The Re-Birth of the Gin and Tonic

Like most cocktails, the gin and tonic has enjoyed different levels of popularity throughout the years. However, it’s in the middle of a big upsurge again and we couldn’t be happier with how it’s being reinvented by some mixologists.

Classic drinks in general are big again: the Manhattan, an Old-Fashioned and the Martini. They are back in their most basic form, but they are also coming back to bars around the country with some fancy new twists. We all know how America loves a good makeover, right?

In case you’re behind the times, a gin and tonic is made with ice, gin, tonic water and garnished with lime (that many people like to squeeze into the drink). That refreshing concoction is proving to be an excellent starting point for some more creative cocktails, right in time for the warmer summer months. Here are some variations we’ve seen that you can try at home:

Bring in the cucumber. Cucumbers add such a refreshing component to gin and tonics. Some people like to simply swap the lime with the cucumber, while others combine the two ingredients. We’ve seen many recipes that call for muddling the cucumber first with mint, rosemary or rose.

This drink just tastes like summer – muddle together blackberries, mint leaves, lemon juice and simple syrup. Then top the glass off with ice, gin and tonic water. Stir it up, and possibly garnish with lemon slices and/or mint leaves, if you so desire.

What are you going to do with all of those beautiful red strawberries you bought at Saturday’s farmers market? Drown them in gin, of course. A strawberry basil gin and tonic is different in a fun way – not an “oh gosh, I don’t know if I can drink that” way. Just muddle together strawberries and basil leaves. Add gin, mix together, pour over ice, squeeze in some lime juice and top it off with tonic water.

The thing to keep in mind when you’re reinventing your own gin and tonic is to make it light and refreshing. Use great summer ingredients and get creative. You can always visit your local bar, too – there’s a really good chance they have some interesting twists to try as well.