Perfect G&T
Oh hi, I’m out to change everyone’s mind on gin. I always hear people say, “make me anything as long as it isn’t with gin.” Challenge accepted, as I proceed to make them something with gin. If you don’t like gin you aren’t drinking it right. Gin is one of the greatest spirits because it’s so versatile. It’s like a mushroom, it can take on so many different characteristics and tastes. Maybe that’s a weird analogy but it’s totally true.
For years my favorite gin was an Old Tom’s gin, specifically Haymen’s. More recently there has been a number of new gins and styles hitting the market. People think gin and they think juniper but not anymore. Gin has completely transformed from the traditional heavy juniper taste to more notes of citrus/fruits and botanicals/herbs.
I have three favorite gins right now.
Haymen’s Old Tom Gin, which is heavy on the botanicals and slightly sweetened. It’s a good gin to try if you are yet to be a believer.
Uncle Val’s Botanical Gin, which has a little citrus with a lot or herbaceousness and botanicals. They also have a “peppered” version which has a slight kick from peppercorns.
The Botanist is bursting with botanicals. It is more of a traditional gin with its nine customary gin aromatics, but they also add 22 extra added botanicals.
The most important component to this recipe and all your gin and tonics is the tonic. Get the idea of canned/bottled pre-carbonated tonic out of you head. Bye. What you need is small batch tonic. It is like a syrup in consistency and it is what makes this drink perfect. My absolute favorite is Jack Ruby’s Small Batch Tonic and their Elderflower Small Batch Tonic. You can buy it on their website or on amazon. Stock up!
The only other ingredients you need besides your gin and small batch tonic is lime and soda water. I will throw so many more gin cocktails your way but you first need to know how to make and drink a proper and perfect G&T.
Perfect Gin & Tonic Recipe
The Botanist Gin, Jack Ruby Small Batch Tonic, Soda Water, Lime, Ice, Edible Flower (optional)
1.5 oz gin
1 oz small batch tonic
1oz or 1/2 lime press,
4 oz soda water
In a glass add your gin, small batch tonic, and lime. Add in your ice and stir gently with a bar spoon. Garnish with dehydrated lime, fresh lime, or edible flowers.
*note- I get my edible flowers locally from Urban Rebel Farms. I have a dehydrator for my fruit but if you do not you can place your sliced citrus in a 100 degree oven until completely dry.