The best Dill Gin & Tonic

We did a thing. We went to Disneyland! My husband got us reservations at some of the fine dining spots in the park. Carthay Circle Restaurant in California Adventure did not disappoint. This place transports you to the Golden Age of Hollywood, and the classic cocktails help you forget that you (probably) have blisters on your feet from all the walking. My mother-in-law recommended the dill gin & tonic, and I knew it was meant to be. I immediately began trying to recreate the dill-lightful (sorry) cocktail once we got back home. If you are a pickle person, you HAVE to try this. It is not optional. It is the best dill gin tonic, and you don’t have to trek to Disneyland to try it.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• A glass (I like to use my triple-insulated Corkcicle for drinks like this to keep them cold)
• Jigger for measuring

INGREDIENTS

This makes one cocktail:

• Ice (ice spheres are my favorite)
• 2 oz gin
• 1/2 oz dill pickle brine (I like Grillo’s, but brine from the jar of pickles in your fridge will do)
• 3 oz tonic water

Optional:

• A lemon peel or dill sprig for garnish

HOW TO MAKE THE BEST DILL GIN TONIC

Luckily, the best dill gin & tonic is super easy to make and only takes a minute of your time to concoct.

Step 1:

Firstly, put ice in your glass.

Step 2:

Secondly, measure 2 oz of gin and pour it over the ice.

Step 3:

Thirdly, measure 1/2 oz of dill pickle brine and add it to your glass.

Step 4:

Lastly, top it all off with about 3 oz of tonic water. Optionally add garnish, and of course, enjoy!

Looking for more cocktails? Try a Classic Gin Rickey!

Tips

• Use high-quality gin and tonic water for the best flavor. Fresh pickle brine can elevate the taste of your drink.
• For an extra refreshing experience, chill your glass in the freezer before making your cocktail.
• Stir the ingredients gently to combine them without losing the carbonation from the tonic water. A gentle stir ensures that all the flavors meld together.
• Don’t be afraid to taste it with different variations of the recipe. Try adding spices, herbs, or other mixers to customize the flavor as you like.
• Serve your Pickle Gin and Tonic in stylish glassware to enhance the drinking experience. A well-presented cocktail is always more enjoyable!

Other Variations you may try!

• Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or a slice of jalapeño for a spicy version.
• Sweet and Sour: Balance the pickle brine with a splash of simple honey for a sweeter version.
• Cucumber: Add a few slices of cucumber to the glass for a refreshing version.

FAQ

Can I use any type of gin for this cocktail?

Yes, you can use any gin you prefer. However, a high-quality gin with botanical notes will complement the dill pickle brine best.

What kind of pickle brine should I use?

You can use any dill pickle brine you have in your fridge. Grillo’s is a recommended brand, but any fresh dill pickle brine will work.

How important is the type of ice I use?

Using large ice spheres is ideal because they melt slower and keep your drink colder without diluting it too quickly. However, regular ice cubes will also work.

What type of tonic water should I use?

You can use any tonic water you prefer. High-quality tonic water can make the overall flavor of the cocktail better.

Conclusion

This Pickle Gin and Tonic is a unique cocktail that combines the crispness of gin with the tangy flavor of pickle brine. It’s a fun twist you should try on the classic gin and tonic. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a drink that’s perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or enjoying as a pre-dinner aperitif.