Gin Tonic: the complete guide to recipes, variations, and spices
Clean, aromatic, and refreshing — the Gin Tonic is one of the most iconic cocktails for its simplicity and versatility. A small change in the gin, tonic, or garnish can completely transform the experience. Also explore the craft drinks on Maltese for your next aperitif.
Classic recipe
- 50 ml gin
- 120–150 ml premium tonic
- Plenty of ice
- Garnish: lemon or lime peel, juniper sprig
Fill the glass with ice, pour the gin, add the tonic gently by letting it flow over a spoon to preserve the bubbles. Stir once, garnish, and serve cold.
Pink Gin Tonic
- 50 ml gin with floral botanicals (damask rose or rose petals)
- 100–120 ml light tonic
- 10 ml raspberry syrup or rose-based liqueur
- Garnish: edible rose petals or fresh raspberries
Non-alcoholic Gin Tonic
- Commercial non-alcoholic gin or botanical infusion (juniper, coriander, citrus peels in hot water, then filtered and cooled)
- Premium tonic, not too sweet
- Ratio: 1:3 (non-alcoholic gin : tonic)
- Garnish: grapefruit slice, rosemary
Types of Gin Tonic
- London Dry G&T: dry, citrusy, bitter tonic — classic and crisp
- Floral/Botanical G&T: floral gin, delicate tonic, garnish with petals
- Navy Strength G&T: high-proof gin, robust tonic, smaller serving
- Spiced G&T: spiced gin, classic tonic, garnish with toasted spices
Spices and botanicals to use
- Juniper: essential, also use as garnish
- Coriander: citrusy and earthy notes, great with classic gins
- Cardamom: spicy and aromatic, with smooth tonics
- Pink pepper: fruity aroma and mild spiciness
- Cinnamon and star anise: use sparingly, for winter gin tonics
Tip: lightly toast the spices dry in a pan for a few seconds before using as garnish — it intensifies the aroma.
Practical tips for a perfect Gin Tonic
- Use large glasses (balloon or highball) and plenty of ice
- Ratios: 1:2 to 1:4 (gin : tonic) depending on taste
- Add tonic slowly to keep the bubbles
- Choose garnish to highlight the gin’s botanicals
- Serve immediately: freshness and fizz are everything
Looking for an alternative craft aperitif?
If you want something different from the classic gin tonic, try the Sidro Spritz Baladin: orange-honey color, notes of mandarin, gentian, and green apple — perfect as a base for a craft spritz or to drink neat as an aperitif.
