How to make gin

How to make gin

Easy compound gin recipe

Ingredients:

• 700ml bottle good quality vodka (we used a rye vodka)
• 2 tbsp juniper berries
• 6 cardamom pods
• pinch dried rose petals
• 1 tsp coriander seeds
• strip of lemon peel

Method:

1. Open the bottle of vodka and add the rest of the ingredients. For a stronger flavour it’s a good idea to bruise the cardamom pods and juniper berries in a pestle and mortar first. Put the lid back on the bottle and leave in a cool dark place for 24 hrs.
2. Strain the infused mixture into a jug through a sieve lined with coffee filter paper, then pour back into the bottle to store. Will keep for months in a cool dark place. Use as you would any gin, so great with tonic or in a martini.

Tip:

Making your own compound gin means that you can create a gin with the flavour profile you like. Try adding more or less of the spices listed, or adding in your own flavourings like black pepper, allspice berries or liquorice root.

How to make flavoured gin

Once you've mastered the basics, why not try bottling seasonal flavours too? Learn how to make flavoured gin with our handy guide and try mixing up some tasty tipples. Maybe you fancy a sweet raspberry gin with a perfectly pink hue, or an autumnal damson gin with a rich, mature flavour. We've got more delicious drinks recipes than you can shake a cocktail shaker at!

Have we whet your appetite for pretty party serves? Check out our ultimate gin cocktail recipe collection for new takes on traditional recipes.

Top 5 gin cocktails to try

1. Coconut & pineapple cooler

Make a crowd-pleasing tropical cocktail for your next summer party or barbecue extravaganza. Our coconut & pineapple cooler is a tasty mix of coconut rum, gin and pineapple juice. You can make a batch in advance and it will happily sit in an ice bucket for several hours.

2. Gimlet

Our elegant gimlet cocktail is a classic for a reason. Combine gin and zingy lime syrup with plenty of ice for a simple but flavourful serve. Top with an edible flower for a final flourish. Try a savoury, herby twist with our fennel gimlet with celery seeds. It's perfect for pairing with nibbles.

3. Dirty martini

We guarantee you'll feel sophisticated whilst sipping our traditional dirty martini, made with dry gin, vermouth and plump green olives. It takes just five minutes to become a masterful mixologist and whip up this terrific tipple.

4. Bramble

Take some flavour inspiration from the hedgerow and treat your tastebuds to a bramble cocktail. This eye-catching gin sour is spiked with a shot of blackberry liqueur and is easily customisable if you want to switch up the flavours.

5. Singapore sling

Mix gin, cherry brandy, Benedictine, Angostura bitters and lime juice together and what do you get? A feast for the senses in the form of a Singapore sling. This tall glass of fruity flavours is just the right balance of sharp and sweet, perfect for parties.

Enjoyed these drinks suggestions? Try our other fabulous cocktails...

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What's your favourite gin cocktail? Leave a comment below...