· By Michel Vrees
How do you make the perfect gin and tonic?
A good gin and tonic seems simple, but the difference between an ordinary and a perfect gin and tonic lies in the details. With the right proportions, a good tonic, and a suitable garnish, you can make a cocktail at home that's just as delicious as one from a cocktail bar.
Step 1: Choose a good gin
The base of a gin and tonic is, of course, the gin. Popular gins include:
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London Dry Gin
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Floral gin
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Citrus gin
Each gin has its own flavor profile due to the botanicals used.
Step 2: Choose the right tonic
Not every tonic goes with every gin. Some tonics are drier, while others contain more citrus.
Popular tonics:
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Indian tonic
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Mediterranean tonic
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Elderflower tonic
Step 3: The right proportions
The ideal ratio is usually:
1 part gin – 3 parts tonic
This keeps the flavor of the gin well-balanced.
Step 4: Use plenty of ice
Use large ice cubes. This makes the ice melt slower and keeps your gin and tonic cold longer without watering it down.
Step 5: Add garnish
A garnish enhances the flavor of the gin.
Popular choices include:
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lime
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lemon
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rosemary
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cucumber
Making gin and tonic at home
With a good gin and tonic kit, you can easily make the perfect gin and tonic at home.