There’s nothing like a cool, refreshing G&T on a scorching-hot day to make you think summer is here. Besides being damn delicious, refreshing and the perfect way to spend an arvie, drinking G&Ts has some health benefits too! And we’re not just talking about the mood-boosting ones. Juniper berries – from which gin is made – are high in antioxidants and have infection-fighting qualities. Gin is also a natural spirit and lower in kilojoules than other alcohols!
The trick is not to overdo the sugary mixers. Opt for sugar-free or lite mixers (many brands are doing sugar-free tonics, like Schweppes) and add extra flavour with healthy garnishes, like fresh citrus, cucumber, berries, rosemary, mint and thyme. Or try Secco’s infusion packs containing freeze-dried fruit and spices to infuse your G&T (R149, Yuppiechef. com). Bonus: the herbs used to create gin can increase stomach acid and digestive enzymes, meaning it can improve your digestion.
Autograph Gin
A citrusy gin, Autograph is a new player on the scene. Visit their gin bar and tasting room in Stellenbosch. From R500 (750ml), AutographGin.com
Hendrick’s Gin
Many of you might not know this, but Hendrick’s Gin (from Scotland) was created by a woman, Lesley Grace, and has a distinct rose and cucumber flavour. From R350 (750ml), Hendricksgin.com
PURA
Step aside tonic – try mixing your gin with PURA’s range of “grownup” sodas: less sugar, natural flavours and no colourants. I love the cucumber-and lime flavour with a splash of gin and extra fresh lime. R69 (6 x 330ml), PuraBeverageCo.Com
Gordon’s Gin
Gordon’s Gin is a classic that’s been around for nearly 250 years. It’s delicious with tonic, lemon, cucumber, mint and loads of ice! From R150 (750ml), GordonsGin.com
Hope on Hopkins Gin
Want to make your own gin? Blend yours at the Radisson RED Cape Town with Hope on Hopkins Gin at the OUI Bar. Not in CT? Order the HOH savoury Mediterranean Gin, it’s best served with olives. From R450 (750ml), HopeOnHopkins.co.za
Time Anchor Distillery
Mirari Pink Damask Rose Gin and the Blue Orient Spice Gin are distilled at the Time Anchor Distillery in Maboneng in Joburg and we’re obsessed with the gorgeous labels. Book for a bespoke tasting experience. From R359 (750ml), TimeAnchor.co.za
MONKS Mary Jane
MONKS Mary Jane – now that weed is (more?) legal, expect to see hemp flavours pop up in everything. It’s a trend! This is the first South African gin to be infused with hemp and it pairs really well with Fitch & Leedes Pink Tonic (try the sugar-free version, R46 for 6 x 200ml). From R450 (750ml), MonksGin.co.za
Tanqueray London Dry Gin
Cocktail lover? Tanqueray London Dry Gin has been a household gin since 1830 and, because of its versatility, it’s a great cocktail gin. Think martinis and negronis (35ml gin, 25ml Campari, 25ml Vermouth and a slice of orange zest). From R230 (750ml), Tanqueray.com
The Duchess
The Duchess has launched a new herbaceous addition to the family of non-alcoholic G&Ts: the Greenery. Infused with rosemary, lime and cucumber, it’s the ideal drink for teetotallers or DDs. From R18 (275ml), TheDuchess.co.za
Sugarbird Fynbos Gin
Sugarbird Fynbos Gin tastes of the Cape. Think: buchu, rooibos, honeybush, citrus and cardamom. We’re obsessed with the new gin baubles that have launched just in time for the festive season. Because who doesn’t want a gin tree? They’ve also released a one-litre bottle. From R449 (1L), SugarBirdGin.com
Inverroche Gin Classic
Want fresh, crisp and zesty? Then Inverroche Gin Classic, served with some fresh lime and pomegranate will become your fave summer sip. Inverroche was really the pioneer of local craftgin and we love them for aiding in it becoming the trend it is today. From R350 (750ml), Inverroche.com
