A gin and tonic is a classic cocktail that is both refreshing and easy to make. Perfect for a hot summer day or a casual evening with friends, this drink combines the botanical flavors of gin with the effervescence of tonic water. A wedge of lime adds a zesty twist, making it a delightful beverage for any occasion.
If you don't already have gin at home, you will need to pick some up at the store. Look for a quality brand that suits your taste, as the flavor of the gin will be prominent in this cocktail. Tonic water is also essential and can be found in the beverage aisle. Make sure to grab a fresh lime for the garnish to add that perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients For Gin And Tonic Recipe
Gin: A distilled alcoholic beverage made from juniper berries and other botanicals, providing a unique and aromatic flavor.
Tonic water: A carbonated soft drink that contains quinine, giving it a slightly bitter taste that complements the gin.
Lime wedge: A slice of fresh lime used as a garnish to add a citrusy aroma and flavor to the drink.
Ice: Frozen water used to chill the drink and keep it refreshing.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To elevate your gin and tonic, consider chilling your highball glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes before preparing the drink. This will keep your cocktail colder for longer and enhance the refreshing experience. Additionally, gently roll the lime wedge on the counter before cutting to release more of its juices, ensuring a burst of citrus flavor with each sip.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
gin - Substitute with vodka: Vodka has a neutral flavor that can mimic the alcoholic content without the botanical notes of gin.
gin - Substitute with white rum: White rum provides a different but complementary flavor profile, adding a bit of sweetness.
tonic water - Substitute with club soda: Club soda provides the same fizzy texture without the bitterness of tonic water.
tonic water - Substitute with sparkling water: Sparkling water offers a similar effervescence and can be flavored to add complexity.
lime wedge - Substitute with lemon wedge: Lemon provides a similar citrusy brightness and acidity.
lime wedge - Substitute with orange slice: Orange adds a sweeter, less acidic citrus note.
ice - Substitute with frozen fruit: Frozen fruit like berries can chill the drink while adding a subtle flavor.
ice - Substitute with chilled stones: Chilled stones keep the drink cold without diluting it.
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How To Store / Freeze This Recipe
Ensure your gin and tonic water are stored in a cool, dark place. This helps maintain their flavors and prevents any degradation from light exposure.
Keep your lime wedges fresh by storing them in the refrigerator. Place them in a sealed container or a zip-lock bag to retain their moisture and prevent them from drying out.
If you have leftover gin and tonic water, make sure to seal the bottles tightly. This will help preserve their carbonation and prevent any loss of flavor.
For an extra burst of freshness, you can freeze lime wedges. Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can easily grab a frozen wedge whenever you need one.
If you’re planning to make a large batch of gin and tonic, mix the gin and tonic water just before serving. This ensures the drink remains fizzy and refreshing.
Avoid freezing the mixed gin and tonic as the tonic water will lose its carbonation and the drink will become flat. Instead, store the components separately and mix them when ready to serve.
Always use fresh ice for your gin and tonic. Stale or old ice can impart unwanted flavors to your drink. If you’re making ice ahead of time, store it in a sealed bag to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the freezer.
If you have a large gathering, consider pre-slicing your lime wedges and storing them in the fridge. This will save time and ensure you have enough garnishes for all your drinks.
For a twist, you can infuse your gin with herbs or fruits like cucumber or berries. Store the infused gin in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week.
How To Reheat Leftovers
- Unfortunately, reheating a gin and tonic is not recommended. This classic cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, as the tonic water will lose its carbonation and the lime wedge will lose its vibrant flavor if left to sit. Instead, consider making a fresh batch to fully appreciate the crisp and refreshing qualities of this drink.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Highball glass: A tall, narrow glass that is perfect for serving mixed drinks like gin and tonic, allowing the flavors to blend well.
Jigger: A small measuring tool used to ensure you pour the exact amount of gin, typically 2 ounces.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring the drink gently to mix the gin and tonic water without losing carbonation.
Ice scoop: A tool for scooping ice into the highball glass without making a mess.
Citrus knife: A small, sharp knife used to cut the lime wedge for garnish.
Cutting board: A surface to safely cut the lime wedge without damaging your countertops.
Tonic water bottle: The container from which you pour the tonic water into the highball glass.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-chill ingredients: Keep your gin and tonic water in the fridge so they are already cold when you mix your drink.
Use pre-cut garnishes: Slice your lime wedges ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Batch your drinks: If making multiple Gin and Tonics, measure and mix the gin and tonic water in a pitcher, then pour over ice.
Use a jigger: A jigger helps you measure the gin quickly and accurately, saving time and ensuring consistency.

Gin and Tonic Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Gin
- 4 oz Tonic water
- 1 Lime wedge for garnish
- 1 cup Ice
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour in the gin.
- Top with tonic water.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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