To celebrate International Gin and Tonic Day (19th October 2019), the experts at Silent Pool Gin have given us a step-by-step guide to making the perfect gin and tonic.
Step 1 – Choose your vessel wisely
With the popularity of gin and tonic becoming ever more prevalent, the type of glass its served in has undergone some changes. Historically, if ordered in a bar it’s always been a traditional highball. However, in recent times it’s more likely to be served in a large goblet glass known as a Copa de Balon, which looks great and usually means your gin and tonic lasts longer. It’s wide bowl shape allows plenty of ice and various garnishes, whilst the curved shape helps to concentrate the delicate aromas of the gin, much in the same way a wine glass would, enhancing your experience when sipped.
Step 2 – The gin to tonic ratio
This is one of the most important parts of making a gin and tonic, which most people often get wrong by trying to guess measure with the naked eye. The perfect serve of gin to tonic is what makes the perfect balance of taste and strength. It should always be one measure of gin, to two parts of tonic. It’s worth investing in a spirit measure to use at home, as it’s also an easy way to keep track of consumption.
Step 3 – Ice, ice baby
The perfect gin and tonic should be served ice cold, even for a winter tipple. This means making sure that you have ice in the freezer and tonic in the fridge. A tip could be to pop your serving glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before your serve. In summer months, pop your gin in the fridge as it won’t affect the liquid and will mean its extra cold (in winter months it’s fine to keep at room temperature). Once you’ve added your gin serve, add 5-7 large cubes of ice – bigger cubes will hold their temperature for longer without melting too fast, as a result diluting your drink, therefore avoid smaller cubes or ‘shavings’. (Avoid smaller cubes or shavings as they melt quickly and dilute your drink).
Step 4 – The ultimate garnish
This is very much down to your personal taste and the type of gin you favour, as well as the botanicals in your chosen gin. Some prefer rose based and more floral gins, whilst others opt for sweet or dry notes. Whatever your tipple of choice, it’s important to consider how this will impact your garnish, whether it’s a wedge of lime or a handful of junipers. Silent Pool Gin is made using 24 botanicals including camomile, lavender, kaffir and citrus and it is recommended to be served with a twist of orange zest. For an added extra, we’ve created a selection of Silent Pool Gin mists which are a liquid garnish, designed to enhance the flavour and botanicals in your gin.
