Gin has been saved, phew!

Last week saw a sigh of relief across the country; the gin crisis has been averted! Back way back in October 2015, experts had warned that the main ingredient in gin, Juniper Berry, was being threatened by a deadly fungus known as Phytophthora Austrocedrae up in Scotland (where the majority of UK gin is made).  Across the country, people expressed their concern of what might happen to their favourite tipple. Without the berry, gin would no longer exist...

However, our saviours came in the form of a group of gardeners who work for the UK National Tree Seed Project. They realised what was happening and decided to collect all the juniper seeds from around the country to ensure they were protected away from the lethal fungus and stored them safely away in the Millennium Seed Bank in Sussex -  phew! 

Although we know that storing them away will not prevent the disease in some of the areas they grow in, there are plenty being conserved for as long as possible, and keeping the chances of catching it at a minimal level. 

Today, gin remains of the one the country's most loved drinks and is set to take over the leading tipple - Scotch Whisky - by 2020.  Over the past couple of years, it's become extremely fashionable especially among the younger generation! So much so, there's been an increase of gin parlours across the country - and even a real life gin school that's been established over in Ireland. 

We are just really glad to hear the news that our favourite beverage is safe for now. We might just go and celebrate with a gin and tonic...
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Let us know your thoughts on the gin crisis over at @gbhospitality! X

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