Gin originated as medicinal liquor made by monks and alchemists across Europe, including Belgium (formerly 
Flanders), the Netherlands and Southern France. Spices such as anise, caraway, coriander, etc., were also added.
For a period during the 18th century in England, gin was very cheap and as a consequence, it became the ruin of many poor people with associated tragic deaths. British officers in India in the early 19th century took to adding a mixture of water, sugar, lime and gin to quinine in order to make taking quinine more palatable, and thus gin and tonic was born.
Gin has had a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and with it, there has developed an enormous range of types, flavors and brands. Currently, the UK produces the most gin in the world. However, Australia has increased its production of gin considerably as new artisan distilleries appear, creating interesting types of gin with the addition of unique Australian botanical flavors.
The Fellowship of Gin utilises social media to keep in touch with its members and to reach out to other Rotarians who may wish to join. The Fellowship is also keen to support Rotary projects such as, clean water and ending polio, through fundraising at social activities.
For more information, go to: https://www.ginfellowship.org/