Looking for the ultimate way to beat the heat on a scorching day? A masterfully mixed gin cocktail offers the perfect balance of crisp citrus, complex botanicals, and ice-cold refreshment—making it the ideal companion for any sunny summer evening.
The secret to a great summer cocktail is all in the prep
Before you start mixing, remember that a top-tier cocktail is the sum of its parts, and every detail counts. In the summer heat, ice is your most vital ingredient, not just a cooling agent. The more ice you pack into the glass, the slower it melts, keeping your drink chilled for longer without watering it down. For a professional finish, always opt for large, clear ice cubes.
Your choice of glassware also makes a big difference. For summer long drinks, a wide-mouthed Copa (or balloon) glass is best, as it allows the gin’s botanicals and garnishes to truly breathe. Our comprehensive guide on the art of serving gin at home covers these technical details and serving tips in more depth.
Junimperium Summer Edition Gin & Tonic
This recipe is an absolute summer staple, highlighting bright Nordic flavors. Junimperium Summer Edition Gin was crafted specifically for warm weather, featuring a lingonberry infusion that gives the drink a fresh, slightly tart edge. For a unique twist, try pairing it with lightly salted seaside snacks—this gin complements dill and lemon beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 40 ml Junimperium Summer Edition Gin
- 120 ml high-quality Indian tonic
- Plenty of fresh ice
- Garnish: a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh dill
Preparation:
- Fill a Copa glass to the brim with ice to ensure it stays as cold as possible.
- Pour in the gin.
- Carefully pour the Fever Tree Indian Tonic down the side of the glass or over the back of a bar spoon to keep the bubbles effervescent.
- Give it one gentle stir and add the fresh herbs and citrus garnish.
Rhubarb Collins – A seasonal twist on a classic
Rhubarb is the taste of summer, and its vibrant acidity pairs perfectly with gin. The Rhubarb Collins is a floral, aromatic cocktail where signature tartness meets botanical depth. It’s a sophisticated choice for garden parties and a great alternative to a standard G&T.
Ingredients:
- 50 ml Junimperium Rhubarb Edition Gin
- 20 ml fresh lemon juice
- 10 ml sugar syrup
- Soda water to top up
- Garnish: a rhubarb ribbon or a slice of lemon
Preparation:
- Fill a tall Highball glass with ice.
- Add the gin, lemon juice, and sugar syrup.
- Stir the ingredients well.
- Top with soda water and garnish with a rhubarb ribbon for a stunning visual finish.
Sloe Gin Fizz – A burst of berry freshness
If you prefer something fruitier and a little more mellow, the Sloe Gin Fizz is an excellent choice. This cocktail uses a gin liqueur made from sloe berries. Sloe Gin is naturally rich and berry-forward, balancing sweet juniper notes with a bright, citrusy finish.
Ingredients:
- 50 ml Junimperium Sloe Gin
- 25 ml fresh lemon juice
- 15 ml sugar syrup
- Soda water
- Garnish: a lemon slice or fresh seasonal berries
Preparation:
- Combine the gin, lemon juice, and syrup in a shaker.
- Shake vigorously with ice for about 15 seconds.
- Fine-strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with soda water and garnish as you like.
You can find more inspiration for berry and fruit-forward drinks in our full selection of cocktails.
Navy Strength Gin & Aromatic Tonic – For a bolder flavor
Sometimes a balmy summer evening calls for a drink with a bit more character. Junimperium Navy Strength Gin packs a punch at 59.2% ABV, offering a powerful juniper flavor that stands up perfectly against complex mixers. This is the ideal choice for those who already know what gin is all about and are looking for a deeper, spicier experience.
Ingredients:
- 40 ml Junimperium Navy Strength Gin
- 120 ml Fever-Tree Aromatic Tonic
- Plenty of ice
- Garnish: an orange slice and a few peppercorns or allspice berries
Expert tips for the home bartender
To make your home cocktails taste like they came from the best bars in town, focus on the freshness of your ingredients. Always use freshly squeezed citrus; bottled juices lack the bright acidity and essential oils that make a drink pop.
When garnishing, try “waking up” your herbs. If you’re using thyme, rosemary, or mint, give the sprig a quick slap against the back of your hand before adding it to the glass. This releases the essential oils, making the aroma much more intense.
Since tonic usually makes up three-quarters of your drink, always choose the best tonics for gin to complement your specific bottle. Chilling is also key—keep your gin and tonic in the fridge, and if you have room, put your glassware in the freezer before serving. If you want to refine your palate even further, check out our guide on how to taste gin like a pro.
The best way to find your new favorite is to experiment. The Junimperium flavor set is designed so you can sample our entire award-winning range at home and discover the perfect combinations for your summer.