Master the perfect Gin & Tonic This Spring

Few cocktails are as timeless or as refreshingly simple as the Gin & Tonic. Yet within its apparent simplicity lies endless opportunity for refinement. As spring arrives, bringing with it fresh produce and lighter, longer days, it’s the perfect time to reimagine this classic serve.  

With the right gin, tonic, garnish, and glassware, you can transform an everyday G&T into a showcase of flavour and style. 

Choosing the Right Gin 

A Gin & Tonic begins with the gin itself. Opting for a premium gin ensures the botanicals truly shine through the tonic. 

• King Island Coastal Gin — A modern expression of gin produced using botanicals including juniper, coriander, angelica, orris, cassia, native oregano, saltbush and waxflower along with foraged King Island bull kelp and rock salt. Coastal Gin lends itself to shine with citrus-led tonics and coastal garnishes like lemon, lime, or even sea herbs. 

• Gidley Dry Gin — A London-dry style that’s beautifully balanced and juniper-forward. This gin pairs seamlessly with classic Indian tonics, elevated by citrus and herb garnishes. 

The Art of the Tonic 

Not all tonics are created equal. The wrong choice can overwhelm the gin, while the right one enhances its natural complexity. 

• Classic Indian Tonic: Best for traditional dry gins, highlighting juniper and spice. 

• Mediterranean Tonic: Softer, slightly herbaceous — excellent with floral or coastal gins. 

• Light or Low-Sugar Tonic: Lets the gin’s botanicals take centre stage while keeping the serve bright and crisp. 

Pro tip: Always chill your tonic well and pour gently to preserve its effervescence. 

Garnishes That Make a Difference 

A garnish should do more than decorate — it should accentuate flavour. For spring, think fresh, vibrant, and aromatic: 

• Citrus wheels: Lemon, lime, grapefruit for brightness. 

• Seasonal herbs: Thyme, rosemary, basil, or mint for an aromatic lift. 

• Spring twists: Edible flowers, cucumber ribbons, or even a slice of fresh pear for something unexpected. 

The Perfect Serve 

1. Fill a balloon glass with large cubes of ice. 

2. Add 50ml of gin. 

3. Gently pour over 150ml of tonic water. 

4. Stir lightly to combine. 

5. Finish with your chosen garnish. 

Why Spring Is the Best Time for a G&T 

As the weather warms, the Gin & Tonic becomes the ultimate refreshment — crisp, colourful, and endlessly adaptable. Spring’s abundance of herbs, citrus, and edible flowers provides the perfect palette to experiment and personalise your serve. It’s more than a drink; it’s a celebration of the season itself. 

The Final Sip 

Mastering the Gin & Tonic this spring is about attention to detail — the right gin, the right tonic, and a garnish that elevates rather than overpowers. With King Island Distillery gins at the heart of your glass, you’ll discover that even a classic can feel fresh, exciting, and distinctly seasonal. 

Raise a glass to spring — and to the art of the perfect G&T. 

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