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When the weather heats up and the days get longer, there’s nothing quite like a gin and tonic to refresh and rejuvenate your spirit.
This iconic cocktail, beloved for its crisp and clean profile, has evolved into countless variations, each offering a new and exciting twist on the classic recipe.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, lounging by the pool, or simply enjoying a quiet evening on the patio, a gin and tonic is the ultimate summer drink.
In this article, we’re sharing 23+ summer gin and tonic recipes that range from classic concoctions to bold, innovative blends.
With vibrant fruits, fresh herbs, and creative infusions, these gin and tonic recipes will keep your summer sipping exciting and refreshingly different.
From citrusy bursts to herbal nuances, we have a cocktail for every palate.
Let’s dive into these incredible recipes and elevate your gin and tonic game!
23+ Irresistible Summer Gin and Tonic Recipes You Must Try This Season
Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new flavors and enjoy refreshing cocktails that cool you off and satisfy your taste buds.
Whether you prefer a traditional gin and tonic or a more adventurous blend with tropical fruits or aromatic herbs, these 23+ summer gin and tonic recipes are sure to impress.
They’re simple to make yet bursting with flavor, making them ideal for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating with friends or unwinding solo.
So, gather your favorite gin, tonic, and fresh ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a variety of delightful gin and tonic recipes that will make this summer unforgettable.
Citrus Garden Gin and Tonic
Bright, zesty, and delightfully aromatic, the Citrus Garden Gin and Tonic is perfect for those long, golden summer evenings.
Combining multiple citrus fruits with a floral gin, this cocktail captures the essence of a lush backyard garden in full bloom.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz botanical gin (like Hendrick’s or Monkey 47)
- 4 oz premium tonic water
- 1 slice pink grapefruit
- 1 slice lemon
- 1 slice lime
- 3 fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a balloon or highball glass with ice cubes.
- Add the gin and lightly stir to chill.
- Gently add the tonic water to preserve the bubbles.
- Tuck the slices of grapefruit, lemon, and lime around the ice.
- Slap the mint leaves between your palms to release their oils and add to the glass.
- Stir once or twice gently and serve.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or relaxing solo on a sun-drenched patio, the Citrus Garden Gin and Tonic delivers a refreshing symphony of flavors that feels tailor-made for sunny afternoons.
The medley of citrus and mint makes each sip a small escape to an endless summer.
Berry Breeze Gin and Tonic
Sweet, tart, and bubbling with color, the Berry Breeze Gin and Tonic is the ultimate fruity refresher.
Fresh berries and a hint of elderflower turn this classic into a playful and vibrant drink that’s just right for balmy summer days.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz dry gin
- 4 oz elderflower tonic water
- 4 fresh raspberries
- 4 fresh blueberries
- 2 fresh blackberries
- 1 small sprig of rosemary
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a glass generously with ice.
- Pour in the gin and add the fresh berries.
- Slowly top with elderflower tonic water.
- Stir very gently to mix without breaking the berries.
- Garnish with a sprig of rosemary for a light herbal touch.
The Berry Breeze Gin and Tonic is a vibrant and celebratory cocktail that looks just as good as it tastes.
Each sip is a playful dance between sweet berries and fragrant rosemary, creating a drink that’s almost too beautiful to drink — almost.
Tropical Heat Gin and Tonic
For those who love a bit of adventure in their glass, the Tropical Heat Gin and Tonic brings together tropical fruits and a hint of spice.
It’s a bold, lively cocktail that perfectly matches the daring spirit of summer.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz spiced gin (or regular gin with a dash of chili bitters)
- 4 oz classic tonic water
- 2 slices fresh pineapple
- 1 slice fresh jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 small wedge of lime
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Pack a highball glass with ice cubes.
- Add the gin and squeeze in the lime wedge before dropping it into the glass.
- Pour in the tonic water slowly.
- Add pineapple slices and a single slice of jalapeño.
- Stir gently to combine.
The Tropical Heat Gin and Tonic is a bold take on a classic, offering just the right touch of fruitiness and a kick of spice to wake up your taste buds.
It’s the perfect companion for adventurous evenings when the air is warm, and anything feels possible.
Cucumber & Basil Gin and Tonic
A refreshing and herbaceous blend, the Cucumber & Basil Gin and Tonic is a cool, crisp cocktail that transports you straight to a summer garden party.
The cucumber brings a cool, clean flavor, while the basil adds an aromatic, earthy note that perfectly complements the gin.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz cucumber-infused gin (or regular gin with a few cucumber slices)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 4 fresh basil leaves
- 2 slices cucumber
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Add the cucumber-infused gin (or regular gin with cucumber slices).
- Tear the basil leaves lightly to release their aroma and add them to the glass.
- Add the cucumber slices for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently.
The Cucumber & Basil Gin and Tonic is as rejuvenating as a cool breeze on a hot day. With its delicate and herbaceous profile, it’s a perfect drink for a lazy afternoon or an elegant evening gathering.
The interplay of cucumber and basil creates a light yet refreshing taste that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ginger Lime Gin and Tonic
Zingy, spicy, and wonderfully effervescent, the Ginger Lime Gin and Tonic packs a flavorful punch with the bold kick of ginger, balanced by the tanginess of lime.
It’s an invigorating combination that adds a little extra energy to your summer sipping.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (preferably with botanicals)
- 4 oz ginger beer (not ginger ale, for a stronger flavor)
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1 slice lime
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the gin and lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir to combine.
- Garnish with a slice of lime for a fresh, zesty finish.
The Ginger Lime Gin and Tonic is a bold and refreshing drink that captures the zest of summer. The spicy kick from the ginger beer paired with the citrusy lime makes it an ideal cocktail to enjoy during lively summer nights or while lounging by the pool.
The combination brings the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
Melon Mint Gin and Tonic
Cool, sweet, and refreshingly hydrating, the Melon Mint Gin and Tonic is the epitome of summer in a glass.
Combining juicy melon with the invigorating flavor of fresh mint, this cocktail is a perfect thirst quencher for warm, sunny days.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (preferably cucumber or citrus-flavored)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 cup watermelon or cantaloupe cubes
- 4 fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Add melon cubes and mint leaves to a glass.
- Use a muddler to lightly crush the mint and melon to release their juices.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the gin and top with tonic water.
- Stir gently and garnish with extra mint leaves for an aromatic finish.
The Melon Mint Gin and Tonic is the perfect drink to sip on while lounging in the sun or by the beach.
Its cool and refreshing melon base combined with the mint gives the drink a light, breezy quality that makes it a great choice when temperatures are high and relaxation is a priority. It’s pure summer in a glass!
Lavender Lemon Gin and Tonic
Floral, fragrant, and citrusy, the Lavender Lemon Gin and Tonic combines the calming aroma of lavender with the bright zing of lemon.
It’s an elegant and refreshing cocktail that brings a little touch of luxury to any summer occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (preferably a floral gin, like Bloom or Bombay Sapphire)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp lavender syrup (or a few dried lavender buds)
- 1 lemon wheel for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the gin and lemon juice into the glass.
- Add lavender syrup or dried lavender buds and stir gently.
- Top with tonic water and stir again.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel for a fragrant, citrusy touch.
The Lavender Lemon Gin and Tonic is a sophisticated and refined drink that feels like a breath of fresh air.
The delicate floral notes of lavender perfectly complement the zesty brightness of lemon, creating a refreshing and aromatic drink that’s perfect for a warm evening on the patio.
Apple & Cinnamon Gin and Tonic
Warm, comforting, and subtly sweet, the Apple & Cinnamon Gin and Tonic is an autumn-inspired twist on the classic cocktail.
This recipe pairs crisp apple with a hint of cinnamon, creating a cozy and refreshing summer drink that’s perfect for transitioning from hot days to cooler evenings.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (a dry gin works best)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/4 cup fresh apple slices
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cinnamon stick for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle fresh apple slices and cinnamon in a glass to release their flavors.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes and add the gin.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick for added flavor and a festive touch.
The Apple & Cinnamon Gin and Tonic is a comforting and unique take on the classic, blending the familiar sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon.
This drink feels perfect for a late summer evening when the air is cooling down, offering a perfect balance of spice and sweetness in each sip.
Peach & Thyme Gin and Tonic
Juicy, fragrant, and fresh, the Peach & Thyme Gin and Tonic offers a fruity twist with a herbal touch.
The natural sweetness of ripe peaches combined with earthy thyme creates a light, aromatic cocktail that feels like summer in full bloom.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (a citrus-forward gin works wonderfully)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 fresh peach, sliced
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the peach slices and thyme in a glass to release their flavors.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the gin over the muddled fruit and herbs.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently.
- Garnish with a sprig of thyme for an extra touch of fragrance.
The Peach & Thyme Gin and Tonic brings together the juicy sweetness of peaches with the herbaceous flavor of thyme.
It’s a perfect drink for when you want something light and fresh, yet flavorful, making it a great choice for summer brunches or casual evening get-togethers.
Pineapple Coconut Gin and Tonic
Tropical and creamy with a burst of citrus, the Pineapple Coconut Gin and Tonic is a vacation in a glass.
This island-inspired cocktail combines the sweet tang of pineapple with the smooth, rich flavor of coconut, delivering a relaxing escape no matter where you are.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz coconut gin (or regular gin with a splash of coconut water)
- 4 oz pineapple juice
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1 slice fresh pineapple
- 1 lime wedge
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
- Add the coconut gin and pineapple juice.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently.
- Garnish with a fresh pineapple slice and a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
The Pineapple Coconut Gin and Tonic is perfect for those who crave a tropical twist.
The smooth coconut flavor combined with the sweetness of pineapple makes this drink incredibly refreshing and ideal for sipping on hot summer days by the pool or at a beachside gathering.
Spicy Mango Gin and Tonic
Bold and exciting, the Spicy Mango Gin and Tonic offers a flavorful kick to your summer cocktail lineup.
The ripe sweetness of mango pairs beautifully with a touch of chili heat, while the gin and tonic balance everything for a vibrant and unforgettable drink.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (a citrus-forward gin is great)
- 4 oz mango puree or fresh mango chunks muddled
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1 small red chili pepper (sliced, seeds removed)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the fresh mango chunks and chili slices at the bottom of a glass.
- Add ice cubes to the glass.
- Pour in the gin and top with tonic water.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with an additional slice of chili for extra heat, or a mango wedge for a sweet finish.
The Spicy Mango Gin and Tonic is the perfect drink for those who love bold flavors with a twist of heat. It’s exciting and unexpected, with the sweetness of mango balancing the subtle spice from the chili.
This drink is ideal for summer nights when you’re looking for something a little different and a lot more adventurous.
Raspberry Rose Gin and Tonic
Elegant and fragrant, the Raspberry Rose Gin and Tonic is a beautiful, floral drink that feels like a celebration.
The tart raspberries are complemented by the delicate notes of rose, creating a cocktail that’s both refreshing and sophisticated.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (preferably a floral gin like Hendrick’s)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/2 tsp rose water
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the raspberries in a glass to release their juices.
- Add ice cubes and pour in the gin.
- Add the rose water and top with tonic water.
- Stir gently and garnish with a few extra raspberries or a small edible flower.
The Raspberry Rose Gin and Tonic is a refined and delightful drink that combines the sweetness of raspberries with the aromatic elegance of rose.
It’s perfect for a summer garden party, a bridal shower, or any occasion that calls for a touch of floral sophistication in your drink.
Watermelon Mint Gin and Tonic
Cool, refreshing, and full of summer vibes, the Watermelon Mint Gin and Tonic is the ultimate thirst quencher.
Combining the juicy sweetness of watermelon with the crisp freshness of mint, this cocktail is light, hydrating, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (preferably a citrus-forward gin)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 cup fresh watermelon cubes
- 3-4 fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the fresh watermelon cubes and mint leaves in a glass to release their flavors.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Add the gin and top with tonic water.
- Stir gently and garnish with a sprig of mint or a watermelon wedge for extra freshness.
The Watermelon Mint Gin and Tonic is a wonderfully refreshing drink, perfect for a hot summer day. The light and juicy watermelon pairs beautifully with the mint, making this cocktail a hydrating treat that’s both satisfying and rejuvenating.
It’s ideal for sipping by the pool or enjoying at a summer barbecue.
Blackberries & Sage Gin and Tonic
For a drink that’s both earthy and fruity, the Blackberries & Sage Gin and Tonic is a fantastic option.
The sweet, tangy blackberries combine perfectly with the herbal notes of sage, creating a drink that is as aromatic as it is flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (a floral or botanical gin works well)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 4-5 fresh blackberries
- 2 fresh sage leaves
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the blackberries and sage leaves in the bottom of a glass to release their flavors.
- Add ice cubes to the glass.
- Pour in the gin and top with tonic water.
- Stir gently to combine and garnish with an additional sage leaf or a few more blackberries.
The Blackberries & Sage Gin and Tonic offers a unique twist on the traditional gin and tonic, combining the sweetness of blackberries with the earthiness of sage.
It’s a cocktail that’s perfect for evening relaxation or an intimate gathering, offering both complexity and refreshment with each sip.
Lemon Basil & Elderflower Gin and Tonic
A fragrant, citrusy delight with a hint of floral sweetness, the Lemon Basil & Elderflower Gin and Tonic is a cocktail that bursts with brightness.
The fresh lemon and basil bring a zesty, herbaceous punch, while the elderflower liqueur adds a delicate, floral undertone.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (try a London dry gin for a more classic flavor)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)
- 1/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3-4 fresh basil leaves
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the basil leaves in a glass to release their flavor.
- Add ice cubes, followed by the gin and elderflower liqueur.
- Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and top with tonic water.
- Stir gently and garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of basil for an added touch of freshness.
The Lemon Basil & Elderflower Gin and Tonic is the perfect balance of citrusy brightness and floral sweetness. It’s an ideal cocktail for summer evenings when you want something refreshing yet elegant.
The combination of lemon, basil, and elderflower is as refreshing as it is sophisticated, making it a great choice for garden parties or evening cocktails with friends.
Pear & Thyme Gin and Tonic
Sweet and earthy, the Pear & Thyme Gin and Tonic is a subtly sophisticated cocktail that combines the crispness of pear with the herbal notes of thyme.
It’s a drink that feels like a cool breeze on a warm summer evening, perfect for those who love delicate flavors with a refreshing twist.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (a floral or herbal gin works well)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 ripe pear, thinly sliced
- 1-2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the pear slices and thyme sprigs in a glass to release their flavors.
- Add ice cubes and pour in the gin.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with an additional sprig of thyme or a slice of pear for extra elegance.
The Pear & Thyme Gin and Tonic is a refreshing, subtly sweet cocktail that offers a perfect balance of fruit and herb.
Its gentle, aromatic profile makes it a wonderful choice for relaxed gatherings or as a crisp aperitif before dinner.
Kiwi & Lime Gin and Tonic
Tart, tropical, and vibrant, the Kiwi & Lime Gin and Tonic brings together the tangy flavor of kiwi with the zesty kick of lime.
It’s a deliciously refreshing drink that’s perfect for hot summer days when you crave something bright and invigorating.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (a citrus-forward gin works best)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1 ripe kiwi, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 lime, cut into wedges
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the kiwi slices and lime wedges in a glass to release their juices.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour in the gin and top with tonic water.
- Stir gently and garnish with extra kiwi slices or a lime wedge.
The Kiwi & Lime Gin and Tonic is the perfect combination of tangy and refreshing, with the tropical flavor of kiwi and the citrusy zing of lime.
It’s an ideal cocktail for summer parties, offering a burst of vibrant flavor that’s sure to refresh your guests.
Pomegranate & Rosemary Gin and Tonic
Rich, fruity, and aromatic, the Pomegranate & Rosemary Gin and Tonic is a visually stunning drink with a balance of tartness and herbal depth.
The pomegranate provides a burst of flavor, while the rosemary adds an earthy, aromatic quality that elevates this cocktail to something special.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (preferably a botanical gin)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 2 tbsp pomegranate juice
- 3-4 fresh rosemary sprigs
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Add the gin and pomegranate juice to the glass.
- Gently stir to combine.
- Add a sprig of rosemary for a fragrant infusion.
- Top with tonic water and stir lightly to combine.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds or a rosemary sprig for extra color and aroma.
The Pomegranate & Rosemary Gin and Tonic is a visually beautiful and flavorful cocktail that’s perfect for special occasions or a refreshing treat on a sunny afternoon.
The tartness of the pomegranate pairs beautifully with the earthy rosemary, making it a drink that’s both refreshing and full of depth.
Orange Blossom & Almond Gin and Tonic
Delicate and fragrant, the Orange Blossom & Almond Gin and Tonic offers a refreshing yet slightly nutty twist on the classic.
The floral notes of orange blossom combined with the nutty undertones of almond create a unique, elegant drink that’s perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (a citrus-forward or floral gin works best)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 oz orange blossom water
- 1/4 oz almond syrup
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Add the gin, orange blossom water, and almond syrup to the glass.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel for an aromatic finish.
The Orange Blossom & Almond Gin and Tonic is the perfect drink for those who love a little floral sweetness with their gin.
The almond syrup adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the floral citrus notes, making it an ideal cocktail for relaxed summer evenings or special celebrations.
Grapefruit & Jalapeño Gin and Tonic
A refreshing and slightly spicy twist on the classic gin and tonic, the Grapefruit & Jalapeño Gin and Tonic combines the tartness of grapefruit with a kick of heat from jalapeño.
It’s an exciting cocktail that offers a delightful balance of refreshing citrus and spicy warmth.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (preferably a dry gin)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 grapefruit, sliced
- 1-2 slices fresh jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Add the gin and top with tonic water.
- Gently muddle the grapefruit slices and jalapeño slices in the glass to release their juices and flavors.
- Stir gently and garnish with a slice of grapefruit or additional jalapeño slices.
The Grapefruit & Jalapeño Gin and Tonic is perfect for those who enjoy a drink with a little heat. The tartness of the grapefruit complements the spice of the jalapeño, while the gin and tonic round out the flavors for a refreshing yet bold cocktail.
This drink is perfect for those hot summer nights when you want something with a little kick!
Lemon Cucumber & Dill Gin and Tonic
Light, herbaceous, and refreshing, the Lemon Cucumber & Dill Gin and Tonic is an ideal drink for summer days when you need something crisp and cooling.
The cucumber’s clean, refreshing taste, paired with the zesty lemon and fragrant dill, makes this cocktail light yet full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (a cucumber gin works well here)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 lemon, sliced
- 1-2 sprigs fresh dill
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Muddle the cucumber slices and dill in a glass to release their flavors.
- Add ice cubes and pour in the gin.
- Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and add the lemon slices to the glass.
- Top with tonic water and stir gently.
- Garnish with a sprig of dill or a cucumber ribbon for a fresh, herbal touch.
The Lemon Cucumber & Dill Gin and Tonic is the perfect summer drink for anyone who loves a light, refreshing cocktail.
The combination of cucumber, lemon, and dill creates a cool, clean, and aromatic flavor profile that’s incredibly refreshing. It’s ideal for hot days spent in the sun or as a light, pre-dinner drink.