How to make the perfect gin and tonic for International Gin and Tonic Day
www.independent.co.uk
The question of how best to serve a gin and tonic became a hot topic of conversation when an expert controversially claimed that the popular drink should be served without a lemon or lime garnish, contrary to what many may have been led to believe.
Speaking to Business Insider, Bombay Sapphire senior ambassador Sam Carter stated that in his opinion, the perfect gin and tonic includes ginger, a mint sprig and a generous amount of ice, all served in a balloon glass.
The Independent spoke to three more experts to ascertain whether they hold the same beliefs as Mr Carter.
As one may expect, they each held individual views concerning how to perfect the beloved drink.
In celebration of International Gin and Tonic Day on Saturday 19 October, here’s how to make the perfect gin and tonic according to the experts, from their preferred garnish to the correct ratio of gin to tonic:
Garnish
Mr Carter claimed that adding a citrus-based garnish does little to the flavour of a gin and tonic.
However, none of the other experts concurred with this point of view.
“A thickly cut lemon slice works well to bring out the citrus notes already present in the gin without overpowering the other flavours,” explained Tony Conigliaro, drinks expert for Schweppes.
“Personally, I’m not a fan of ginger as the flavour gets in the way of the tonic, but if you are looking for something more adventurous, I love a cheeky sprig of mint to give a summer freshness to your drink.”
Adam Ellesmere, “minister of fun” at Sipsmith, agreed that adding a wedge of lime can enhance a gin and tonic’s flavour, stating that it helps to “release the citrusy zestiness” of the beverage.
On the other hand, Craig Harper, on-trade manager at Fever-Tree, believes that using the peel or the skin of a citrus fruit is more effective than a wedge or a thin slice.
“This enhances the flavour given by the chosen citrus fruit, due to the concentrated oils which can be found in the skin,” he said.
He went on to explain that the choice of garnish should depend on the type of gin used in the drink.
Ice
Mr Carter recommended using lots of ice when making a gin and tonic, as the ice supposedly melts at a slower rate when there’s more of it in the glass and thus keeps the drink nice and cold. Mr Ellesmere agreed with this assessment.
perfect gin and tonic By: www.independent.co.uk