Gin Mixing Mastery: Top 10 Combinations to Try in Australia
With its unique blend of botanicals, gin is a spirit that's as versatile as it is intriguing. It's a chameleon in the world of spirits, effortlessly adapting to many mixers and creating a symphony of flavours. Whether you're a classic gin and tonic fan or adventurous enough to pair gin with coffee, there's a gin combination out there for everyone.
The beauty of gin lies in its complexity. Each gin has a unique profile, with juniper berries being the common denominator. This complexity makes it a fantastic base for a wide range of cocktails. The possibilities of what to mix with gin are endless, from the refreshing gin and cucumber to the tropical gin and pineapple juice.
The Popularity of Gin in Australia
Down under, gin has been enjoying a surge in popularity. Australians are not just drinking gin; they're celebrating it. The country has seen a gin renaissance, with local distilleries crafting some of the world's best gins.
The Australian gin scene is as diverse as the country itself. From the traditional London Dry style to gins infused with native Australian botanicals, there's a gin for every palate. The best mixers for gin are just as varied. Australians find new and exciting ways to enjoy their gin, whether it's the classic tonic water, the sweet lemonade, or the spicy ginger ale.
What you can mix with gin has a different answer in every corner of Australia. In bustling cities, gin is mixed with elderflower tonic, while gin and grapefruit juice are the drink of choice in the coastal areas.
So, whether you're a gin aficionado or a curious beginner, remember that the best way to drink gin is the way you enjoy it the most. After all, the beauty of gin lies in its versatility. So experiment, mix, and discover what gin mixes well with for you.
Local Gin Distilleries in Australia
Australia's gin scene is as vibrant and diverse. Local distilleries are crafting some of the world's best gins, each with a unique character and flavour profile. Let's take a tour of some of these gin-making gems.
Four Pillars Gin - Yarra Valley, Victoria
Four Pillars Gin, nestled in the heart of Victoria's Yarra Valley, is a beacon of craft gin in Australia. Their gins are distilled in copper stills and are known for their balance and sophistication. The botanicals used are a mix of local and international ingredients, creating a gin that's as global as it is Australian. Try their signature Rare Dry Gin with a classic tonic water for a refreshing gin and tonic.
Archie Rose Distilling Co. - Sydney, New South Wales
Archie Rose Distilling Co. is located in Sydney and is a testament to the city's vibrant spirit. Their gins are crafted with traditional and native Australian botanicals, resulting in a unique flavour profile. Their Signature Dry Gin is a must-try, and it mixes well with various juices for a fruity gin cocktail.
Sullivans Cove Distillery - Hobart, Tasmania
Sullivans Cove Distillery in Hobart, Tasmania, may be known for its world-class whisky, but its gin is equally impressive. Their gin is made in small batches using a blend of local and exotic botanicals. Try mixing their gin with a spicy ginger ale for a warming gin cocktail.
78 Degrees Distillery - Adelaide Hills, South Australia
78 Degrees Distillery is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and local produce. Their gins are crafted with a mix of traditional and native botanicals, resulting in a gin that's uniquely Australian. Their Green Ant Gin, with its citrusy notes, pairs well with soda water for a light and refreshing gin cocktail.
The West Winds Gin - Margaret River, Western Australia
The West Winds Gin, located in Margaret River, Western Australia, is a distillery as adventurous as it is innovative. Their gins are made using a blend of traditional and uniquely Australian botanicals. Try their Sabre Gin with a splash of lemonade for a sweet twist on a gin cocktail.
These local distilleries are just a snapshot of Australia's thriving gin scene. Each distillery offers a unique take on this versatile spirit, providing endless possibilities for what to mix with gin.
The Cannabis Co's Gin Selection
At The Cannabis Co, we're passionate about creating unique, high-quality gin products that push the boundaries of traditional distilling. Our collection is a testament to our commitment to innovation and quality. Let's explore some of our standout offerings.
High Seas Navy Strength Gin
Our High Seas Navy Strength Gin is a perfect choice for those who enjoy a stronger spirit. With a robust 58% alcohol content, this gin is designed to pack a punch. Inspired by the tradition of 'Navy Strength' spirits, metaphorically speaking, this gin ensures your 'cannons' always fire. It's a gin that stands up to any storm, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a high-stakes adventure on the high seas of flavour. Whether you're sipping it neat or mixing it into a potent cocktail, our High Seas Navy Strength Gin is sure to make a splash.
The Myrcene Hemp Gin
Our Myrcene Hemp Gin is a world-first, featuring the fragrant myrcene, a terpene found in cannabis and other plants like hops and thyme. This gin offers a unique blend of flavours, with earthy notes of juniper and citrus, and a hint of hops. It's a perfect choice for those looking for a gin that's a little out of the ordinary.
The Jilungin Dreaming Hemp Gin
The Jilungin Dreaming Hemp Gin is a celebration of Australian botanicals. It's crafted with Jilungin, a traditional bush tucker used by Indigenous Australians for its calming properties. This gin offers a complex flavour profile with a refreshing finish, making it a great choice for sipping or mixing in cocktails.
The History of Gin and Its Mixers
Gin, the spirit we've come to love for its versatility and unique flavour profile, has a rich and storied history. Originating in the Middle Ages, gin was initially used as a herbal medicine. However, in the 17th century in Holland, gin started to resemble the spirit we know today. Known as genever, this early form of gin was often mixed with beer or wine, a far cry from the gin and tonic we're familiar with.
The gin we know and love today, often referred to as London Dry Gin, came into being in the 19th century. With its strong juniper flavour and dry finish, this gin style quickly became popular and is still the most common type of gin globally. This gin style mixes well with a variety of mixers, from the classic tonic water to the more adventurous elderflower tonic or grapefruit juice.
Evolution of Gin Mixers
The history of gin mixers is just as fascinating as the spirit itself. The most iconic gin mixer, tonic water, has its roots in colonial India, where quinine (an ingredient in tonic water) was used to prevent malaria. The bitter quinine was mixed with gin to make it more palatable; thus, the gin and tonic were born.
Over the years, the world of gin mixers has expanded dramatically. From the sweet tang of lemonade to the refreshing crispness of cucumber, the possibilities of what to mix gin with are endless. In recent years, there's been a trend towards using more unusual mixers. For instance, coffee and gin seem unlikely, but the two can create a surprisingly delightful cocktail.
Whether you're a purist who believes the best mixer for gin is tonic water or an adventurer who loves experimenting with different gin mixes, there's no denying that the world of gin mixers is as diverse and exciting as the spirit itself.
The Art of Mixing Gin: An Overview
Mixing gin is an art form that combines creativity, science, and a dash of adventure. The first step in mastering this art is understanding the gin you're working with. Each gin has its unique flavour profile, from the juniper-heavy London Dry Gins to the more floral and citrusy New Western Gins. Knowing your gin's flavour profile can guide you in choosing the best mixers for gin.
Next, consider your mixers. The world of gin mixers is vast and varied, offering many flavours to complement your gin. From the classic tonic water to the unconventional coffee, the question of what to mix with gin has countless answers. The key is to choose a mixer that complements and enhances the gin's flavours rather than overpowering them.
The Importance of Proportions
When it comes to mixing gin, proportions are everything. The right balance can elevate your gin cocktail, while the wrong one can leave you with a drink that needs to be stronger, weaker, or just plain unpalatable.
For instance, a classic gin and tonic typically follow a 1:2 ratio of gin to tonic. However, these proportions can be adjusted to taste. If you're mixing gin with juice or soda, try a 1:3 ratio to let the sweetness of the mixer shine without overpowering the gin.
Remember, the goal is to create a harmonious blend where the gin and the mixer enhance each other. So, always keep proportions in mind, whether you're mixing gin with tonic, juice, or even coffee. After all, the best way to drink gin is the way that tastes best to you!
Top 10 Gin Mixers to Try in Australia
Tonic Water: The Classic Gin Mixer
Tonic water is the quintessential partner for gin. Thanks to the quinine, its balance of bitter and sweet enhances the gin's botanicals, creating a refreshing cocktail that's a staple in Australian bars. Try this simple recipe: Mix 2 oz gin with 4 oz tonic water. Add a squeeze of lime and garnish with a lime wheel.
Lemonade: A Sweet Twist
For those with a sweet tooth, lemonade is a fantastic mixer for gin. The sweetness of the lemonade complements the gin's botanicals, while the citrus adds a refreshing tang. Perfect for a hot Australian summer day, try this: Mix 2 oz of gin with 4 oz of lemonade. Add a splash of soda water and garnish with a lemon slice.
Ginger Ale: A Spicy Companion
If you're looking for a mixer with a bit of a kick, ginger ale is your answer. The spiciness of the ginger ale adds a unique twist to the gin, creating a cocktail with a warming aftertaste. Try this on a chilly Australian winter night: Mix 2 oz gin with 4 oz ginger ale. Add a squeeze of lime and garnish with a lime wheel.
Cucumber: A Fresh Take
Cucumber and gin may seem like an unusual pairing, but the two go together surprisingly well. The freshness of the cucumber enhances the botanicals in the gin, creating a light and refreshing cocktail. Try this: Muddle a few slices of cucumber in a glass, add 2 oz of gin and top with tonic water. Garnish with a cucumber slice.
Grapefruit Juice: A Citrusy Delight
Try mixing it with grapefruit juice for a citrusy twist on your gin. The tartness of the grapefruit juice complements the gin's botanicals, creating a refreshing and complex cocktail. Try this: Mix 2 oz of gin with 4 oz of grapefruit juice. Add a splash of soda water and garnish with a grapefruit slice.
Elderflower Tonic: A Floral Fusion
Elderflower tonic is a floral, sweet mixer that pairs beautifully with gin. The floral notes of the elderflower enhance the botanicals in the gin, creating a sweet and complex cocktail. Try this: Mix 2 oz of gin with 4 oz of elderflower tonic. Add a squeeze of lemon and garnish with a lemon wheel.
Soda Water: The Light Mixer
If you're looking for a light, refreshing mixer for your gin, soda water is the way to go. The bubbles in the soda water add a refreshing fizz to the gin. Try this: Mix 2 oz gin with 4 oz soda water. Add a squeeze of lime and garnish with a lime wheel.
Coffee: An Unusual Pairing
Coffee and gin may seem unlikely, but the two can create a surprisingly delightful cocktail. The bitterness of the coffee complements the botanicals in the gin. Try this unique cocktail:
- Mix 1 oz of gin with 1 oz of cold brew coffee.
- Add 1 oz of simple syrup and shake with ice.
- Strain into a glass and garnish with coffee beans.
Tomato Juice: A Savoury Surprise
Mix gin with tomato juice for a savoury twist. The flavour of the tomato juice complements the botanicals in the gin, creating a unique and delicious cocktail. Try this: Mix 2 oz gin with 4 oz tomato juice. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce, a squeeze of lemon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and garnish with a celery stalk.
Pineapple Juice: A Tropical Treat
The sweetness of the pineapple juice complements the botanicals in the gin, creating a sweet and tropical cocktail. Try this: Mix 2 oz of gin with 4 oz of pineapple juice. Add a splash of soda water and garnish with a pineapple slice.
Expert Tips on Mixing Gin
The first step in creating a perfect gin cocktail is choosing the proper gin. Each gin has its unique flavour profile; the key is selecting a gin that complements your chosen mixer. For instance, a juniper-heavy London Dry Gin pairs well with a bitter mixer like tonic water, while a floral gin might pair better with a sweet mixer like elderflower tonic. Remember, the best gin is the one that tastes best to you!
Balancing Flavours
Balancing flavours is an essential part of mixing gin. The goal is to create a harmonious blend where the gin and the mixer enhance each other. For instance, if you're mixing gin with a sweet mixer like lemonade, choose a strong juniper flavour to balance out the sweetness. Similarly, a citrusy gin can add a refreshing twist if you're mixing gin with a bitter mixer like tonic water.
Experimenting with Garnishes
Garnishes are more than just a pretty addition to your gin cocktail. They can enhance the flavours of your gin and mixer, adding an extra layer of complexity to your cocktail. For instance, a sprig of rosemary can add a refreshing piney note to a gin and tonic, while a slice of grapefruit can add a tart twist to a gin and elderflower tonic. Feel free to get creative with your garnishes - the sky's the limit!
Conclusion
We've journeyed through the fascinating world of gin, exploring its rich history, the art of mixing it, and the vast array of mixers that can transform it into a delightful cocktail. From the classic gin and tonic to the unusual gin and coffee, we've seen how versatile this spirit truly is.
The beauty of gin lies in its versatility and the endless possibilities it offers. So, feel free to experiment with different mixers. Whether you prefer classic mixers or want to try something new and unusual, the perfect gin cocktail is out there waiting for you to discover. Remember, the best way to drink gin is the way that tastes best to you.
