Mixology Tips to Create the Perfect Spanish G&T

Cocktails don’t always have to involve shaking or stirring, or multiple juices, syrups, and tinctures. There’s beauty to be found in some of the most simple combinations—enter the Spanish gin and tonic. Originating from the Basque region of Spain, this unique and visually appealing version of the classic G&T holds something for everyone.

The key components of a good Spanish G&T are gin, tonic, garnish, and surprisingly, temperature. Your drink should be very cold, which means the inclusion of a lot of ice, which also means a larger glass. The standard version of this is featured in a large wine glass or an oversized, globe-shaped vessel. Don’t just grab any old gin or your usual bottle of tonic; this is the time to pair your favorite style of gin with the perfect tonic—the pairing options are endless!

From there, choose two to three garnishes that enhance the existing flavors in your drink. Don’t just reach for that lime wedge; experiment with other citrus, herbs, spices, and even flowers, to build a cocktail that’s not only flavorful, but pleasing to the eye.

Confused on where to start? Check out some tips below:

If you enjoy a strong, bracing drink, packed with juniper, pine, lots of herbaceousness, and a  hint of citrus, try:

Bombay Dry gin + Schweppes Tonic + black peppercorns, lime wheels, and orange wheels.

Looking for a citrus-forward drink with a touch of savory? Try:

Beefeater + Fever Tree Naturally Light Tonic + lemon swaths, sage leaves, and coriander

Below is our favorite version of the Spanish gin and tonic, perfect for any event, casual gathering, or friendly get together:

Simple Bouquet

2 oz Hendricks Gin

3 oz Q Mixers Tonic

3 dashes rosewater

Lemon wheels, dried rose petal and black peppercorn ice cubes, lemon leaf

To make ice cubes: 

Fill ice cube tray with water only halfway. Drop 1-2 peppercorns and 1-2 dried rose petals into each compartment. Freeze. Fill remainder of each compartment with water, freeze again. This two-step system keeps the ingredients in the center of each cube.

To build the drink: 

Fill large wine glass or designated Gin and Tonic glass with 4-5 of the pre-made ice cubes, interspersing with regular ice. Place two lemon wheels and two lemon leaves along insides of the glass. Add gin, rosewater, top with tonic, and give it a few good stirs. Serve and enjoy!