7 mixers that go better with gin than tonic
A G&T without the T? ‘Blasphemy!’ We hear you cry.
But hold onto your hats.
We love a gin and tonic as much as the next man, but after decades as the UK’s blockbuster drink, isn’t it time we got a bit more experimental?
Don’t worry, the G isn’t going anywhere. But the T? That’s another story. And when you’ve tried these new gin drinks, Fever-Tree will be quaking in its boots.
1. Gin and Champagne
Pexels
Let’s start off with something everyone can get on board with. What says summer more than gin? Gin with Champers of course!
It’s super easy to make. Use a Champagne glass, add a shot of gin (or double if you’re really keen) and top up with Champers.
Additions? If you’ve got a sweet tooth add a squeeze of agave syrup, or if you like it fruity, add a generous squeeze of lemon juice.
Serve as is or with a wedge of lemon.
Hello decadence.
2. Gin and Watermelon
As anyone who has done a shot of gin will know, neat gin can be pretty horrible. (We’re talking the bog-standard, non botanical-ed, basic gin that needs its partner tonic here, of course.)
But in the absence of tonic, watermelon is the perfect choice to add a touch of sweetness, plus it’s ultra refreshing on a hot day, and all that fruit’s gotta be healthy right?
Wiz up 2-3 generous chunks of watermelon to create a smooth juice, then shake with a shot or two of gin.
Additions? Try tearing up a few basil leaves for a lovely fresh flavour.
3. Gin and Ginger Ale
G&G sounds great, right? And it tastes even better. Ginger is a tangy, refreshing burst in the mouth and surprisingly doesn’t overpower the flavour of good strong gin.
Depending on your taste, you might prefer a double for this one to get the balance of flavours right. Make in a tall glass, stirred, not shaken, and add a simple lemon wedge for garnish. Perfection.
4. Gin and Lemon Juice
This bitter gin is making a comeback. Sometimes known as a Tom Collins, you want freshly squeezed lemon juice if you can get it.
Make with a shot of gin, a healthy measure of lemon juice and a darn good shake, then add sugar a little at a time until it’s palatable to your tastebuds. Don’t overdo it, though, or you’ll end up with a sweet, syrupy mess. Top up with a little soda water to thin out and add fizz.
Additions? Add a slice of orange just to be different.
5. Gin and Tea
YES TEA. Welcome to peak English.
Mix a shot of gin with two shots of chilled Earl Grey and top the rest up with soda water. This is the perfect touch for tea fans, but also those who don’t have a sweet tooth, as it’s refreshing without being cloying.
Additions: A squeeze of lemon wouldn’t go amiss here.
6. Gin and Cucumber
Make like Messrs Hendrick and ditch citric flavours for vegetables. This recipe needs a little time sitting out in the sun to really soak up the flavours so if you’re having a BBQ, make ahead of time.
Fill up about a third of a jug with gin, top up with chunks of cucumber and bruised leaves of mint, then cover with clingfilm and leave in a warm spot to infuse.
After a few hours, chuck the whole thing in a blender and whizz it all up together. Add a generous measure of ice and enjoy.
Note: This is almost pure gin and utterly lethal. Par-tay!
7. Gin and Elderflower
Elderflower cordial has become a popular addition to G&Ts particularly in the summer, for it’s refreshing, floral notes.
But take out a step and make the whole thing fresher and simpler by removing the tonic altogether. Instead, use a pre-mixed Elderflower soft drink (or mix up your own with cordial and soda water) and simply use it to top up your gin in a tall glass.
Additions? Bruise a couple of raspberries between your fingers and throw them in for colour and a sweet touch.
Cheers!
