The G&T Redux: 5 Twists On The Classic Recipe For Summer Sipping

Gin and tonic might appear to be a simple cocktail comprising a quality spirit and some tonic water coupled with a lime wedge. But the drink has enjoyed an enduring popularity because of its vibrant flavour profile and its notes that make it a refreshing beverage round the year.

It is no wonder then that mixologists have been working with different ingredients and flavour pairings that can be incorporated into the classic recipe to give it imaginative twists that can only enhance the overall experience of sipping on this cocktail.

During summers, this flavourful creativity takes on a more intense connotation because it is these different tastes and infusions that make a classic like gin and tonic stand out when the heat simply gets too much. The spirit itself carries a very fresh flourish and when it is combined with other floral and fruity ingredients that pack an identical rejuvenating quality, the drink achieves an elevated oomph perfect for summer weather.

Read on below to know more about some of the imaginative twists you can put on a traditional gin and tonic recipe when you next host a summer bash:

Floral G&T

In summers, floral liqueurs inspire quite an aromatic and pleasing quality in your drinks that works towards building a refreshing vibe into your cocktail game. You can incorporate your gin and tonic prepared from quality Tanqueray No. Ten with elderflower liqueur or a delightful lavender liqueur for their aromas that induce very pleasant sensations in spite of the sweaty summers. They also infuse into your cocktails a refreshing and vibrant quality that can be enhanced by using flavoured tonic water like lemon or ginger for a heightened zestiness.

Cucumber Infused Gin And Tonic

Prepare a classic gin and tonic and sprinkle a dash of lemon juice on the cocktail for a zesty touch. Next, add hydrating cucumber slices to the recipe to craft a rejuvenating drink perfect for summer weather. You can also incorporate cucumber infused water into the cocktail if you want to do away with the little round slices. A splash of elderflower liqueur or flavoured tonic water will add some more textural delights that elevate the complexity of the drink.

Sloe Gin And Tonic

While a classic gin is traditionally made using juniper berries, sloe gin incorporates sloe berries into its making and generally has a slightly fruity and plum-like flavour. Its deep maroon hues and warming quality make it a staple drink in autumn, yet you can reimagine a classic gin and tonic recipe by incorporating a splash of sloe gin into the mix. This can be paired with zesty lemon flavoured tonic water for a vibrant note that is perfect for warm climes.

Grapefruit G&T

Grapefruits are a staple in the tropics during summer and are sought after for their tangy and sour flavour notes that bring a delightful zestiness into any cocktail concoction. You can prepare a classic gin and tonic with the addition of grapefruit juice and some fresh rosemary to balance the drink’s tart qualities. Use a generous 45 ml pour of Tanqueray No. Ten Gin to and lemon flavoured tonic water craft this cocktail that will nicely complement the fresh grapefruit. Serve this drink as an alternative to some run of the mill cocktails when you are hosting a tiki or island themed party.

Minty G&T

Gin already packs a host of herbaceous notes which add to its slightly fruity yet savoury finish. You can further celebrate these components in the spirit with the addition of other herbs into the recipe like some muddled fresh mint that infuses the drink with a fragrant spike. The slightly spicy and refreshing notes of the herb paired with some ginger flavoured tonic water will only elevate the overall flavours of the cocktail. This refreshing tipple with such rejuvenating qualities is the perfect drink to sip on at a leisurely garden party hosted during summer.