By Sarah Dutton

Apr 15 2020

As the warm weather approaches, you may find yourself in need of a refreshing cocktail. A gin and tonic might do the trick! 

Tonic water was originally created to treat malaria, containing quinine from the bark of the Cinchona tree. It was a very bitter medicine. Trying to make malaria prevention more palatable, British soldiers in India were the first to combine it with gin, also adding sugar and lime. Juniper berries give gin its characteristic flavor, in combination with a variety of other spices that can include coriander, orris root and angelica. Today tonic water contains less quinine, and gin and tonics are made for simple enjoyment.

With just a few ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make at home. Pile some ice cubes into a glass. Then, pour gin and tonic water into the glass, in a ratio between 1:1 to 1:3, depending on your taste. Finally, gently squeeze some lime juice over the top and garnish the glass with the lime wedge. Enjoy!

Learn more about the Cinchona tree in this video.