Best Gin and Tonic Recipe

How to make a perfect gin and tonic. We share all our tips including the best gin to use and the perfect ratio of gin to tonic. Jump to the Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe or read on to see our tips for making it.

How to Make a Perfect Gin and Tonic

The key to a great gin and tonic recipe is to balance the bitterness of tonic against the gin. Never tasting one too much more than the other.

So we already know that there’s gin, tonic water and ice, but how much? What kind of gin and don’t forget the lime, right?

What kind of gin should I use to make a gin and tonic?

When making gin and tonics, choose a gin that is mid- to high-shelf. A London dry gin (such as Beefeater), Plymouth or Bombay work well. London dry gins will be more straightforward in flavor while Plymouth gin will be a bit more aromatic. We’ve also used Bombay Sapphire and loved it, but we really enjoy Sapphire’s extra spiciness.

What’s the best tonic to use for gin and tonics?

I prefer the tonic water sold in the smaller, single-serving bottles. The tonic will be fresh and you won’t lose any fizz. A lot of people swear by Schweppes, but we can’t say we have noticed a difference enough to specify on that one. We particularly enjoy the Fever Tree and Q tonics.

For a lower calorie cocktail, you can use light tonic. Light tonic doesn’t have as much flavor as regular, but it does help to lower the calories. You can also water regular tonic down with a little seltzer water or club soda.

What is the best ratio of gin to tonic?

A gin and tonic should be crisp and refreshing, never boozy or heavy. After doing some research, ratios can vary. Some enjoy equal parts gin to tonic, others reduce the gin and double the tonic. For us, we liked it right in the middle, which kept the drink light and crisp, but still aromatic from the gin.

Do I need to use lime?

A classic gin and tonic needs fresh lime. It should be refreshing and never flat on flavor. Fresh lime helps with this and brightens everything up. If you don’t have lime, lemon is an excellent substitute.

More Gin Cocktail Recipes

• You can’t go wrong with this Classic Gin Fizz Cocktail. It’s uncomplicated, fresh, light, and timeless.
• Learn what sloe gin is and how to use it to make one of our favorite cocktails: The Sloe Gin Fizz.
• Have you ever heard of a Southside Cocktail? It’s a simple cocktail recipe – Gin-based, mint-kissed with a touch of citrus.
• Add an herbal spin to the classic gin fizz cocktail with fresh rosemary and make Rosemary Gin Fizzes.

Recipe updated, originally posted December 2012. Since posting this in 2012, we have tweaked the recipe to be more clear. – Adam and Joanne