What’s the best tonic to mix with gin?

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7 Tonic Waters that Match Perfectly with Your Gin

Are you tired of always ordering the same gin and tonic? Do you want to explore new flavors and colors without sacrificing the essential balance between the juniper-based spirit and its fizzy and bitter partner? Then, you are in the right place. In this blog post, we will introduce you to seven tonic waters that can elevate your gin game and provide you with a refreshing and dynamic experience. Each tonic water has a different profile, from herbal to floral, from spicy to citrusy, from sweet to dry, and we will suggest some gin brands that might complement or contrast it. Keep in mind that taste is subjective, and you may have your own preferences and combinations. However, we hope that these recommendations inspire you to experiment and enjoy the wide world of gin and tonic.

#1 Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water

Fever-Tree is a popular British brand that produces high-quality and natural tonic waters that respect the original purpose of the drink: to prevent malaria by combining quinine with water and sugar. The Mediterranean Tonic Water is one of the most versatile and refreshing options, as it blends several herbs and citrus fruits such as thyme, rosemary, lemon, and orange. This tonic water has a gentle bitterness that enhances the gin’s complexity without overpowering it. We suggest pairing Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Water with Mediterranean or citrus gins such as Monkey 47, Citadelle, or Gin Mare. You can serve it with ice, a slice of lemon, and a sprig of thyme or rosemary.

#2 Schweppes Indian Tonic Water

Schweppes is a classic tonic water brand that has been around for more than two centuries and remains a trustworthy and affordable option. The Indian Tonic Water is the most common and straightforward tonic water, as it maintains a crisp and dry taste that balances the sweetness and the botanicals of the gin. This tonic water contains natural quinine and carbonated water, and it is slightly less bitter than some of its competitors. We suggest pairing Schweppes Indian Tonic Water with London Dry or juniper-forward gins such as Beefeater, Tanqueray, or Bombay Sapphire. You can serve it with ice, a wedge of lime, and a sprig of mint.

#3 Luscombe Devon Tonic Water

Luscombe is a small but innovative tonic water producer located in Devon, England, that uses organic and locally sourced ingredients to create distinctive and flavorful tonics. The Devon Tonic Water is a premium and artisanal choice that boasts a rich and complex range of flavors, including juniper, cardamom, and grapefruit. This tonic water has a more pronounced bitterness and a smoother texture than most tonic waters, which can enhance or contrast the gin’s character. We suggest pairing Luscombe Devon Tonic Water with niche or aromatic gins such as Aviation, The Botanist, or Roku. You can serve it with ice, a slice of grapefruit, and a sprig of thyme.

#4 Fentimans Pink Grapefruit Tonic Water

Fentimans is another British tonic water brand that uses natural and botanical ingredients to create unique and playful tonics. The Pink Grapefruit Tonic Water is a colorful and tangy option that combines pink grapefruit juice, quinine, and organic cane sugar to deliver a zesty and sweet taste. This tonic water is less bitter and more flavorful than most tonic waters, which can balance or complement the gin’s fruitiness. We suggest pairing Fentimans Pink Grapefruit Tonic Water with citrus or fruit-forward gins such as Tanqueray Sevilla, Hendrick’s Orbium, or Brockmans. You can serve it with ice, a slice of pink grapefruit, and a sprig of mint.

#5 East Imperial Yuzu Tonic Water

East Imperial is a New Zealand tonic water brand that specializes in Asian-inspired tonics that showcase local spices, fruits, and herbs. The Yuzu Tonic Water is a refreshing and exotic option that features the Japanese citrus fruit yuzu, ginger, and quinine. This tonic water has a light and tangy bitterness that can elevate or contrast the gin’s spice and acidity. We suggest pairing East Imperial Yuzu Tonic Water with gin brands that have an Asian twist such as Ki No Bi, Kyro, or Roku. You can serve it with ice, a slice of cucumber, and a pinch of black salt.

#6 Franklin & Sons Natural Indian Tonic Water with Elderflower

Franklin & Sons is a British tonic water brand that focuses on using natural and sustainable ingredients to create elegant and refined tonics. The Natural Indian Tonic Water with Elderflower is a delicate and aromatic option that marries the traditional Indian tonic water with the subtle and floral notes of elderflower. This tonic water has a light and refreshing bitterness that can balance or complement the gin’s floral and herbal profile. We suggest pairing Franklin & Sons Natural Indian Tonic Water with flowery or herbaceous gins such as Hendrick’s, Sipsmith, or Bloom. You can serve it with ice, a slice of cucumber, and a few elderflower petals.

#7 Double Dutch Cucumber & Watermelon Tonic Water

Double Dutch is a young and dynamic tonic water brand that experiments with unusual and innovative combinations of flavors. The Cucumber & Watermelon Tonic Water is a summery and juicy option that blends the freshness of cucumber with the sweetness of watermelon, as well as quinine and carbonated water. This tonic water has a mild bitterness and a fruity and relaxing character that can enhance or contrast the gin’s aromas. We suggest pairing Double Dutch Cucumber & Watermelon Tonic Water with contemporary or fruity gins such as Gin Eva, Martin Miller’s, or Ophir. You can serve it with ice, a slice of cucumber, and a sprig of basil or mint.

Conclusion

Gin and tonic is a classic drink that has evolved and diversified over time, thanks to the creativity and experimentation of tonic water producers and bartenders worldwide. By choosing the right tonic water, you can enhance the flavor, aroma, and appearance of your gin and tonic and make it a memorable and enjoyable experience. Whether you prefer a herbal, floral, spicy, citrusy, sweet, or dry profile, there is a tonic water out there that can match your gin and mood. We hope that this blog post has inspired you to explore, discover, and savor the best tonic waters for your gin. Cheers!

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