Spanish Gin and Tonic

The Spanish Gin and Tonic, or 'Gin-Tonic', elevates the simple highball into a sophisticated sensory experience. It is characterized by its use of a large 'copa de balon' (balloon glass), an abundance of quality ice, premium tonic water, and carefully selected garnishes that complement the specific botanicals of the gin being used. This presentation is designed to capture and enhance the gin's aromas, making each sip a fragrant and refreshing delight.
Spanish Gin and Tonic

Preparation

Preparation time: 3 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Spanish Gin and Tonic is a modern classic cocktail, a specific style of the highball classic. It is celebrated for its aromatic presentation and is considered a sophisticated long drink suitable for many occasions.

Serving

Served very cold in a large, chilled balloon glass filled with ice, this is a long and refreshing drink. The alcohol content is moderate, making it a pleasant and easy-sipping cocktail.
Serving size
Approximately 240-300 ml / 8-10 oz
Alcohol content
Approximately 10-14% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Copa de Balon (Balloon Glass)
Glass treatment
Chilled with ice before building the drink

Backstory

This style of serving a Gin and Tonic gained immense popularity in Spain, particularly the Basque region, in the early 2000s. Spanish chefs and bartenders began using large wine glasses to better showcase the aromas of premium gins, turning the simple drink into an art form. This trend spread rapidly throughout Europe and the world, creating a culture around pairing specific gins with unique garnishes and premium tonics.
Origin
Spain, early 21st century.

Spanish Gin and Tonic

In its native Spain, this drink is simply known as a 'Gin-Tonic', but the style is specified internationally as a 'Spanish Gin and Tonic'. It is also sometimes referred to by its signature glassware, the 'Copa de Balon G&T'.
Original name
Gin-Tonic
Alternative names
  • G&T (Spanish Style)
  • Copa de Balon G&T

Characteristics overview

This cocktail is a feast for the senses, with a fragrant botanical aroma and a crisp, effervescent texture. The taste is a clean balance of the tonic's bitterness and the gin's complex character, enhanced by fresh garnishes.
Flavor
Botanical, crisp, refreshing, bitter-sweet, aromatic, citrusy, herbal
Aroma
Fragrant, juniper, botanical, citrus, herbal (dependent on garnish)
Taste balance
Balanced, bitter, slightly sweet
Aftertaste
Clean, crisp, refreshing, lingering botanicals
Fizziness
Effervescent, bubbly
Color appearance
Clear, transparent, sparkling, visually appealing with colorful garnishes
Texture
Light, crisp, bubbly
Seasonality
Highly refreshing, summery, suitable for year-round enjoyment

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor profile is led by the bitterness from the tonic and the botanical notes of the gin, with low sweetness and high carbonation. The alcohol strength is pleasantly moderate.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

You will need a quality gin, a premium chilled tonic water, and plenty of fresh ice. The most important element is the selection of fresh garnishes tailored to your gin's botanical profile.
  • Gin60 ml / 2 oz
    Choose a high-quality gin. A London Dry is classic, but citrus-forward or floral gins work exceptionally well.
  • Premium Tonic Water120 - 180 ml / 4 - 6 oz, or to top
    Use a good quality, well-carbonated tonic water. Fever-Tree or Fentimans are excellent choices. Must be chilled.
  • Assorted GarnishesVaries
    The key to the drink. Examples: grapefruit peel, juniper berries, rosemary sprig, star anise, cucumber ribbon, lime wheel. Choose garnishes that complement the botanicals in your specific gin.

Ice type

  • Large, clear ice cubes

Mixing equipments

No special mixing equipment like shakers is needed. A long bar spoon is useful for gently stirring and for pouring the tonic to preserve its fizz.
  • Bar spoon for stirring and pouring

Instructions

The process involves chilling a large balloon glass, adding complementary garnishes, gin, and ice, then gently topping with premium tonic water to preserve effervescence. A single, gentle stir is all that's needed before serving.
1. Take a large Copa de Balon (balloon glass) and fill it completely to the brim with large, high-quality ice cubes.
2. Swirl the ice in the glass for about 20 seconds to thoroughly chill the glass walls, then pour out any melted water that has collected at the bottom.
3. Add your chosen garnishes to the glass. Gently press or twist them to help release their essential oils and aromas.
4. Pour 2 oz (60 ml) of your chosen gin over the ice and garnishes.
5. Open a fresh, chilled bottle of premium tonic water. Tilt the glass and pour the tonic slowly down a twisted bar spoon or the inside wall of the glass to maintain maximum carbonation.
6. Give the drink one single, gentle stir from the bottom up with the bar spoon to combine the ingredients without losing fizz. Serve immediately.

Garnishing

Garnishing is the most creative part; don't just use a single wedge. Use a combination of citrus peels, herbs, spices, or berries to enhance the gin's specific aromas and flavors.
  • Botanical pairing: Choose 2-3 garnishes that match your gin, such as a long grapefruit peel, a few juniper berries, and a fresh sprig of rosemary, and place them directly in the glass.

Dietary Information

This cocktail is naturally free from common allergens like dairy, eggs, nuts, soy, and gluten. It is suitable for both vegan and vegetarian diets.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

The nutritional content mainly comes from the tonic water's sugar. The cocktail contains around 170 calories and 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving, most of which is sugar.
Calories
Averagely 170 kcal / 711 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 15 grams
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 14 grams
Sugar level

Occasions

This drink is perfect as a pre-dinner aperitif, a refreshing choice for summer parties, or a stylish option for happy hour. Its sophisticated presentation makes it ideal for any social gathering where a touch of elegance is desired.
  • Aperitif
  • Summer party
  • Happy hour
  • Social gathering

Pairing suggestions

The Spanish Gin and Tonic pairs beautifully with a variety of light and savory appetizers, especially Spanish tapas. Its crisp, botanical nature cuts through the richness of cured meats and complements the saltiness of olives and seafood, making it an ideal aperitif drink.
  • Spanish tapas
  • Marinated olives and almonds
  • Cured meats like Jamón Ibérico or Chorizo
  • Light seafood dishes like grilled prawns or ceviche

Spanish Gin and Tonic: An Aromatic Experience

The Spanish Gin and Tonic is more than just a drink; it's a ritual and a statement. By focusing on a large balloon glass, abundant ice, premium ingredients, and tailored garnishes, it transforms the humble G&T into an aromatic and visually captivating experience. Its refreshing and balanced profile makes it incredibly versatile, perfect for a sunny afternoon, a pre-dinner drink, or a stylish party cocktail. The beauty of this drink lies in its customizability, inviting you to explore different gins and find your perfect botanical pairing.