Few cocktails are as refreshing on a warm summer evening as a gin and tonic. The simple combination of herbaceous gin , a twist of lime and topped with the fizz of tonic is a classic for a reason. The only thing that could make a gin and tonic better? Fresh summer blueberries. Fresh and bright, this blueberry lime gin and tonic may just be the perfect summer cocktail.
A Brief History of the Gin and Tonic
” The gin and tonic has saved more Englishmen’s lives, and minds, than all the doctors in the Empire.” Winston Churchill
Believe it or not the roots of gin and tonic are actually medicinal. In 17th century Holland juniper, star anise and other botanicals were prized for their medical qualities and distilled into a liquor known as Genever. During the Thirty Years War British soldiers brought gin to England where it immediately became popular. Fast forward a century to Colonial India, where quinine was used as a prophylactic against malaria. It’s bitter taste was tempered by dissolving it in water and adding sugar. It was eventually combined with gin and thus was born one of the most beloved classic cocktails.
How to Make Blueberry Simple Syrup
Blueberry simple syrup is (surprise) quite simple to make. Combine equal parts water, sugar and blueberries and heat it up until the sugar has dissolved, the blueberries have burst and the syrup is a deep indigo color. Strain out the berries and let the syrup hang out in the fridge to cool down until you’re ready to make your cocktail.
How to Make a Blueberry Lime Gin and Tonic
The gin and tonic is one of the most simple cocktails to make. Take a highball glass and start with a bit of the blueberry simple syrup and lime juice. Follow this with your favorite gin, a good bit of ice and top it all off with a bubbly, fizzy tonic.
If you like this Blueberry Lime Gin and Tonic be sure to take a look at these other recipes!
If you make this Blueberry Lime Gin and Tonic please be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Also, if you do make this recipe please tag me on Instagram, I’d love to see what you guys are making!
Blueberry Lime Gin and Tonic
Ingredients
For the Blueberry Simple Syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup blueberries fresh or frozen
For the Blueberry Lime Gin and Tonic
- 1 oz blueberry simple syrup
- 1 oz lime juice
- 2 oz gin
- ice
- 4 oz tonic water
Instructions
For the Blueberry Simple Syrup
- In a small sauce pan combine water, sugar and blueberries. Stirring occasionally, cook over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved, the berries have burst and the syrup is a deep indigo color. Strain the berries out and refrigerate the syrup until you're ready to use it.
For the Blueberry Lime Gin and Tonic
- In a highball glass add the simple syrup, lime juice and gin. Add ice and top with tonic. Garnish with fresh blueberries if desired.
Peter says
I can’t imagine anything more refreshing than this gin and tonic. truly a great cocktail especially for the end of summer! wonderful recipe.
Erin says
Yes!!! A gin and tonic is medicinal. Just the news I needed! 🙂 The blueberry-lime flavor of this cocktail is amazing. Delicious flavors!
Saif says
What a refreshing drink and it is best to serve this during summer weather. By the way, can I make this drink non-alcoholic?
Anjali says
This is such a fun summer drink!! It’s light, refreshing and absolutely delicious!
Jenn says
This is such a refreshing cocktail and a nice twist on a classic! The blueberry flavor was out of this world!
Beth Sachs says
A delicious sounding summery gin drink. Perfect for those long hot days of summer. I love blueberries and lime.
Mahy says
Today is Saturday, and I need it so much! Definitely the cocktail that would make my day brighter LOL