A gin and tonic is a classic cocktail that is both refreshing and easy to make. Perfect for a hot summer day or a casual evening, this drink combines the botanical flavors of gin with the crispness of tonic water. A wedge of lime adds a zesty finish, making it a delightful beverage for any occasion.
If you don't usually keep gin at home, you'll need to pick up a bottle from the liquor section of your supermarket. Tonic water is typically found in the beverage aisle, often near the mixers. Make sure to get a fresh lime from the produce section for the garnish.
Ingredients for Gin and Tonic Recipe
Gin: A distilled alcoholic beverage made from juniper berries and other botanicals, providing a unique and aromatic flavor.
Tonic water: A carbonated soft drink that contains quinine, giving it a slightly bitter taste that pairs well with gin.
Lime: A citrus fruit used for its juice and zest, adding a fresh and tangy flavor to the drink.
Ice: Frozen water used to chill the drink and keep it refreshing.
Technique Tip for Making This Drink
To elevate the gin and tonic, consider using a premium tonic water as it can significantly enhance the overall flavor. Additionally, gently roll the lime wedge on the counter before cutting to release more of its juices, ensuring a more aromatic and flavorful garnish.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
gin - Substitute with vodka: Vodka has a neutral flavor that can mimic the alcoholic content without the botanical notes of gin.
gin - Substitute with white rum: White rum offers a different but complementary flavor profile that can work well with tonic water.
tonic water - Substitute with club soda: Club soda provides the same effervescence without the bitterness of tonic water.
tonic water - Substitute with lemon-lime soda: Lemon-lime soda adds a sweet and citrusy flavor, making the drink more refreshing.
lime wedge - Substitute with lemon wedge: Lemon provides a similar acidic and citrusy note that complements the drink.
lime wedge - Substitute with orange slice: Orange adds a sweeter citrus flavor, offering a different but pleasant twist.
ice - Substitute with frozen fruit: Frozen fruit like berries can chill the drink while adding a subtle fruity flavor.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Drink
How To Store / Freeze This Drink
- Ensure your gin and tonic water are stored in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality. Light and heat can degrade the flavors.
- Keep your lime wedges fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week this way.
- If you have leftover gin, transfer it to a smaller bottle to minimize air exposure, which can affect its taste over time.
- For a pre-made gin and tonic, mix the gin and tonic water in a bottle and store it in the refrigerator. Consume within 24 hours for the best taste.
- Avoid freezing tonic water as it can lose its carbonation, resulting in a flat drink.
- If you must freeze gin, note that it won't freeze solid due to its alcohol content, but it will become more viscous. Store it in a tightly sealed container to prevent any flavor loss.
- For a quick chill, place your gin in the freezer for about 30 minutes before making your drink. This will ensure a cold, refreshing gin and tonic without diluting it with too much ice.
- Always use fresh ice to avoid any off-flavors from old or reused ice. Store ice in a clean, odor-free freezer compartment.
- If you prefer a more intense lime flavor, you can freeze lime wedges and use them as ice cubes. This will keep your drink cold while adding a zesty kick.
How To Reheat Leftovers
- Unfortunately, reheating a gin and tonic isn't recommended. The ice will melt, diluting the drink, and the tonic water will lose its carbonation, resulting in a flat and less enjoyable beverage. Instead, consider making a fresh gin and tonic to ensure the best taste and experience.
Best Tools for Making This Drink
Highball glass: A tall glass used to serve the gin and tonic, allowing for proper mixing and presentation.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used to gently stir the gin and tonic without causing too much fizz.
Jigger: A measuring tool used to accurately measure the 2 oz of gin.
Ice scoop: A tool used to fill the highball glass with ice without making a mess.
Knife: Used to cut the lime wedge for garnish.
Cutting board: A surface to safely cut the lime wedge.
Tonic water bottle: The container from which you pour the tonic water.
How to Save Time on Making This Drink
Pre-chill your glass: Keep your highball glass in the freezer for a few minutes before making your gin and tonic. This ensures your drink stays colder longer.
Use pre-measured ingredients: Measure out your gin and tonic water ahead of time. This makes the assembly quick and easy.
Ready your garnish: Slice your lime wedge in advance and store it in the fridge. This saves time when you’re ready to serve.
Batch your drinks: If making multiple gin and tonics, mix them in a pitcher and pour into individual glasses. This speeds up the process.

Gin and Tonic Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Gin
- 4 oz Tonic water
- 1 Lime wedge for garnish
- 1 cup Ice
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour the gin over the ice.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently with a bar spoon.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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