Britain has such a deep love for the humble G&T, sales of gin are set to rise to £1 billion by 2020.
So we spoke to two gin aficionados to find out exactly what it takes to transform yourself from G&T novice to fledgling mixologist.
1. The perfect glass. An old tumbler from the back of your cupboard simply won't do, we're told: "Contrary to the traditional highball glass, one with a good opening – like a copa, tumbler or even a red wine glass – can really enhance the nose and allow you to take in all the fragrant botanicals in the gin," says Simon Gamble, Product Creative Director of Two Birds Spirits.
2. The right amount of ice. "It's crucial to get your glass as cold as possible," says James Chase, CEO and Founder of Chase Distillery. "Add as much ice as you possibly can (and make sure it's clear). I always say the more ice you use, the less dilution you get – meaning you'll really be able to taste the quality of the gin."
3. Get the measurements right. "It all depends on your day, and whether you've had a bad one or not!" James laughs. "But for taste, I always go with a quarter of gin and three-quarters tonic."
Simon Gamble recommends a nice 50ml glug as the perfect gin measurement per glass.
4. Pick your tonic wisely. "As the tonic amounts to three-quarters of the G&T, it should ideally be top-notch quality," Simon advises. "I'd also stick to 'unflavoured' tonic waters, as the garnishes on a G&T really enhance the flavour."
Both gin experts love the taste of Fever Tree and Fentimans tonic in their G&T, but James stresses that there are a lot of different tonics to choose from and some are better suited to others to different gins. So if you have Schweppes, or even supermarket-brand tonic knocking about, they'll still do a good job.
5. Get adventurous with the garnishes. "A G&T is personal," Simon tells us. "If you want something refreshing and citrus-y, you can't go wrong with a classic lime wedge. However, if you're after something a little warmer and spicier, orange peel and star anise are delicious. If you're after a floral G&T, garnish with some thyme elderflower."
"You should also consider the predominant botanicals used to make the gin," adds James. "For example, our GB gin has hints of juniper and ginger, so I always suggest to friends to garnish with a slice of ginger."
Other garnish ideas can include:
- Pink grapefruit and rosemary
- Cucumber, mint and black peppercorns
- Strawberry and basil
- Chillies and lime
6. It's all about the order. "The order in which you mix your G&T is crucial," says James. "Get the glass as cold as possible first, then add the ice and pour out any excess water. Next, add the gin, then the tonic. Finally, stir the drink before adding the garnish of your preference."
From Good Housekeeping UK
