Make these four innovative Gin and Tonic cocktails to explore different flavours

(L) Nalla Neram, (R) Mediterranean G&T

The G&T (Gin and Tonic) is an iconic cocktail loved by millions across the globe. There is an old adage that says if it's not broken why fix it, but thankfully it does not apply to the world of mixology. While there are some enthusiasts who stick to the original, bartenders and patrons have been experimenting with flavours, techniques, and ingredients to elevate this classic.

Every year, National Gin and Tonic Day is observed on April 9 but why limit yourself to celebrating the delicious cocktail on just one day when you can make it any time of the year.

We got mixologists to share some of their most refreshing, yet easy-to-make gin and tonic recipes with an exciting twist. These innovative recipes highlight the versatility of the gin and tonic, proving that with thoughtful ingredients and creative techniques, this beloved drink can be transformed into an extraordinary indulgence. So, ditch the ordinary and prepare to craft some truly elevated gin and tonics to celebrate in style.

Popcorn Gin and Tonic

Popcorn in a cocktail? Why not! This whimsical cocktail brings together the crisp botanicals of gin and the buttery sweetness of popcorn syrup. "We've embraced the inherent versatility of a gin and tonic to create expressions that are equal parts fun and thoughtful," says Revanth Buga, assistant beverage manager at Geist Brewing Co.

Ingredients:
Gin 60 ml
Popcorn Syrup 60 ml
Tonic water

Method:
1. Fill a goblet or highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the gin and popcorn syrup.
3. Stir gently to mix the flavours.
4. Top with tonic water,
5. Optional garnish with a few popcorn kernels on the side.

Mediterranean G&T

The Mediterranean is synonymous with zesty, refreshing, and crisp flavours, which Smoke House Deli offers in a light cocktail. "The gin cocktail is our refreshing take on the classic, where the zest of Limoncello meets the elegance of botanical gin. Finished with a hint of rosemary and grapefruit, it's light, flavourful and crisp offering respite from the summer heat", says Vijay Prakash, mixologist at Impresario Entertainment and Hospitality PVT LTD.

Ingredients
Any Mediterranean-style gin 45 ml
Limoncello 15 ml
Mediterranean tonic water 150 ml
Ice cubes
Fresh rosemary
Slice of grapefruit

Method
1. Begin by filling a highball or balloon glass with crystal-clear ice cubes.
2. Pour in the mediterranean-style gin, followed by a dash of zesty Limoncello.
3. Top with chilled mediterranean tonic water and garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary and a slice of grapefruit. Serve it chilled!

Nalla Neram

"A golden hour in a glass," poses Pranav Mody, mixologist at The Tanjore Tiffin Room, NESCO. This cocktail blends house-infused Green Tea Kahwa with smooth gin, fresh basil, and a hint of citrusy warmth from orange crisps. Finished with Indian tonic, it's a refreshing yet aromatic sip that balances earthy, herbal, and zesty notes, perfect for a moment of indulgence.

Ingredients
House-infused Kahwa Gin (see infusion method below) 60 ml
Fresh Basil Leaves 4-5 no
Dehydrated orange slice 1
Indian tonic water 100 ml
Ice cubes
For the Kahwa Infusion
Dry Gin 500 ml
Kashmiri Kahwa tea leaves (green tea with saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and almonds) 2 tbsp
Honey (optional for a slightly sweet touch) 1 tbsp

Method:

For infusion
1. Add the Kahwa tea leaves to the gin and let it infuse for 12-24 hours at room temperature.
2. Strain the gin through a fine mesh or cheesecloth.
3. Store in a clean bottle.

Preparing the cocktail
1. Gently muddle fresh basil leaves in a shaker to release their aroma.
2. Add ice cubes and 60 ml infused Kahwa gin.
3. Stir well to chill the mixture.
4. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top up with 100ml Indian tonic water.
6. Garnish with a dehydrated orange slice and a fresh basil leaf.
7. Serve in a highball glass or a coupe for a more elegant presentation.

Agave G&T

With the rising popularity of agave, it was only a matter of time until someone added it to a gin and tonic. "The Agave G&T brings together smoky-sweet agave, crisp cucumber, and botanical gin in a light and layered serve. The agave doesn't overpower; instead, it amplifies the aromatics, letting each note shine," shares Suraj Gupta, co-founder of Fiori.

Ingredients
Botanical gin 60 ml
Tonic water 150 ml
Homemade agave syrup 20 ml
Cucumber wedges 2 no
Fresh basil leaves
Ice cubes
For the Agave syrup:
Agave nectar 2 parts
Warm water 1 part

Method:

To prepare syrup:
1. Combine agave nectar and warm water. Stir until smooth.
2. Store in a clean, refrigerated bottle.
To prepare cocktail:
1. Lightly muddle fresh basil and cucumber in a shaker.
2. Add ice, gin, and agave syrup. Stir to chill.
3. Strain into a glass over fresh ice.
4. Top with tonic water.
5. Garnish with a basil leaf and cucumber slice.
6. Serve in a highball glass with minimal garnish for a clean, refreshing look.