Food Scientist Reveals the ‘Perfect’ Gin and Tonic Recipe — And It’s Way More Complex Than You May Think

A food scientist shares her recipe for the ideal gin and tonic, which outlines what ice to use, the best garnishes and the perfect mixer-to-spirit ratio. (Photo: Pixabay)

In celebration of World Gin Day on June 10, Natalie Alibrandi, a U.K. food scientist and industry consultant, revealed to Daily Mail what she believes is the perfect recipe for a gin and tonic. Detailed in the shockingly complex instructions for what is usually a quick two-ingredient serve are what shaped ice and cup to use, the ideal tonic water carbonation level and the best garnishes (spoiler, it’s not limes).

How to Make The Best Gin and Tonic, According to a Food Scientist

A great cocktail starts with a great vessel. According to Daily Mail reporting, Alibrandi said the ideal glass for a gin and tonic is the Copa de Balon, which is designed to hold a sizable quantity of ice while keeping warm hands away from the cup. Alibrandi’s study, commissioned by Quintessential Brands, discovered that the balloon shape of the glass also helps contain botanical aromas for a more aromatic experience.

Then, Alibrandi emphasized the importance of using crescent-shaped ice cubes in a gin and tonic, which melt slowly and prevent dilution. As for tonic water, Alibrandi shared with Daily Mail that there’s a specific carbonation level to look out for to ensure you’re using a mixer with the utmost quality.

“A tonic water with higher carbonation is best, so check the label,” she said. “A carbonation level of 4.5 CO₂ is ideal, as lower carbonation will have lower CO2 retention and lose desired bubbles and mouthfeel over time.”

“By opting for tonic water with a carbonation level of 4.5 it will have prolonged stability, allowing you to enjoy your G&T for longer,” Alibrandi added, per the report.

Furthermore, Alibrandi advised using single-serve cans or glass bottles of tonic water for maximum carbonation retention.

Her recipe also included precise measurements, with a recommended tonic-to-gin ratio of 3:1. When crafting the drink, be sure to pour your tonic in slowly and only stir about two times, or your cocktail may not be fizzy enough. And similar to how one would make a martini — a drink in which temperature is a key feature — Alibrandi recommended using gin that has been kept in a freezer.

Additionally, Alibrandi highlighted the significance of choosing the right garnish, suggesting lemongrass, dried mango and a sprig of pine in place of the ever-iconic slices of lime.

Once you’ve assembled your gin and tonic, it was recommended to try your best to drink it within 30 minutes, otherwise, the ice begins to melt and carbonation is lost. Still, this doesn’t mean consuming your cocktail too fast — or on an empty stomach, as Alibrandi detailed responsible drinking practices.

“A neutral palette is best to enjoy the complex flavors of a G&T and it should always be drunk responsibly for optimal enjoyment,” she said, per the report. “You shouldn’t drink on an empty stomach due to the speed at which it passes through your stomach and enters the small intestine and be careful not to drink it too quickly.”

She also recommended sipping directly from the glass rather than using a straw, as it enhances the aroma and overall enjoyment of the cocktail.

Finally, to really elevate your gin drink, consider pairing it with certain foods. According to Alibrandi, floral or fruity gin goes well with citrus-flavored foods and desserts, spiced gin pairs well with savory dishes as they improve herbal and citrus notes and London dry gin is best enjoyed alongside smoky cheeses.

The Final Recipe

According to Daily Mail, the following is a concise breakdown of Alibrandi’s perfect gin and tonic recipe.

• Glass capacity: 500 – 800 ml
• Glass stem length: 9.5 – 12.5 cm
• Glass rim diameter: 75 – 95 mm
• Ice: 0.5 x 1.13 x 1.5 inches (crescent-shaped)
• Tonic carbonation: 4.5 CO₂
• Tonic-to-gin ratio: 3:1
• Gin temperature: -18ºC
• Glass temperature: -4ºC
• Tonic water temperature: 5ºC
• Number of stirs: No more than two

Read next:

Celebrate World Gin Day With These 10 Top Gins From Around the World

The 5 Best Gins We Tasted in May 2023

The Perfect Father’s Day Gift? Ryan Reynolds’ Aviation Gin Unveils DIY ‘Vasectomy Kit’

Here at Gin Raiders, we do more than write about current events in gin and spirits. We are the only media property reviewing gins and aggregating the scores and reviews of other significant voices in the gin world in one place. If you’re interested in getting a shot of gin in your morning email, sign up for our Deal of the Day newsletter.