Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe

Is there anything more classic than a gin and tonic? This simple cocktail has been a favorite for generations. My love affair with the gin and tonic started on a warm summer day when its crisp taste won me over instantly.

The gin and tonic has an interesting history, tracing back to British colonial times. Originally, it was used for medicinal purposes, with the quinine-rich tonic water helping soldiers stay healthy. Today, its refreshing taste and easy preparation make it a go-to for any occasion.

A classic gin and tonic cocktail recipe needs just gin, tonic water, and lime. We’re here to help you craft this citrusy delight, from picking the right gin to trying out fun variations. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night at home, we’ve got you covered.

What Gin is Best for Gin and Tonic?

Choosing the best gin for your gin and tonic can make all the difference. Each type of gin has a unique flavor that can change your drink’s profile. Let’s explore a few popular options:

London Dry Gin: This classic choice is known for its strong juniper flavor. If you like a bold and crisp drink, go for brands like Tanqueray or Beefeater.

Plymouth Gin: This type offers a softer juniper taste with an earthy tone. Plymouth Gin Original is a great pick if you prefer a smoother, less juniper-heavy experience.

Old Tom Gin: If you enjoy a slightly sweeter gin and tonic, Old Tom Gin is your best bet. Hayman’s Old Tom Gin is a top choice for this style.

A strong juniper-forward gin like Tanqueray pairs well with the bitterness of tonic water. If you’re after a more balanced flavor, Plymouth Gin is ideal. For those who prefer a sweeter profile, try an Old Tom gin like Hayman’s.

In the end, the best gin for your gin and tonic is the one that suits your taste.

Tonic Water Explained

Tonic water is a carbonated soft drink. Its key ingredients include carbonated water, sugar, and quinine. Quinine gives it that unique, slightly bitter taste.

The role of tonic water in the gin and tonic is essential. It balances the strong flavor of gin with its crisp and bubbly texture. Most gins pair brilliantly with tonic water’s bitterness, creating a refreshing drink.

There are different types of tonic water available. Regular tonic water is the classic choice, known for its straightforward quinine flavor.

Flavored tonic water adds an extra twist. Choices like elderflower, citrus, or cucumber offer unique flavor profiles. These can enhance or complement the botanicals in your gin.

Low-calorie or diet tonic water is also an option. These use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar. They are great if you’re watching your calorie intake but still want that tonic water taste.

When it comes to high-quality tonic water brands, we have some favorites. Fever-Tree is a top pick for its premium quality and natural ingredients. We’ve also found Schweppes to be a reliable and widely available choice.

For those seeking artisanal options, Q Mixers offers unique flavors and high-quality ingredients. Choosing the right tonic water can elevate your gin and tonic experience to a new level.

Explore these different types and brands to find your perfect match. Enjoy experimenting!

Garnishing Your Gin and Tonic

Garnishes play a key role in both the flavor and the look of a gin and tonic. They add a personal touch, elevating the drink from simple to special.

Classic Garnishes

Lime
A lime wedge is the classic choice for a reason. It brings a bright, zesty note that balances the gin’s botanicals. To use, squeeze a wedge into your drink and drop it in.

Lemon
Lemon is another traditional option. It adds a fresh, citrusy twist. Squeezing a lemon wedge and running it around the glass rim can enhance the overall experience.

Creative Garnish Ideas

Cucumber
Cucumber slices can add a refreshing, clean taste. Simply place a few thin slices into the glass or use a cucumber ribbon for a stylish look.

Grapefruit
Grapefruit wedges offer a tangy twist, bringing a slightly bitter but vibrant flavor. Squeeze and drop a wedge into the drink for a unique touch.

Herbs
Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can infuse your drink with aromatic notes. Place a sprig into the glass or lightly muddle it for a stronger flavor.

Berries
Berries such as juniper, raspberries, or blueberries add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color. Drop a handful of berries into the glass for a delightful garnish.

Garnish Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh and high-quality garnishes to ensure the best flavor.
2. Complement the Gin: Think about what flavors are already in your gin and choose garnishes that will enhance these notes.
3. Keep it Balanced: Avoid overloading your drink with too many garnishes. Less can often be more when it comes to balance.

Adding the right garnish can make your gin and tonic memorable. Experiment with different combinations to discover your favorite!

Related: Best Gin and Tonic Garnishes: Tips and Ideas

Classic Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe

Creating a classic gin and tonic is easy and refreshing. We’ll go over what you need and how to make it.

Ingredients

To make a classic gin and tonic, you’ll need:

• 2 oz gin
• 4 oz tonic water
• Lime wedges or lime wheels (for garnish)
• Ice

Using a high-quality gin can make a big difference in flavor.

Equipments You’ll Need

Just a few tools are needed:

• Highball glass
• Jigger (for measuring)
• Bar spoon

These tools will help you mix the perfect drink.

How to Make a Gin and Tonic

Follow these steps to mix your cocktail:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice to the top.
2. Measure 2 oz of gin with the jigger and pour over the ice.
3. Pour 4 oz of tonic water into the glass.
4. Stir gently with the bar spoon to combine the ingredients.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge or lime wheel.

Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, refreshing taste.

Nutrition and Content

Here’s the nutritional information for a standard gin and tonic:

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
• Carbohydrates: Around 14 grams
• Alcohol Content: About 14% ABV (depending on the gin used)

This simple drink provides a low-calorie option for a summer refreshment.

Gin and Tonic Variations to Try

Mixing up your gin and tonic with new flavors adds excitement to this classic cocktail. Here are some interesting variations to explore.

Cucumber and Mint Gin and Tonic

This version is all about refreshing, clean flavors. Cucumber adds a mild, cool taste, while mint brings a burst of herbal freshness.

First, muddle a few cucumber slices and mint leaves at the bottom of your highball glass. This helps release their flavors. Add ice, pour in your gin, and top off with tonic water. Lightly stir to mix everything together.

Garnish with a cucumber wheel and a sprig of mint for added flair. This version is perfect for a hot day or any time you need a cooling drink. The crispness of the cucumber and mint elevates the botanical notes of the gin, making each sip a pleasure.

Elderflower Gin and Tonic

The elderflower liqueur brings delicate, floral notes to our gin and tonic. It’s a sophisticated twist that’s easy to make special. Start by adding your gin to a highball glass filled with ice, then pour in elderflower liqueur.

Top with tonic water, and give it a gentle stir to blend the flavors. Garnish with an edible flower or a lemon twist for an elegant touch.

For special occasions, use a tonic water brand that enhances the floral notes. This drink pairs well with light appetizers like cheese or seafood, making it a great choice for parties and gatherings.

Rosemary and Lemon Gin and Tonic

Combining rosemary and lemon creates a unique mix of herbaceous and citrus flavors. Start by gently bruising a sprig of rosemary to release its oils.

Add the rosemary to a glass of ice, pour in the gin, and squeeze in some fresh lemon juice. Fill the glass with tonic water and stir gently.

Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a lemon wheel. For an extra touch, you can infuse the gin with rosemary beforehand. This cocktail is aromatic, with the rosemary balancing the bright lemon notes, making it both refreshing and fragrant.

Raspberry Gin and Tonic

Raspberries add a burst of fruity flavor and beautiful color to a gin and tonic. Begin by muddling a few fresh raspberries at the bottom of your glass. Add ice and pour in your gin.

Top with tonic water, and stir to mix. Garnish with a few whole raspberries and a mint sprig for a visually striking drink.

To balance the sweetness of the raspberries with the gin’s dryness, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice. This drink looks fantastic and tastes as good as it looks, making it a hit at any gathering.

Rosemary and Grapefruit Gin and Tonic

Rosemary and grapefruit create a bold and complex flavor combination in this gin and tonic variation. Begin by slightly bruising a rosemary sprig and adding it to your glass of ice.

Pour in the gin and add a splash of fresh grapefruit juice. Fill the rest of the glass with tonic water and stir gently.

Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and a rosemary sprig. This drink is aromatic and flavorful, with the rosemary enhancing the tartness of the grapefruit. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy a drink with a bit of complexity.

Lavender Gin and Tonic

Lavender adds a calming and aromatic twist to the classic gin and tonic. Start by lightly crushing a few dried lavender buds to release their fragrance.

Add the lavender to a glass of ice, then pour in your gin and top with tonic water. Stir gently to avoid overpowering the drink with lavender.

Garnish with a lemon twist and a lavender sprig. Lavender pairs well with citrus, so adding a bit of lemon or lime juice can balance the flavors. This drink is perfect for unwinding after a long day, offering a relaxing, aromatic experience.

Tips for the Perfect Gin and Tonic

Choosing the right glass makes a difference. A highball glass works best for a gin and tonic. It offers enough room for the drink and ice, and it shows off the clear, sparkly drink.

Ice quality is crucial too. Using big, solid ice cubes keeps the drink cold longer without watering it down. Avoid using crushed ice, as it melts faster, which can dilute the flavors.

The ideal gin-to-tonic ratio is important. Aim for a ratio of 1 part gin to 2 parts tonic water. This ensures a balanced taste where neither ingredient overpowers the other.

Balancing your gin and tonic proportions is simple. Start with 2 ounces of gin and add 4 ounces of tonic water. Adjust to your taste. A little more gin if you like it stronger, or more tonic for a lighter drink.

Stirring the drink gently is key to blending the flavors well. Stir just enough to mix the gin and tonic but avoid losing too much carbonation.

Garnishes add a lovely touch of flavor. A lime wedge is classic, but you can get creative. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or slices of cucumber, work well too.

Enhancing the drink’s flavor and presentation can be fun. Chill your glass in the freezer before making your drink. Use fresh tonic water for the best fizz, and always opt for fresh citrus and herbs. These small touches can elevate your gin and tonic to the next level. Enjoy!

Related:

• Gin Basil Smash Cocktail Recipe

Gin and Tonic FAQs

What is the best ratio of gin to tonic water?

The standard ratio for a gin and tonic is 2 parts gin to 3 parts tonic. However, personal preference plays a big role, so feel free to experiment until you find the balance that suits your taste.

How do you serve a gin and tonic?

Serve your gin and tonic in a tall glass filled with ice. Pour the gin over the ice first, then top it off with tonic water. Popular glass choices include the highball and Collins glass.

Should you stir a gin and tonic?

Stirring is generally not recommended as it can dilute the drink. However, if you have a lot of ice in the glass, a gentle stir is acceptable.

Where did the gin and tonic originate?

The gin and tonic has roots in the British Empire. It became popular as a way to consume quinine, which helped prevent malaria. Over time, it evolved into the beloved classic we enjoy today.

Why do gin and tonic go together?

The flavors of gin and tonic complement each other perfectly. The quinine in tonic water adds a bitter note that balances the gin, creating a refreshing mix.

Is lemon or lime better with gin and tonic?

This comes down to personal preference. Lemon adds a more mellow, sweet note, while lime provides a sharper, tangier taste. Try both to see which you prefer.

Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe

Whipping up a classic gin and tonic is not only simple but also incredibly refreshing. It’s perfect for unwinding after a long day or impressing your friends at a get-together. Here's how to make a gin and tonic with everything you need and easy steps to follow so you can enjoy every sip.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Equipment

• Highball glass
• Jigger
• Bar Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 2 oz gin
• 4 oz tonic water
• Lime wedges or lime wheels for garnish
• Ice

Instructions

 

• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Measure 2 oz of gin with the jigger and pour over the ice.
• Pour 4 oz of tonic water into the glass.
• Stir gently with the bar spoon to combine the ingredients.
• Garnish with a lime wedge or lime wheel.

Notes

• For a perfect gin and tonic, use a highball glass with large ice cubes to keep the drink cold without diluting it.
• Stick to a 1:2 gin-to-tonic ratio for a balanced taste, and stir gently to mix everything without losing the fizz.
• A lime wedge is a classic garnish, but you can also try fresh herbs or cucumber for something different.
• And to make it extra special, chill your glass beforehand and use fresh tonic and garnishes. Enjoy your drink!

Keyword gin and tonic, gin and tonic cocktail recipe, gin and tonic recipe