Starting with some simple serving suggestions for classic Indian Tonic, here are our tips for different ways to get creative with a cocktail.
Tonic Water Gin Mixers
The classic choice, tonic water is the traditional go-to mixer for gin. But, in addition to a quick 'ice and a slice' recipes, lots of variations - from good old Indian and slimline to quirky aromatic and fruity infusions - mean it's possible to experiment with new twists.
Try: 50ml any dry gin and 150ml tonic water, with wedges/slices of your favourite fruit (or cucumber for a fresh, cool finish).
Fruit Juice Gin Mixers
Easy to make, a Gin & Juice cocktail is refreshing and tasty in equal measure. Try orange, mango, pineapple and apple juices if you have a sweet tooth, or cranberry and grapefruit if you prefer a bitter twist.
Try: 50ml any dry gin with 125ml fruit juice of your choice served over ice.
Flavoured Lemonade Gin Mixers
A splash of fruity fizz in your gin drink is sure to be a treat. Try different kinds of pink, traditional or cloudy lemonade with extra ingredients like pomegranate or strawberries to find your new favourite blend.
Try: 50ml any dry or botanical gin with 125ml of your chosen lemonade - add fruit to garnish.
Ginger Drink Gin Mixers
Ginger might sound like a new thing when it comes to gin cocktails, but did you know that gin and gingerbread is one of the first recorded alcohol and food pairings, enjoyed at the London Frost Fairs of the 1800s? Its spicy flavour has set off a whole new trend for flavoured gins, but if you like a dry or botancal base, ginger ales and beers make ideal mixers.
Try: 50ml Whitley Neill Rhubarb & Ginger Gin, 150ml ginger ale, a wedge of lime, ice.
Sparkling Water Gin Mixers
Soda water works well with sweeter liqueurs and syrup recipes, while sparkling water - especially if it's flavoured - is a great way to bring gin to life without over-complicating your cocktail.
Try: 50ml Durham Strawberry and Pink Pepper Liqueur, 25ml freshly squeezed lemon juice, 10ml grenadine syrup, soda water, lemon slices, cocktail cherries.
