The Tanqueray and Tonic, an all-time classic.

Sweet.

The first time I tasted Tanqueray Gin was back in the early 1980’s. I was living in the Bronx and my best friend Jim convinced me to try one. I was reluctant to be sure for many reasons, firstly the only Gin I had ever had up to that point had been some pretty nasty bottom shelf stuff which tasted like turpentine that my father had on hand. Secondly I was a true bigot back in those days, and anything that came from England, especially London, I boycotted. (Though it is distilled in Scotland these days) Yes I was young, passionate and stupid, now I am not so young or passionate but still pretty numb. Anyway Jim conned and cajoled until I had a wee sip just to make him shut up and leave off the topic.

And as they say, “the rest is History”.

 



A simple work of art.

To Make:  1.5-2.0 oz Tanqueray Gin,  3-4.0 oz Tonic water

Fill glass with Ice, add Gin, then Tonic water squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and add as garnish. Stir slightly so as to not flatten the carbonation and serve.

The TnT (yes like dynamite) is a crisp refreshing eye opening beverage that pleases most everyone. I believe that this classic’s popularity rests within the quality of the Gin itself. Tanqueray has a unique juniper bite to it that blends well with a bit of lime, cut with ice and tonic water. One does not have to “acquire” a taste for the TnT, its distinctiveness and simplicity grab you in a positive way right from the get go.



Add a splash of Cranberry juice for variety

I had forgotten this classic over the years, what with my driving passion for Bushmill’s, but Mike mentioned it in passing one afternoon and I decided to add it to our drink list for game day. Of course it was a success, so much so that the TnT has become Mike’s main cocktail when we all get together switching only occasionally to a Dark and Stormy for variety. Even Tuna, who has an unending thirst for dark rum, will have a Tanqueray or two when the fancy strikes him.  If you are looking for an easy to pour, light cocktail that tastes wonderful you can’t go wrong with the classic; Tanqueray and Tonic.

Cheers
AL