Gin and Juice
The Gin and Juice is a straightforward and highly customizable drink, combining the botanical notes of gin with the sweetness and tang of fruit juice. While orange juice is a common choice, virtually any juice can be used, making it a versatile classic. Its fame was cemented by Snoop Dogg's 1994 hit song of the same name, turning a simple mix into a cultural icon. It remains a perfect party drink, celebrated for being both easy to make and easy to drink.
Preparation
Preparation time: 2 minutes
Preparation time
Difficulty
Drink Classification
The Gin and Juice is a simple mixed drink, best categorized as a highball. It falls into the broader category of cocktails but is defined by its straightforward two-part composition served in a tall glass over ice.
Serving
Serve this refreshingly cold drink in a tall highball glass filled with ice. The alcohol content is moderate, making it a pleasant and easy-sipping beverage.
Serving size
240-300 ml / 8-10 oz
Alcohol content
Approximately 10-15% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Highball
Glass treatment
None
Backstory
While the practice of mixing gin with fruit juice has existed for many decades, the drink's specific name and immense popularity are directly tied to the 1994 song "Gin and Juice" by American rapper Snoop Dogg. The song depicted a laid-back party lifestyle, and the drink became an instant symbol of that vibe. Prior to the song, it was simply a mixed drink without a globally recognized name.
Origin
United States, popularized globally in the mid-1990s following the release of the eponymous song.
Gin and Juice
The drink is universally known as "Gin and Juice," a name popularized by the famous hip-hop song. The ampersand version, "Gin & Juice," is a common stylistic variation.
Original name
Gin and Juice
Alternative name
Gin & Juice
Characteristics overview
This drink offers a vibrant, fruity aroma and flavor, underscored by the botanical notes of juniper from the gin. Its smooth texture and refreshing character make it an excellent choice for any season, particularly summer.
Flavor
Fruity, botanical, sweet, citrusy
Aroma
Fruity, juniper, citrus
Taste balance
Sweet, slightly sour, botanical
Aftertaste
Clean, short, fruity
Fizziness
Still
Color appearance
Varies with juice (e.g., orange, pale yellow, pink), translucent
Texture
Smooth, liquid
Seasonality
Refreshing, summery, all-season
Flavor intensity & Experience
The flavor profile is dominated by the fruitiness of the juice, balanced by a moderate alcohol presence and a subtle botanical bitterness from the gin. It is a straightforward, non-carbonated, and easy-drinking cocktail.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation
Ingredients
This cocktail is famously simple, requiring only two core ingredients: gin and your favorite fruit juice. The classic ratio is typically one part gin to two parts juice.
- Gin60 ml / 2 ozA London Dry Gin is classic, but any preferred gin will work well.
- Fruit Juice120 ml / 4 ozOrange juice is common, but grapefruit, pineapple, or cranberry juice are also excellent choices. Freshly squeezed is recommended.
Ice type
- Cubed
Mixing equipments
No special equipment is required beyond a jigger for measuring and a spoon for a quick stir. This drink is built directly in the serving glass.
- Jigger or measuring cup for accurate pouring.
- Bar spoon for stirring.
Instructions
The preparation is incredibly simple: just build the ingredients over ice directly in a highball glass, give it a brief stir, and garnish.
1. Fill a highball glass to the top with ice cubes.
2. Pour the gin over the ice.
3. Top with your chosen fruit juice.
4. Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients.
5. Garnish with a citrus wedge or slice, if desired.
Garnishing
A simple garnish, such as a slice or wedge of citrus fruit, adds a fresh aromatic touch and visual appeal to the drink.
- Citrus Wedge or Slice: A wedge or slice of the fruit corresponding to the juice (e.g., an orange slice for orange juice).
Dietary Information
This drink is naturally free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, nuts, and soy. Assuming a distilled gin is used, it is also gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly
Nutrition information
Calorie and sugar content primarily come from the fruit juice and can vary significantly based on the type and sweetness of the juice used.
Calories
Averagely 180-220 kcal / 753-920 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 15-20 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 14-18 g
Sugar level
Occasions
This is a quintessential casual drink, perfectly suited for parties, laid-back social gatherings, and brunches. Its refreshing quality also makes it an excellent choice for sipping on a warm summer day.
- Party
- Casual Gathering
- Brunch
- Summer Day
Pairing suggestions
Its fruity and refreshing nature makes it a versatile partner for a wide range of foods. It pairs excellently with salty snacks and light party appetizers, and it is also a classic choice for a brunch cocktail, complementing both sweet and savory dishes.
- Salty Snacks (e.g., pretzels, chips)
- Light Appetizers
- Brunch Foods (e.g., quiche, eggs benedict)
- Grilled Chicken or Fish
Gin and Juice: The Laid-Back Classic
The Gin and Juice is an iconic, simple highball cocktail that skyrocketed to fame thanks to Snoop Dogg. Consisting of just gin and a fruit juice of choice, it's incredibly easy to make and customize to personal taste. Best served cold in a tall glass, it's the ultimate laid-back drink for casual parties, gatherings, or simply relaxing at home. Its refreshing and fruity profile makes it a timeless and accessible choice for any occasion.