1827 Wine and spirit adulterators unmasked

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There are two strengths only, at which the Rec- tifier sends this article of unsweetened Gin from his stock ; these are seventeen, and twenty-two per cent, underproof; and, as any variation from them would only occasion a proportionate alteration in The cause, which pro- duced the seeming inconsistency, of having these two strengths in particular, was as follows: The first Act of Parliament relating to this sub- ject, provided, that British Brandy, Gin, and all liquors under the head of Compounds, should not exceed in strength twenty-two per cent, underproof, and a penalty was inflicted on persons selling it at any higher rate of strength. Subsequently, however, another Act was passed, which altered the limitation to seventeen per cent, underproof; thus, making the article of unsweetened Gin saleable, at a degree five per cent, stronger. But, the traders generally having become accustomed to buy their Gin at twenty-two per cent, underproof, and the penalty attaching only on the Spirit being sold at a higher per centage than laid down in the last Act, both strengths are retained, in order to suit the choice of the purchaser, though by far the greater proportion, is still disposed of, at twenty-two per cent, underproof. With Gin, after it is sweetened, no restriction, as to any particular strength, continues to prevail, as it then constitutes, what is termed Cordial, or sweetened Gin, it cannot be tried by the hy- price, none is ever made.