It is difficult to find an exact date of origin for 'blue ruin', however, it is generally held that this term was coined in the mid 18oo's. To the best of my knowledge the first time it appears in print is in E. Cobham Brewer 's (1810–1897) Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898: "Gin. Called blue from its tint, and ruin from its effects." Of course, I don't ascribe to anyone actually experiencing a 'blue ruin,' but I do find the term enigmatically beautiful. Just like Gin herself. (Oh yes, Gin is most definitely a woman.) So here it is, an homage to gin and libations in general ...the blue ruin.