Gin and tonic
| Cocktail | |
|---|---|
 Gin and tonic with lime wedge | |
| Type | Mixed drink |
| Base spirit | |
| Served | Poured over ice cubes |
| Standard garnish | A slice or wedge of lime or lemon |
| Standard drinkware | Highball glass or rocks glass |
| Commonly used ingredients | Gin and tonic water, according to taste |
| Preparation | In a glass filled with ice cubes, add gin and tonic. |
A gin and tonic is a highball cocktail made with gin and tonic water poured over ice. It is usually garnished with a slice or wedge of lime or lemon. The amount of gin varies according to taste, typically from 25% to 50%.[1]
In some countries, gin and tonic is marketed pre-mixed in single-serving cans.[2]
History
This cocktail was introduced by the army of the British East India Company in India.
Tonic water contains quinine, which was used to prevent malaria. Because the tonic water consumed to prevent malaria in the 18th century was extremely strong, making it taste very bitter, gin was added to make it more palatable.[3] The bitter flavor of quinine complements the green notes of gin (flavored with juniper), much as dry vermouth complements the gin in a classic martini. Tonic water sold today contains less quinine and is consequently less bitter (and is sometimes sweetened).
Although tonic water today has less medical use than formerly, gin and tonic has remained a popular drink. Because of its connection with warm climates and its refreshing effects, this cocktail is very popular during the warmer months.[4]
See also
References
- ^ Jon Bonné (2006-02-08). "Secrets to a perfect gin and tonic". MSNBC. Retrieved 2010-06-02.
- ^ "Greenall's Gin & Tonic 250ml product information". Tesco.com. Retrieved 2010-06-02.
- ^ Tonic water: sweet, bitter medicine, The Free Library. Retrieved 30 December 2009.
- ^ "The History of Gin (and Tonic)". Bbc.co.uk. Retrieved 2010-06-02.
