Classic Gin & Tonic

  My favorite cocktail is the Gin & Tonic or the G&T, if you want to sound hip. It is simple, refreshing, and easy to make. I do several variations on this classic drink but you can never go wrong with the basic version. For years, we kept our home bar stocked with Bombay Sapphire Gin because it was my father-in-law's favorite. Since he passed away we have experimented with a few other brands as well, but, the clean crisp flavor of Bombay Sapphire is still always deliciously reliable.

  For this drink, all you need is ice, 2 ounces of your favorite gin, a bottle of tonic water, and a wedge of lime. You can make it stronger or weaker depending on the amount of tonic you use. I typically use about 4 ounces. I fill my glass with ice to the top and add the gin, a squeeze of lime, and top with the tonic water. A citrus garnish is traditional but optional as is the umbrella used here.

  I serve this in various glasses depending on my mood. The balloon glass is common in Spain and Portugal but I like a traditional hi-ball glass as a general rule. I also have a collection of antique glassware, so, I enjoy changing it up for different occasions.
When I serve them poolside, I like to use these mid-century modern striped glasses that I have in multiple colors that also happen to match my striped pool towels. 

  Cheers!