How Do You Spell OLD TOM?

1. Old Tom refers to a specific type or style of gin, which originated in the 18th century in England. This term is generally used to describe a style of gin that is slightly sweeter and more full-bodied than the classic London Dry Gin. Old Tom gin is renowned for its smooth and rounded flavor profile, with a subtle sweetness derived from the addition of sugar or botanicals during the distillation process.

   The name "Old Tom" is believed to have originated from the use of a black cat-shaped plaque mounted on the wall outside a pub or gin shop. The plaque would have a slot where customers could place a penny, and in return, a shot of gin would be dispensed from a pipe connected to a barrel inside. This delivery system became known as the "Old Tom" style. Over time, the term "Old Tom" was eventually associated with the gin itself.

   Old Tom gin is often considered a bridge between traditional genever and modern London Dry Gin. It retains some of the maltiness and sweetness characteristic of genever, while also embracing the cleaner and drier style of London Dry. It typically exhibits a juniper-forward profile mixed with botanicals such as coriander, angelica root, orris root, and citrus peels. The addition of sugar during production gives the gin a mild sweetness and a velvety texture.

   In recent years, Old Tom gin has experienced a resurgence in popularity due to the revival of classic cocktail recipes that specifically call for this style of gin. Its unique flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for creating vintage cocktails like the Tom Collins or the Martinez.

2. A kind of strong London gin; a particular manufacture of Scotcli whisky, matured by long keeping.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for OLD TOM

The word "Old Tom" derives from the name "Tom", which is a common nickname for the given name "Thomas". The term "Old Tom" is primarily associated with two distinct origins: one being a nickname for a specific historical person, and the other referring to a type of alcoholic beverage.

1. Tom as a nickname: "Old Tom" refers to a legendary figure known as Captain Thomas Coram. Coram was a philanthropist in 18th-century England who founded the Foundling Hospital in London, which provided care for abandoned children. The term "Old Tom" became a nickname for Captain Coram, leading to the association of the name with generosity and kindness.

2. Tom as an alcoholic beverage: "Old Tom" is also used to describe a type of gin that dates back to the 18th century.