Gin and Tonic
A crisp, refreshing cocktail where the botanical notes of gin meet the bittersweet fizz of tonic water. Ready in 2 minutes with just a few ingredients, this classic highball is perfect for a warm evening or a pre-dinner drink.
For 1 serving
- prep · ~1 min
Fill the glass with ice.
Fill a highball or balloon glass all the way to the top with large ice cubes. Bigger cubes melt slower and keep the drink cold without diluting it too fast.
- mix
Pour the gin over the ice.
Measure 60 ml gin with a jigger and pour it directly over the ice.
- mix
Top with tonic water.
Slowly pour 120 ml of chilled tonic water down the side of the glass to preserve as much carbonation as possible.
TIPPouring slowly down the side keeps the drink fizzier for longer. - mix
Stir gently and add lime.
Use a bar spoon to gently lift the gin from the bottom with one or two smooth strokes. Squeeze a wedge of lime over the drink, then drop it into the glass.
TIPOne gentle stroke is enough to integrate the flavors without losing the fizz. - serve
Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use large ice cubes to slow dilution and keep the drink cold longer.
- 2Chill both the glass and tonic water beforehand for maximum fizz retention.
- 3Pour tonic down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation, not directly onto the ice.
- 4Stir gently with just one or two strokes — over-stirring flattens the tonic.
- 5Squeeze lime wedge over the drink before dropping it in to release oils and juice.
- 6For a stronger botanical flavor, swirl the gin in the glass before adding tonic.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbal G&T
Swap lime for a sprig of rosemary or a few thyme leaves — adds an earthy, aromatic layer that pairs beautifully with floral or citrus-forward gins.
Spicy G&TSpicy G&T
Muddle 2-3 slices of fresh jalapeño or a pinch of pink peppercorns with lime before adding ice — gives a gentle heat that cuts through the tonic's sweetness.
Low Sugar G&TLow-Sugar G&T
Use a diet or zero-sugar tonic water — maintains the bitter fizz with fewer calories, ideal for those watching sugar intake without sacrificing refreshment.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low-Calorie Cocktail Base
Gin is one of the lowest-calorie spirits, making this drink a lighter choice when paired with a diet tonic.
Rich in Antioxidants
Juniper berries, the primary botanical in gin, contain antioxidants that may help combat oxidative stress.
Hydrating Elements
The high water content from ice and tonic helps maintain hydration, especially on warm days.
Frequently asked questions
A London dry gin like Tanqueray or Beefeater is classic — its bold juniper and citrus notes stand up well to tonic without being overpowered.
