Berry Gin and Tonic Cocktail Recipe

Berry Gin and Tonic Nutrition Facts

Calories:150

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:15g

Alcohol:14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Gin and Tonic is a classic cocktail with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. Originally used by the British army in India as a means to prevent malaria, the addition of quinine (tonic water) to their gin ration made the medicine more palatable. The Berry Gin and Tonic is a modern twist on this classic, incorporating fresh berries to give a fruity and refreshing edge perfect for summer days or as a vibrant start to an evening.

  • Origins: The original Gin and Tonic was a medicinal tonic.
  • Evolution: Over time, it has become a sophisticated cocktail.
  • Popularity: Loved by those who appreciate a classic with a fruity twist.

How Berry Gin and Tonic Tastes?

The Berry Gin and Tonic tastes refreshingly crisp with a harmonious blend of juniper from the gin and the sweet-tartness of the berries. The effervescence of the tonic water adds a lightness that makes it a delightful sipper.

Interesting facts about Berry Gin and Tonic

  • Versatility: Can be made with a variety of berries, each imparting its unique flavor.
  • Customization: Easily customizable with different garnishes and tonic waters.
  • Social Drink: Often associated with social gatherings and warm weather.

Ingredients

A few good options for Berry Gin and Tonic are:

  • Tanqueray Gin
  • Roku Japanese Gin

Learn everything on which Gin to choose

Gin

Gin is the backbone of this drink, providing a botanical kick that's crucial for the character of any G&T. At 1.5oz, it's just the right amount so you still feel sophisticated without tipping overboard. If you use less, it might just whisper at your taste buds; use more, and suddenly it's less of a cocktail and more of a gin parade.

Emma Rose

Fresh Berries

A half-ounce of berries muddled in adds a sweet, tangy twist to the classic. They're like the life of the party, without them, it's just not as fun. Plus, they give that gorgeous color that makes you feel the berry love. No berries, no berry merry.

Alex Green

Tonic Water

The 4oz of tonic water adds that refreshing fizz that lifts the whole drink. It's like the perfect wingman for gin, complementing its flavor while also bringing something unique to the table. Got no tonic? You've got a gin lemonade on your hands, not a gin and tonic.

Mary Mitkina

Ice Cubes

The unsung heroes of any good cocktail. They keep things cool without watering down the party too quickly. Just right is a full glass, skimp on them, and your berries will be swimming in warm gin.

Emma Rose

Lemon Twist

That little curl of lemon zest is the cocktail's zingy hat. It's there for aroma as much as flavor—a cocktail without a garnish is like an outfit without a pocket square: fine, but could be better.

Alex Green

Lemon Juice

Half an ounce adds just the right puckering punch to complement the sweetness and the botanicals. It's like the citrusy handshake between the gin and the berries. Skip it, and the balance is thrown off.

Mary Mitkina

Recipe. How to make Berry Gin and Tonic Drink

  1. Muddle the fresh berries in the bottom of a highball glass.
  2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
  3. Pour the gin and lemon juice over the ice.
  4. Top with tonic water.
  5. Gently stir to combine.
  6. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Pro Tips

  • Chill the Glass: Serve the cocktail in a chilled glass to keep it refreshing longer.
  • Quality Tonic: Use a high-quality tonic water for the best flavor.
  • Berry Variety: Mix different types of berries for a more complex taste profile.

Perfect Pairings

Appetizers

  • Cheese Platters: A selection of soft and hard cheeses helps to contrast the cocktail's brightness.
  • Seafood: Light dishes like shrimp cocktail or ceviche complement the refreshing qualities of the gin and tonic.

Main Courses

  • Grilled Chicken: The herbal notes in gin and the acidity from the lemon juice work well with grilled or roasted chicken.
  • Salads: Fresh green salads with vinaigrette dressings can enhance the fresh flavors of the berries.

Desserts

  • Lemon Sorbet: The citrus flavors of the sorbet will pair beautifully with the lemon twist in the drink.
  • Dark Chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate would be a perfect counterbalance to the sweetness of the berries.

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What you could change in Berry Gin and Tonic

  • Gin: Any dry gin can be used, but for a more floral note, try using Hendrick's or Bombay Sapphire.
  • Berries: If fresh berries are not available, a berry syrup can be a good substitute.
  • Tonic Water: For a less sweet version, use a diet tonic water or one with natural quinine.

Explore all drinks starting with B here

And of course - twists🍹

Berry Herbal Gin and Tonic

Replace the lemon twist with a sprig of thyme or rosemary for a garden-fresh aroma. The herbal scent will make you feel like you're sipping in the great outdoors, with each sip whispering sweet nothings of nature into your palate.

Spicy Berry Gin and Tonic

Add a slice of jalapeño to the muddled berries for a kick. This isn't for the faint of heart, spices may lead you down a fiery path that even the berries’ sweetness can't fully extinguish. It's vibrant, it's daring, it's your cocktail with a daredevil twist.

Bubbly Berry Gin and Tonic

Substitute half the tonic water with sparkling wine for a celebratory pop. It'll add a layer of sophisticated fizziness that makes any ordinary day feel like New Year's Eve. This version is the life of the party—your taste buds will thank you for the upgrade.

In case you forgot basics how to make Berry Gin and Tonic

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

The key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.

Learn everything on how to muddle

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Berry Gin and Tonic

How do I choose the best type of glass for a Berry Gin and Tonic?

A highball glass is typically used for a Berry Gin and Tonic to accommodate the volume of the tonic and ice, as well as to display the color and garnishes effectively.

Is there a preferred type of ice for Gin and Tonics?

Larger ice cubes or ice spheres are preferred as they melt slower, reducing dilution and keeping the drink colder for longer.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?

Yes, you can create a 'mocktail' version by substituting gin with a non-alcoholic spirit or simply increasing the amount of tonic and berries.

What are some common garnishes used for Gin and Tonics besides a lemon twist?

Common garnishes include lime wedges, cucumber slices, sprigs of rosemary or mint, and even peppercorns for a more adventurous twist.

How should I store my gin for the best flavor?

Gin should be stored in a cool, dark place. Unlike whisky or wine, gin does not mature or change flavor after bottling, so the main goal is to preserve its existing flavor profile.

What's the difference between a regular tonic water and one with natural quinine?

Natural quinine tonic waters are often less sweet and have a more bitter, complex flavor profile that can add depth to your cocktail.

How can I adjust the sweetness level of my Berry Gin and Tonic?

Adjusting sweetness can be done by varying the amount of berries used, choosing a different tonic water, or adding a splash of simple syrup if desired.

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