Gin is a fabulous spirit, it really is. There's just something about its easy, herbal flavor that makes it absolutely perfect to mix into cocktails around spring and summer.
Its light, refreshing and botanical notes just blend so seamlessly with just about everything I want to drink right now, and I'm sure I'm not the only one.
Well, what are you waiting for? Let's get mixing!
1. The Knickroni
Half Negroni, half Knickebein, this wild libation has campari, sweet vermouth and gin for that classic bittersweet cocktail, but it also has an egg yolk, meringue and orange bitters to bring it all home. Try this one if you love Negronis and want to make them even more extravagant!
2. Grapefruit Tarragon Gin and Tonic
Ever had grapefruit and tarragon together? The bright, bitter citrus perfectly cuts through the bittersweet licorice-like flavor, and the classic gin and tonic combo finish it off for a brilliantly colored, complex sipper.
3. Veranda Way
This unique drink includes tepache, a fermented, fizzy pineapple drink that hails from Mexico. There's a recipe included for the stuff, but if you're not keen on making it yourself, you can use a bit of dry hard cider instead.
4. Celery Tonic
Earthy, refreshing celery is a natural match for the herbal notes you find in gin. Plus, the green color makes this lemony drink just that much more exciting. Add a cucumber slice garnish if you want to bring out those fresh, cool notes.
5. Rhubarb Sour
Yeah, you know how simple, classic whiskey sours always manage to hit the spot? This gin version, featuring rhubarb syrup and an egg white (for an extra silkiness -- trust, it's delicious) will really do the trick for you, especially if you order whiskey sours on the regular and want to switch it up.
6. Cucumber Gin Lemonade
You probably knew that cucumber and gin are a match made in heaven, considering that some spirits, like Hendrick's, are actually made with the savory fruit. So what happens when you add fresh lemon juice, simple syrup and club soda to the mix? Go find out for yourself -- I highly recommend it!
7. Honey Sage Gin Fizz
A gin fizz is a great cocktail on its own, but when you throw in some honey sage-infused syrup (if you must avoid sage, you can use rosemary or basil, but the sage is brilliant), it takes this drink to a whole new level. And things only get more exciting from there: Add a smoked honey bacon rim because ... well, why wouldn't you?
8. Rhubarb and Rose Ramos Gin Fizz
An extra floral, tart pop makes this insanely fluffy yet rich New Orleans drink go down just that much smoother, as the nice bittersweet, refreshing addition modernizes the classic drink and adds a little contrast to the thick, creamy cocktail.