It’s Gin and Tonic season Ladies and Gents! At long last it’s time to grab our Gin glasses and pour in the Hendricks, Gordons, Pink gin and more as we herald in the balmy warm air and long summer evenings. But it’s been so long and as you blow away the cobwebs on your best balloon gin glasses, the question of what exactly to fill them with comes front of mind. While premade gin and tonic cans have their place, whether you’re hosting a summer soiree or enjoying a perfectly refreshing tipple to yourself on a sun-drenched afternoon, a properly poured gin cocktail reigns supreme. Pairing the best flavours for the best Gin is quite the artform so, in order to quench the needs of you or your guests, we’ve created a straight-forward guide to help you master those flavour combinations from the early doors of Summer.
Pairing Dry Gins
London Dry Gin is a type of gin originating from London that is characterised by a dry flavour profile. These gins must be dominated by Juniper flavours however, citrus notes and herbs such as coriander and angelica root are the common botanicals that follow in London dry. The key to any cocktail or G&T is always balance. So, when balancing out London dry gins, bright, sweet, citrusy and juicy flavours work best to cut through this dry flavour profile. Classic citrus fruits like lemons, limes, clementines, grapefruits and blood orange make the perfect partner to dry gins, as of their bright and acidic qualities. For something slightly sweeter, red berries like raspberries, blackberries and strawberries also typically work well. However, as a fairly versatile Gin base, you’ll find most fruit flavours can’t go too far wrong, so if you have a particular craving for pears or you’ve got some kiwis just begging to be made into a cocktail shrub syrup, then knock yourself out! Alternatively in the battle for the dirtiest Martini, bartenders amass are pushing for drier and drier versions; thus, heralding the perfect opportunity to drive an added layer of filth to your dirty Martini, encompassing brine and a touch of Vermouth for the most fashionable take on this sophisticated cocktail.
Pairing Fruity and Floral Gins
With Fruity and floral Gins, elegant flavours work best to hold these gins up without overpowering them. Subtle tonics like light or elderflower works particularly well with floral gins, in order to let the gin to really take centre stage. On the other hand, pairing fruity gins with other soft but fragrant notes can make for a beautifully crafted drink. Reach for floral pairings such as rose, lavender, hibiscus or jasmine for an aromatic delight. Alternatively cut out the middle man and dive straight in with an aromatic tonic!
Pairing Citrusy Gins
With citrus based gins, there’s a number of routes you can take. While delicate tonics like elderflower or other floral flavours pair well to showcase these punchy flavours, herbacious flavours can work wonderfully alongside zesty profiles. While clean and refreshing herbs like basil and mint create a fabulous summer thirst quencher, herbs like thyme and rosemary provide an earthy complexity to excellently balance a tangy base. Mediterranean tonics, emphasising essential oils and botanicals can also work well to draw out the vibrant citrusy favours.
Pairing Spiced Gins
When it comes to spiced gins, they frequently boast a rich, robust warmth accentuated by luxuriously complex and dusky notes. This bold group can be elevated by equally rich and flavourful ingredients. Notes of chocolate and honey can create a sweet and decadent drink, while warming mixers like ginger beer can really bring the spice to life. Try ginger beer and lime for an invigorating ‘London Mule’ variation. Alternatively, citrusy pairings can cut through the strong aromas to restore a lively and refreshing balance, perfect whatever the weather!
While a classic G&T with ice and a slice might feel like a familiar friend, it’s time to graduate from the hot pan to the roaring pyre of the open flame; exploring bold new horizons to stumble upon pairings you never knew you’d crave, and fall in love with gin and tonic all over again. At Exquisite Cocktails, we cater to all your Gin needs, no combination is too outlandish! We take pride in our expert mixologists’ ability to craft unique and delightful gin cocktails tailored to your personal tastes. Whether you prefer a classic dry gin martini or an innovative fusion of botanicals and flavours, with our extensive selection of premium craft gins and fresh ingredients, our aim is to ensure that every sip is exquisite. For a fun and novel addition, take a look at our Gin Tricycles, offering a quirky and customisable solution suitable for a diversity of events.
