Juniper & Tonic Recipe

Juniper & Tonic - Directions

1. 1

   Prepare juniper infusion

   Lightly bruise the fresh juniper berries with the back of a spoon or muddler to release oils. Place the bruised juniper berries into a small bowl or glass.

2. 2

   Muddle aromatics

   Add the thyme (or rosemary) sprig to the bowl with the bruised juniper berries and gently press once or twice to release aromatics — do not pulverize. This intensifies juniper and herbal notes without becoming bitter.

3. 3

   Build the drink

   In a highball or Collins glass, add the large ice cubes. Pour 2 oz gin over the ice, then add 0.5 oz fresh lime juice and 0.25 oz simple syrup if using. Spoon in the bruised juniper berries and aromatic sprig on top of the ice (they will infuse subtly).

4. 4

   Top with tonic

   Slowly pour 4 oz chilled tonic water down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation and create a light layer. Stir gently once or twice with a bar spoon to combine — a single gentle lift-and-turn is enough.

5. 5

   Garnish and serve

   Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge perched on the rim and nestle the thyme/rosemary sprig into the drink so it rests on the ice. Optionally, drop the muddled juniper berries into the drink for extra aroma. Serve immediately with a straw or without.

6. 6

   Optional variations

   For a brighter cocktail, omit simple syrup. For a stronger juniper aroma, briefly clap the herb between your palms before garnishing or use a gin with higher juniper profile. To make a pitcher, multiply quantities by number of servings and add tonic last immediately before serving.