Blood Orange Gin and Tonic

I clearly remember the first gin and tonic I had. I was on tour with a band I was playing in (a pantomime band, before you start assuming that I’m cool), sitting in a bar in Nottingham with a bunch of friends who were all ordering Gin and Tonic’s. I casually mentioned that I’d never had one, and you would not believe the shock from them, that at the age of 21 I had not had a gin and tonic like… ever? So that was how I came about trying my first one, and since that moment it’s pretty much been my signature drink.

I just love the subtle citrus taste that comes from the gin and the tonic water. Add in a slice of cucumber and lime cordial and you have a real winner. Whatever the time of year, this drink will transport you to a Summer’s day. And lets face it, I feel like a grown up when I’m drinking a Gin and Tonic!

So how can this old favourite be improved? I think the word improved is misplaced here, I don’t think you can improve such a classic which stands so well on it’s own. I have simply given it a twist. I have absolutely LOVED experimenting with blood oranges this year – we’ve gone from toffees, to meringue pies, and now to a drink. This fruit is SO versatile it’s unreal.

The juice of the blood orange makes this cocktail just a little bitter and the most vibrant shade of pinky-red. It’s definitely a show stopper!

Best served over ice and enjoyed with lots of friends!

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Blood Orange Gin and Tonic

Ingredients

Gin
Tonic Water
1 Freshly Squeezed Blood Orange
1 Lime
Ice Cubes

Steps

1. Fill your glasses with ice cubes. Put the gin and the blood orange juice in first and top up with tonic water. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and a lime wedge.

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