Juniper & Tonic Recipe

Juniper & Tonic - Preparation

1. 1

   Chill glass and tonic

   Place a highball or Collins glass in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare ingredients. Keep the tonic water chilled in the refrigerator until ready to build the drink.

2. 2

   Lightly crush juniper

   Place 3 juniper berries on a small cutting board or in the palm of your hand. Using the back of a spoon or a muddler, press lightly just enough to release aromatic oils—do not pulverize. This will add a fresh juniper aroma that complements the gin.

3. 3

   Build the cocktail

   Discard the ice water from the chilled glass if used and add large ice cubes (about 4–6 large cubes or one large sphere). Pour 2 oz of gin over the ice, then add the lightly crushed juniper berries to the glass.

4. 4

   Add lime and sweetener

   Add 1/2 oz fresh lime juice to the glass. If you prefer a slightly rounder, less dry G&T, add 1/4 oz simple syrup. Stir gently once to combine the gin, lime and juniper aromas with the ice.

5. 5

   Top with tonic

   Carefully pour 4 oz chilled tonic water down the back of a bar spoon (or pour slowly) onto the drink to preserve carbonation and create a clean layer. Pour in a single motion while holding the spoon near the ice to minimize agitation.

6. 6

   Finish and garnish

   Give the drink one very gentle stir (1–2 rotations) to integrate tonic without losing too much fizz. Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge on the rim and tuck a sprig of fresh rosemary into the glass (optional). Optionally float the crushed juniper berries on top so they release aroma as you sip.

7. 7

   Serve

   Serve immediately while the tonic is still effervescent. Provide a straw or stirrer if desired. Sip and enjoy the juniper-forward aromatic profile balanced by bright lime and tonic bitterness.