Gin is one of the most versatile spirits in the world of mixology. Its botanical, fresh, and complex flavor lends itself to countless combinations, making it the undisputed star of many iconic cocktails — from the famous Gin & Tonic to the sophisticated Martini.
But what are the best pairings to enhance its flavor? Which recipes can be easily made at home? And what really sets a Collins apart from a Fizz? Let’s dive into this guide to gin cocktails — perfect for anyone who wants to play bartender without leaving the living room.
What goes well with gin?
Gin has a bold aromatic character, led by juniper berries and enriched with a variety of botanicals (citrus, spices, herbs). That’s why it pairs well with a wide range of ingredients. Classic pairings include:
- Tonic water: the perfect companion for a Gin & Tonic, balancing the bitterness with a fizzy touch.
- Lemon or lime juice: ideal for adding acidity to sour cocktails like the Tom Collins or Gimlet.
- Fresh herbs: such as mint, basil, or rosemary, which enhance gin’s botanical notes.
- Berries and citrus fruits: perfect for adding aroma, color, and flavor to long drinks.
- Fruity or floral liqueurs: like Cointreau, St-Germain, or Maraschino, to add sweetness and complexity.
- Prosecco or Champagne: to bring elegance and effervescence to any mix.
The goal is always the same: to balance gin’s structure with fresh, sweet, or tangy notes — highlighting the botanicals without overpowering them.
What’s the best gin for cocktails?
Choosing the right gin depends on the type of cocktail you want to make. Some gins are drier and more classic (like London Dry), while others are floral or spiced (like modern craft gins). Here’s a quick guide:
- For classics (Gin & Tonic, Negroni, Martini): go for a London Dry like Tanqueray, Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire, or Gordon’s.
- For citrusy or floral cocktails: pick gins with unique botanicals like Hendrick’s (with cucumber and rose notes) or Monkey 47 (complex and aromatic).
- For light or fruity drinks: Mediterranean or infused gins (like Malfy Lemon or Gin Mare) offer a fresh, original twist.
- For bold flavor lovers: Navy Strength Gin (57% ABV) is perfect for stronger cocktails.
What’s the difference between a Collins and a Fizz?
Tom Collins and Gin Fizz are similar but not the same. Both include gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and sparkling water or soda.
They’re both refreshing, but the Fizz involves a slightly more elaborate preparation. The main difference lies in the technique and final texture:
- Tom Collins: built directly in a highball glass by mixing the ingredients and topping with soda. A fizzy long drink, usually served over ice.
- Gin Fizz: shaken with ice, strained into a lowball or flute, and topped with soda. It has a smoother texture and may include egg white for a foamy finish (as in the Ramos Gin Fizz).
What cocktails can you make with gin?
Gin is the star of some of the most beloved drinks, from easy-to-make to refined and complex. Let’s explore different recipes for every taste and occasion.
Simple gin cocktails
Here are some easy recipes to make without any fancy equipment:
Gimlet
- 60 ml gin
- 30 ml fresh lime juice
- 15 ml simple syrup
Shake well and serve in a chilled coupe glass.
Gin Lemon
- 50 ml gin
- 100 ml lemon soda
- Lemon slices
Built in a glass over ice. Fresh and easy.
Gin & Sprite
A sweet alternative to the classic G\&T. Built highball-style with gin, Sprite, and lemon.
Gin & Tonic cocktails
A timeless classic — but one you can customize endlessly:
Cucumber & Pink Pepper Gin Tonic
- 50 ml gin (e.g., Hendrick’s)
- 150 ml tonic water
- Thin cucumber slices
- Pink peppercorns
Citrus Gin Tonic
- Citrus-forward gin
- Neutral tonic
- Orange and grapefruit zest
Rosemary & Lime Gin Tonic
- Dry gin
- Mediterranean tonic
- Sprig of rosemary
- Lime wedges
Gin cocktails with olive
Now we enter the world of drier, more sophisticated cocktails:
Dry Martini
- 60 ml gin
- 10 ml dry vermouth
- One or two green olives
Stir with ice in a mixing glass, then strain into a coupe glass.
Dirty Martini
Same recipe, with an added teaspoon of olive brine for a saltier, bolder flavor.
A lighter alternative is a Gin Tonic garnished with an olive — a savory twist.
Unique gin cocktails
Want to impress? Try these bold combinations:
Negroni
- 30 ml gin
- 30 ml sweet vermouth
- 30 ml bitter (e.g., Campari)
Stir and serve in a tumbler over ice with an orange peel.
Bramble
- 50 ml gin
- 25 ml lemon juice
- 15 ml simple syrup
- 15 ml crème de mûre (blackberry liqueur)
Shake everything but the liqueur, pour over ice, and float the crème de mûre on top.
French 75
- 45 ml gin
- 15 ml lemon juice
- 15 ml simple syrup
- Top with prosecco or champagne
Shake the first three ingredients, serve in a flute, and top with bubbles.
Gin and prosecco cocktails
Elegant and light, perfect for brunch or a special aperitivo.
Gin Royale
- 40 ml gin
- 10 ml St-Germain (optional)
- Prosecco to top
Serve in a balloon glass with ice and a lemon peel.
Negroni Sbagliato with Gin
A twist on the classic:
- 30 ml gin
- 30 ml sweet vermouth
- 30 ml prosecco
Built directly in the glass.
Gin Hugo
A twist on the classic Hugo, replacing prosecco with gin:
- 30 ml gin
- 10 ml elderflower syrup
- Fresh mint leaves
- Sparkling water or prosecco
Gin and mint cocktails
Mint is one of the freshest herbs to pair with gin — perfect for summer drinks.
Southside
- 50 ml gin
- 25 ml lime juice
- 20 ml simple syrup
- Mint leaves
Shake everything vigorously, strain into a coupe glass.
Mint & Cucumber Cooler
- 40 ml gin
- Cucumber slices
- Fresh mint
- Lime juice
- Tonic water
Build in a highball, gently muddling the mint and cucumber.
Gin and orange juice cocktails
Orange juice adds roundness and natural sweetness — great for brunch or casual evenings.
Gin & Orange
- 50 ml gin
- 100 ml fresh orange juice
Serve over ice, garnish with an orange slice.
Gin Sunrise
A gin twist on the Tequila Sunrise:
- 50 ml gin
- 90 ml orange juice
- 10 ml grenadine
Pour grenadine last for a layered effect.
Orange Collins
- 50 ml gin
- 30 ml lemon juice
- 60 ml orange juice
- Soda or sparkling water
Where to drink signature gin cocktails in Naples
Found your perfect gin cocktail to make at home? Now’s the time to taste it made by the pros. At KarmaCore – Bistrot & Lounge Bar in the heart of Naples, you’ll find a curated cocktail list where gin takes center stage — featuring classics, creative twists, and bold pairings.
Book your table at KarmaCore and let yourself be guided through a journey of botanicals, aromas, and flavors — your next favorite gin is waiting behind the bar.
