato originates from the word Xitomatl, a name given to the fruit by the Aztecs in their Nahuatl language. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is thus a close relative of the potato.
Use of the Tomato
Tomatoes are one of the most important antioxidant foods in the diet. The red fruit, which is strictly speaking a berry, can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as in soups, a salad or most famously in the form of ketchup. In addition, tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and dietary fibre. In addition, the fruit is a central component of many international cuisines and is usually eaten raw or cooked.
Due to its important ingredients, the tomato is used in alternative health care and cosmetics
In gin production, the tomato is rather an unusual botanical, which has not been experimented with for too long. This is not least due to the intense aroma, which could mask the juniper note. Tomatoes are added fresh or dried during gin maceration.
Growth Area and Origin
The tomato originates from the Andes in South America and was probably cultivated by the Aztecs in Mexico before being brought to Europe. Today, tomatoes are grown all over the world, with countries like China and India being among the biggest producers.
Dosing and Distillation
Tomatoes have a strong aroma and can therefore quickly dominate other aromas, which is why the dosage must be done carefully. The required amount of the botanical is similar to that of paprika or rose hips, i.e. only approx. 300g per 100 litres should be used.
Taste Influence on the Gin
A gin with tomatoes as a botanical can have fruity, slightly spicy and sometimes even slightly acidic nuances. In any case, the typical tomato flavour is passed on to the gin! It plays a major role whether the tomato is used in fresh or dried form.
