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46 MH.CO.ZA | October 2015 G&T: The Remix it may not look like a G&T, but it is. The colour comes cour- tesy of Joburg-based Socks Craft Tonic. Mix it with a shot of Hope on Hopkins London Dry gin over ice, grate cinna- mon into the drink and garnish with an orange slice. Serve it in a rounded cocktail or wine glass. “It’s a great way to keep all the aromas and flavour in the glass,” says Mulholland. THE ARTISAN’S CHOICE Jorgensen’s Gin Made by Roger Jor- gensen, the most established distiller in the country, this is a spicy, aromatic spirit with an acquired taste. Drink FORGET THOSE CRUSTY ASSOCIATIONS WITH THE British Raj and the Great Depression. The gin and tonic (or supersonic, if you’re into Cockney Rhyming Slang) is experiencing a massive global resurgence, led by Spain. The knock-on effect is that every bartender and his auntie is experimenting with new combinations of artisan gins and tonics. Local boozehounds are not being left behind, as start-up gin distilleries, tonic producers and wonderful weirdos making bitters, aperitifs and other tinctures are adding to the revival. But if you still prefer a plain G&T, that’s okay too, says Mark Mulholland, founder of Cape Town gin bar Mother’s Ruin. Just be wary of over-diluting. “That’s the biggest mistake most people make,” he says. “You shouldn’t taste more tonic than gin.” Mulholland suggests garnishing to add flavour and colour. “Use cucumber, lemon or orange slices or herbs. Also, experiment with different types of gin and different tonics with different flavours.” THE BIG BOYS Stock Up On These Malegrams Arguably the world’s most popular cocktail, the classic gin and tonic is getting a makeover. Add some local flavour to yours Upgrade Your G&T BOTANICAL BOUNTY Inverroche Gin There are three options from this Stilbaai family distillery: Classic, which is double distilled for absolute crispness and subtlety; the green- tinged and floral Ver- dant; and Amber, which is infused with spices and berries. 100% HOMEGROWN Hope on Hopkins By South Africans who gave up their London Law careers to open SA’s first inner city gin distillery in Cape Town. There are two variants: the London Dry and the Salt River. Bottom line? You have more options than ever before. Enjoy it the classic way, with a simple gin like a Gordon’s or Gilbey’s, a slice of lemon and some Schweppes. Or get creative with different flavours – from citrus fruits to spices like nutmeg, cinnamon and coriander. Either way, pull up a sunchair, because there’s a new selection of spirits that’ll change the way you look at your G&T. PHOTOGRAPHS CAMERON MCDONALD
