When it comes to enjoying genever, there are a few options for what to drink it with. One classic choice is tonic water, which pairs beautifully with the unique flavors of this Dutch spirit. The choice of tonic water can make a difference in the overall taste experience, so it’s worth exploring different options to find your favorite combination.
Tonic water is a carbonated beverage that has a distinct bitter taste, thanks to the presence of quinine. This bitterness can complement the herbal and malty flavors of genever, creating a refreshing and balanced drink. When mixed together, the botanicals in the genever and the bitterness of the tonic water create a harmonious blend of flavors.
To enjoy genever with tonic water, start by choosing your preferred style of genever, whether it’s oude or jonge. Oude genever tends to have a more robust and malty flavor profile, while jonge genever is lighter and more neutral in taste. Both styles can work well with tonic water, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Next, select a good quality tonic water. There are several artisanal and craft tonic waters available on the market, each with its own unique flavor profile. Experiment with different brands and styles to find the one that complements your genever of choice.
When it comes to serving, there are a few options. You can simply mix equal parts genever and tonic water over ice in a highball glass, garnishing with a slice of lemon or lime for a refreshing twist. Alternatively, you can also opt for a longer drink by adding more tonic water to the mix, creating a lighter and more effervescent cocktail.
One interesting variation to explore is using flavored tonic waters. Nowadays, you can find a variety of flavored tonic waters infused with botanicals such as elderflower, cucumber, or grapefruit. These can add an extra layer of complexity and enhance the flavors of genever in different ways. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.
Lastly, while pairing genever with tonic water is a popular choice, it’s not the only option. Genever can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, allowing you to fully appreciate its unique flavors and aromas. You may also explore genever-based cocktails, such as the classic Genever Martini or the refreshing Genever Collins.
Genever can be enjoyed in various ways, but pairing it with tonic water is a fantastic choice. The bitterness and effervescence of the tonic water complement the flavors of genever, creating a refreshing and enjoyable drink. Experiment with different genever styles, tonic water brands, and even flavored tonics to find your perfect combination. Cheers!