Gin & Tonic: History, recipe and secrets of the most refreshing cocktail

The Gin & Tonic is one of the most iconic and versatile cocktails in the world. Its simple yet elegant combination has conquered bars, terraces and social gatherings, becoming a favourite choice for those looking for a refreshing drink full of aromatic nuances.

Despite its apparent simplicity, the Gin & Tonic is a cocktail that hides history, technique and endless creative possibilities. From its medicinal origin to its current status as a premium drink, its evolution has been marked by innovation and experimentation.

In this article, we explore the origin of the Gin & Tonic, its classic recipe, its essential ingredients and some secrets to preparing a memorable version.

History of Gin & Tonic: from malaria remedy to cult cocktail

The Gin & Tonic was born in the 19th century, at the height of the expansion of the British Empire. At that time, British soldiers in India faced a mortal enemy: malaria. The only effective way to prevent this disease was by consuming quinine, a natural compound extracted from the bark of the cinchona tree, which was used in medicinal tonics.

The problem was that quinine had a very intense bitter taste. To make it more drinkable, the British began to mix it with sparkling water, sugar and lime. But the key came when someone decided to add gin, the most popular alcoholic drink among British soldiers. Thus was born the Gin & Tonic, a cocktail that combined functionality with pleasure and that, over time, became a symbol of sophistication.

Today, the Gin & Tonic has evolved beyond its medicinal origins, becoming a cult drink with endless possibilities for customization thanks to the enormous variety of gins, tonics and botanicals available.

What's in a Gin Tonic?

A classic Gin & Tonic is made up of just two essential ingredients:

• Gin: the base of the cocktail, responsible for its character and personality. Its flavour varies depending on the type of gin, which can be more citrus, floral, spicy or herbal.

• Tonic: a carbonated drink with quinine that provides bubbles, freshness and a slight characteristic bitterness.

However, nowadays it is common to add additional ingredients to enhance its aroma and flavour. From citrus slices to aromatic herbs and exotic spices, creativity has no limits.

What do you put in Gin Tonics?

Additional ingredients in a Gin & Tonic can completely transform its flavour profile. Some of the most popular options include:

Citrus:

• Slices of lemon, lime, grapefruit or orange, which reinforce fresh and acidic nuances.

• Citrus peel squeezed over the cocktail to provide aromatic essential oils.

Spices:

• Juniper berries: enhance the classic flavour of gin.

• Pink or black pepper: add a spicy and sophisticated touch.

• Cinnamon stick: introduces a warm and spicy note.

• Cardamom: adds depth and an exotic touch.

Fresh herbs:

• Rosemary: perfect for an intense herbal touch.

• Basil or thyme: add freshness and complexity.

• Mint: ideal for a light, summery Gin & Tonic.

Fruits and flowers:

• Cucumber: softens the bitterness and gives a refreshing touch.

• Forest fruits: such as raspberries or blueberries, add sweetness and colour.

• Flowers such as hibiscus or lavender: enhance the floral part of the gin.

Each combination of ingredients creates a different experience, which makes the Gin & Tonic such a versatile and customisable cocktail.

Even so, if you use a 100&NOMORE artisan gin, we recommend using a neutral tonic and not adding any extra ingredients to fully enjoy the flavours that have been designed.

100&NOMORE gins have their own character, so they do not require additional spices in the glass.

Gin Tonic recipe: the perfect preparation

Ingredients:

✅ 50 ml of 100&NOMORE artisan gin (the one you like the most)

✅ 200 ml of premium tonic

✅ Ice cubes in large cubes

✅ Twist of the recommended citrus in each case (lemon, lime, grapefruit...)

Steps to prepare the perfect Gin & Tonic:

• Fill a balloon glass or a tall glass with ice and stir to chill the glass.

• Add the gin and let it soak in the ice.

• Gently add the tonic, pouring it in with the help of a spoon to preserve the bubbles.

• Peel and squeeze the recommended citrus peel (without the white part)

• Stir gently and enjoy.

Conclusion: the versatility of Gin & Tonic

The Gin & Tonic is more than just a cocktail: it's a sensory experience that suits any occasion and taste. With its balance of freshness, bitterness and botanical aromas, it has become a timeless classic that continues to evolve.

Whether in its most purist version or with a touch of spice, preparing a perfect Gin & Tonic is an art. So next time you serve one, take a moment to experiment with different ingredients and enjoy every nuance in your glass.

Ready to discover your favorite combination? Cheers to that! 🍸