What are the Best Mixers for a Classic Gin and Tonic?
There’s nothing like a refreshing gin and tonic on a warm summer’s day or in the early evening as the sun sets. The smooth taste of gin complemented by the effervescent lift of tonic water has been a classic drink combination for centuries.
But, not all gin and tonic combinations are created equal. The mixers you choose can make a world of difference in taste and presentation. So, what are the best mixers for a classic gin and tonic? Let’s dive in!
Tonic Water
Let’s start with the most important ingredient – tonic water. Tonic water provides the bubbles and sweetness that balances out the bitterness in gin, and choosing the right tonic water can make a big difference.
You want to look for high-quality tonic waters made with natural ingredients. Steer clear of tonic waters with high fructose corn syrup or aspartame, as these sweeteners can overpower the botanical taste of gin.
Brands such as Fever-Tree, Q Tonic, and Fentimans use natural ingredients, including quinine, which gives tonic water its distinct taste. They also offer a range of flavours from classic Indian Tonic Water to Mediterranean or Elderflower tonic that adds its own twist to the classic recipe.
Gin
While tonic water is the star of the show, gin also plays an important role. Not all gins are created equal, though – different gins have different flavour profiles that you don’t want to mess up with the wrong mixer.
London Dry Gin is the classic gin that you want in your G&T. It’s juniper-forward and has a crisp, clean taste, without any artificial flavourings to interfere. Some of the best gins you can choose are Tanqueray, Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire, and Hendrick’s – all of which are typically available at most bars.
If you’re looking for something a little different, then why not switch to a different type of gin altogether such as Old Tom Gin or Plymouth Gin? Alternatively, to get that little spice that almost kicks the gin flavor up a notch, try Genever gin from Belgium or Holland.
Garnishes
No classic G&T is complete without a garnish. This is where you can get really creative while adding an extra layer of flavour. Below are some popular gin garnishes that you can try with your G&T.
Lemon
Lemon is the most commonly used garnish for a classic gin and tonic. It adds tangy and acidic notes to the drink that complement the bitter taste of gin. Cut a wedge of lemon and squeeze it into your G&T, or if you’re going for presentation, run the rim of your glass with a lemon peel and then drop it in.
Lime
Lime is another popular citrus garnish that works just as well as lemon. It has a slightly sweeter taste that can help to balance out the bitterness of gin. You can add a lime wedge or slice to your gin and tonic, or rim your glass with lime juice or just add a squeeze of lime juice, like the Brazilians do, for that classic flavor.
Cucumber
Cucumber adds a subtle and refreshing flavour to your G&T making it the perfect option for those hot summer days. It’s also perfect for people who aren’t big fans of citrusy or herbal flavours. Chop a slice of cucumber to drop into your drink, or better yet, finely slice a portion for that additional crisp texture.
Mint
Mint is perfect for those who want to add an extra layer of herbaceousness to their gin and tonic. Muddle a few fresh mint leaves at the bottom of your glass before pouring in the gin and tonic – the aroma alone is sure to be delightful with every sip.
Ice
Now that you have your mixer, gin, and garnish chosen, it’s time to add the finishing touch: ice. Ice is important to the final presentation of your G&T with both its size and quantity making a difference in taste.
Larger ice cubes melt slowly, which is ideal for a drink like gin and tonic. Small cubes melt quicker, diluting the drink too quickly and losing its crisp flavour. Keep your ice cold but not too frozen so that it won’t take long to chill your gin and tonic while diluting it at the same time.
Glassware
The last thing to consider when making a gin and tonic is the glassware. While it may seem like a minor detail, the type of glass can make a difference in how your drink looks and tastes.
A highball glass or collins glass is the traditional glassware for a gin and tonic. The tall, slim shape helps to showcase the bubbles and garnish. Additionally, it gives ample space to add ice and still have plenty of room for your gin and tonic.
Conclusion
These are some of the best mixers for a classic gin and tonic. Keep in mind that the best gin and tonic recipe varies from person to person. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of gin, tonic water, garnishes, ice, and glassware to determine your perfect mix.
Whether you’re a gin lover or are trying it for the first time, a classic gin and tonic is one of the most refreshing drinks out there. Follow these tips, experiment with your ingredients, and you’ll have a perfectly balanced and refreshing drink.
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