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Perfect Smoked Rosemary Gin and Tonic Recipe with Grapefruit Twist

smoked rosemary gin and tonic - featured image

A refreshing twist on the classic gin and tonic featuring smoked rosemary and a bright grapefruit twist, delivering a subtle smoky aroma with citrusy brightness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz (60 ml) quality London dry gin (e.g., Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire)
  • 1 large sprig fresh rosemary, for smoking and garnish
  • Half a fresh grapefruit, zested and juiced (about 1 oz juice)
  • 45 oz (120150 ml) chilled tonic water (e.g., Fever-Tree or Q Tonic)
  • Large ice cubes
  • Optional: thin slice of grapefruit or extra sprig of fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill a highball or Collins glass with large ice cubes to chill it thoroughly (about 2 minutes).
  2. Zest thin strips of grapefruit peel, avoiding the bitter white pith, then squeeze about 1 oz (30 ml) of fresh grapefruit juice and set aside.
  3. Place the rosemary sprig in a small metal pan or smoker. Light a small piece of wood chip or dried rosemary and add it to the pan to create smoke. Hold the rosemary over the smoke with tongs for about 10-15 seconds until lightly charred and aromatic, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Pour 2 oz (60 ml) gin into the chilled glass over the ice. Add the fresh grapefruit juice and a few zest strips. Stir gently to mix flavors without losing carbonation.
  5. Slowly top with 4-5 oz (120-150 ml) chilled tonic water. Pour gently over the back of a spoon to keep bubbles intact.
  6. Drop the smoked rosemary sprig into the glass as a garnish. Optionally, add a thin slice of grapefruit on the rim or inside the drink.

Notes

Do not over-smoke the rosemary to avoid bitterness; 10-15 seconds is ideal. Use large ice cubes to prevent quick dilution. Chill all ingredients and glass beforehand for best results. You can substitute tonic water with flavored tonic for variation. Fresh grapefruit juice is preferred over bottled for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked rosemary gin and tonic, grapefruit gin cocktail, smoky gin and tonic, easy gin cocktail, refreshing summer drink