Recipe: A Simple Gin Cocktail

I have long been an advocate for bringing back cocktail hour.

There is something incredibly appropriate about the ritual of taking a brief libation to decompress and ready oneself for the evening meal. The Italians partake in daily aperetivo the French, apero; so why not join them?

This is a recipe for a simple gin cocktail. While not technically an aperitivo, I believe it is enjoyable at any time of day. With its addition of jam, you could even claim it as a breakfast drink, should you desire.

Just don't call me a bad influence...

It errs somewhere between a gimlet (sweet and sour) and a tom collins (with a fragrant lemon fizz), and you will likely have all the ingredients at home.

Sip slowly and allow yourself to be transported - cin cin!

Simple Gin Cocktail

50mls/2 ounces of gin

1 generous teaspoon of jam - my favourites are ginger marmalade, or strawberry. Add more jam if you prefer a sweeter drink

30mls/1 ounce of lemon juice

Soda water

Add gin, jam and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker and half fill with ice.

Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. The aim is to chill and dilute the gin, as well as break up the jam so it disperses evenly throughout the drink.

Strain into a chilled coupe glass (or any short glass of your choosing).

Top with a dash of cold soda water, garnish with a lemon twist and enjoy!

Shall we enjoy this cocktail together? Get in touch to arrange a date.