We decided to focus on combinations with tonics because they are inextricably linked to the preparation of cocktails, available, and allow you to easily experiment with flavors without going broke on the home bar.

Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is the gin tonic, which is now the best-selling cocktail in establishments and is forcing a boom in “juniper vodka” production. Apart from that, however, flavored tonics are also excellent with other strong alcohols. Plant extracts in the composition, and as a consequence, the flavors of tonics are suitable for rum, liqueurs and cognac, etc.

How to achieve balance in a cocktail?

The importance of harmony in cocktails is hard to overestimate, and much has been said and written about it. I believe there is a different balance of taste for each person, as everyone does not have equally developed taste buds, and preferences can be different. Some like it sour, some like something sweeter, and for some, strength is important.

As a rule, the balance is built around sweet and sour or bittersweet combinations, so it is better to balance these tastes in cocktails. In practice, for example, 20 ml of sweet syrup or liqueur can be added to 20 ml of lemon juice. If you look at recipes for classic cocktails, many have about this formula. In mix-drinks, such as Gin & Tonic, I advise a 1 to 3 formula, that is 40 ml of gin to 120 ml of tonic. This keeps a moderate strength, and the drink is balanced. 

What strong drinks do Peter Spanton tonics combine with?

Peter Spanton is a rare quality product from a British manufacturer, and the Kingdom knows a lot about tonics. The line from former restaurateur Peter Spanton is harmonious and versatile: for tequila, for example, I would recommend PS Salted Paloma, and for matured spirits, such as whiskey or cognac, Ginger Ale with a delicate smoky note will suit perfectly. Any white spirit, be it vodka, gin or grappa, will pair well with PS tonics like Cardamon, Lemongrass or London Tonic. My favorite is the aged rum with Chocolate Tonic. In addition to the chocolate, it has a light mint flavor, and everyone remembers well how mint and rum go together from the Mojito cocktail.

How do you use sweet liqueurs in cocktails?

Liqueurs are great solo as well, but they are much more popular as part of cocktails, as evidenced by hundreds of recipes. Often, liqueurs soften stronger alcohol, giving the drink its missing sweetness. They have bright, deep, beautiful colors, and a variety of fruity and herbaceous ingredients, so they make the perfect light aperitif cocktails.

Liqueurs are best used in combination with an unsweetened filler. A tonic or soda dilutes the subdued sweetness perfectly, while a slice or citrus juice will add freshness to the cocktail. By the way, you don’t have to be afraid to dilute alcohol with water or soda. There are many examples of cocktails from various countries where water is used as a filler. For example, whiskey with still or sparkling water is very popular in the U.S., and anise liqueur with soda is in demand in the south of Europe.

What do you need to have at home to make simple cocktails?

With this minimal set, you can make about ten classic cocktails, and that will be enough for a fun party:

• ice in the freezer;
• from strong – bourbon, vodka, gin, rum;
• angostura bitters;
• a bottle of sweet vermouth;
• lemon to make juice;
• sugar;
• a couple of quality fillers – tonic and ginger lemonade.

Where to draw inspiration to delve deeper into mixology and bar art?

Today’s world situation has hit the restaurant and bar business very hard, but many have been able to realize their knowledge online through Instagram and Zoom. For example, the guys at Dictatura Estetica Bar have been doing live shows with their guests and teaching them how to make cocktails at home.

You can find a lot of similar videos on YouTube now. Of the professional sources, I can highlight Bar Solution and Bartenders factory. Their professional bartenders teach industry professionals, beginners, and amateurs.

The best cocktail according to the author

Nonino Amaro Quintessentia + London Tonic

• 55 ml of liqueur;
• 120 ml of Tonic;
• slice of orange;
• 10 ml of tabasco.

Preparation

Put cubic ice in a highball. Pour the liqueur over the top, then add the tonic. Stir and garnish with orange.