Gin and lemon are two ingredients that have been paired together for centuries. The bright and zesty flavor of lemon perfectly complements the botanical notes of gin, creating a refreshing and well-balanced cocktail.
But with so many gin and lemon cocktail recipes out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together a comprehensive guide to the best gin and lemon cocktails.
First, let's talk about gin. This spirit is made from a variety of botanicals, including juniper berries, coriander, and citrus peels.
The combination of these ingredients gives gin its signature flavor profile, which can range from floral and herbaceous to spicy and bold. When paired with lemon, gin's complex flavors are elevated, creating a cocktail that is both refreshing and complex.
Now, let's talk about lemon. This citrus fruit is a classic cocktail ingredient, known for its bright and tangy flavor.
Lemon juice is often used to balance out the sweetness of other ingredients, such as sugar or fruit juices. When combined with gin, lemon adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the botanical notes of the spirit.
So, whether you're a gin lover looking to try something new or a cocktail enthusiast searching for the perfect summer sipper, our guide to the best gin and lemon cocktails has got you covered.
From classic recipes like the Gin Sour to modern twists like the Lemon Basil Gimlet, we've rounded up the most delicious and refreshing gin and lemon cocktails out there. So, grab your shaker and let's get mixing!
1. Gordon's Sicilian Lemon and Tonic
Gordon's Sicilian Lemon and Tonic is a refreshing and citrusy take on the classic Gin and Tonic. Made with Gordon's Gin and the best lemons from Sicily, this cocktail is perfect for summer sipping.
The addition of tonic water gives it a slight bitterness that balances out the sweetness of the lemon, making it a well-rounded drink. Whether you prefer it in a traditional highball glass or a fun balloon glass, this cocktail is sure to impress. Give it a try and transport yourself to the Mediterranean with every sip.
2. Lemon Basil Gin and Tonic
The Lemon Basil Gin and Tonic is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic gin and tonic. The combination of fresh basil and bright citrus flavors from the lemon make for a perfect summer drink. This cocktail is perfect for a crowd or just for one, and is sure to impress your guests with its herby, tart, and sweet taste.
The use of fresh basil from the garden adds a touch of freshness to the drink, making it perfect for a hot summer day. If you're looking for a fun and refreshing summer cocktail, the Lemon Basil Gin and Tonic is definitely worth a try.
3. Lemon-Chamomile Gin Fizz
The Lemon-Chamomile Gin Fizz is a delightful cocktail that combines the refreshing taste of lemon with the subtle floral notes of chamomile. This cocktail is perfect for those who prefer a light and feminine drink with a touch of fizz. The recipe calls for a unique gin from You & Yours distillery in San Diego, which is known for its outstanding selection of gins that are not too heavy on juniper.
The cocktail is easy to make and is sure to impress your guests at any NYE soirée. The foam that rises to the top after adding the sparkling wine adds an element of fun to the drink. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and unique gin and lemon cocktail.
4. Lemonade Gin Mojito
The Lemonade Gin Mojito is a refreshing twist on the classic Cuban cocktail, the mojito. This cocktail replaces the traditional rum with gin and uses lemonade instead of lime juice for a sweet and tangy flavor.
The mint adds a refreshing touch to this cocktail, making it perfect for a hot summer day. This cocktail is easy to make and can be served in a pitcher for parties. If you're a fan of mojitos, you'll love this gin version. Give it a try and let your taste buds be the judge!
5. Lemon and Honey Gin & Tonic
The Lemon and Honey Gin & Tonic is a refreshing twist on the classic Gin and Tonic cocktail. The addition of lemon cordial and honey gives this cocktail a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the crisp taste of gin.
This cocktail is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. It can also be easily turned into a mocktail by omitting the gin. If you're a fan of gin-based cocktails, the Lemon and Honey Gin & Tonic is definitely worth a try.
6. Blueberry Gin Sour Cocktail
The Blueberry Gin Sour Cocktail is a refreshing and balanced cocktail that perfectly combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tartness of lemon. The addition of gin adds a subtle botanical flavor that complements the fruity notes.
The cocktail is garnished with blueberries and lemon peel, making it visually appealing as well. It's perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and sour flavor profile. If you're looking for a unique and delicious gin cocktail, the Blueberry Gin Sour is definitely worth trying.
7. Lemon Lavender Gin Spritz
The Lemon Lavender Gin Spritz is a refreshing and light cocktail that is perfect for spring and summer months. The cocktail is made with a lavender-infused simple syrup, gin, and lemonade, which is shaken and poured over ice. The addition of a blue butterfly pea mixture on top adds a fun and whimsical touch to the cocktail.
The gin used in the cocktail is floral and light, making it a great choice for those who are not fans of the traditional pine needle taste of gin. Overall, the Lemon Lavender Gin Spritz is a delicious and unique cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
8. Limoncello Gin Collins
The Limoncello Gin Collins is a refreshing and fizzy cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. This twist on a classic Tom Collins adds limoncello to the mix, giving it a prominent lemon flavor that is balanced out by a minty simple syrup.
The drink is topped off with club soda and garnished with fresh mint and lemon, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you're a fan of gin or just looking for a new cocktail to try, the Limoncello Gin Collins is a must-try.
9. Lemon Rosemary Gin Fizz
The Lemon Rosemary Gin Fizz is a refreshing and aromatic cocktail that combines the zingy flavors of lemon with the fragrant pine aroma of fresh rosemary.
This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, and its light and fizzy texture make it an ideal summer drink. If you're a fan of gin and lemon cocktails, then the Lemon Rosemary Gin Fizz is definitely worth trying.
10. Blueberry Lemon and Cucumber Gin Mojitos
Looking for a refreshing and unique twist on the classic mojito? Look no further than the Blueberry Lemon and Cucumber Gin Mojitos. This cocktail combines the sweetness of blueberries with the refreshing taste of cucumber and mint, all balanced out with the tartness of lemon and the kick of gin.
The use of a blueberry simple syrup made with honey instead of sugar adds a healthier touch to the drink. The addition of edible flowers, such as pansies, not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the overall presentation of the cocktail. This drink is perfect for those looking for a summer sipper that's both delicious and Instagram-worthy.
11. Tom Collins
The Tom Collins is a classic gin and lemon cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda, this refreshing cocktail is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The name of the cocktail comes from a popular practical joke in the late 1800s, and it has been a staple in the cocktail world ever since.
The sweetness of the simple syrup balances out the tartness of the lemon juice, while the gin adds a nice kick. If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, the Tom Collins is definitely worth a try.
12. Raspberry Lemonade Cocktail
The Raspberry Lemonade Cocktail is a refreshing and vibrant drink that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with IL Tramonto Limoncello, gin, raspberries, lemon juice, simple syrup, and sparkling water, this cocktail is a burst of citrusy flavors with a hint of sweetness.
The combination of fresh raspberries and lemon juice creates a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a perfect drink for those who love a little bit of both. The IL Tramonto Limoncello adds a unique twist to the cocktail, giving it a distinct Italian flair. Overall, the Raspberry Lemonade Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a refreshing and flavorful drink.
13. Bees Knees Cocktail
The Bees Knees Cocktail is a classic gin and lemon cocktail that is perfect for summer sipping. Made with lemon, honey, and gin, this cocktail is easy to make and incredibly delicious. Served in a coupe glass, it's a small drink that is perfect for sipping before dinner.
The cocktail has a rich history, dating back to the Prohibition Era, and was named after the slang term for "the best". The recipe calls for any dry gin, but a citrus-forward gin like Tangueray Rangpur is recommended. If you love lemon cocktails, the Bees Knees Cocktail is a must-try.
14. Gin and Bitters Cocktail
The Gin and Bitters Cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic Gin and Tonic. This cocktail uses bitters to enhance the flavor of your choice of garnish, creating a unique and personalized drink. Bitters are a blend of intense flavors in a liquor base, and the possibilities for flavor combinations are endless.
From fruity flavors like lemon, peach, and orange to herbal bitters like mint, cinnamon, and cardamom, you can create a Gin and Bitters Cocktail that perfectly suits your taste. If you're a fan of apple in your gin, you might also want to try the Cider and Gin recipe. The Gin and Bitters Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their gin drinking experience.
15. Gin Fizz
Gin Fizz is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century and is still enjoyed today. Made with gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar syrup, and topped with soda water, this cocktail is a refreshing and frothy drink that is perfect for any occasion.
Originally, the cocktail did not have egg whites, but in modern times, they have been added to give the drink a smoother mouthfeel and a foamy top. Gin Fizz was also known as a hangover cure from the late 19th century to the mid-2000s, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a good drink. If you're looking for a classic cocktail with a refreshing twist, Gin Fizz is definitely worth trying.
16. Blueberry Thyme Gin Fizz
Introducing the Blueberry Thyme Gin Fizz, a refreshing and simple cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a great twist on the classic gin and lemon cocktail, with the addition of blueberries and thyme, giving it a unique and delicious flavor. The blueberries add a sweet and fruity taste, while the thyme adds a subtle herbaceous note.
The fizz comes from the club soda, which gives the cocktail a light and refreshing finish. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting with their gin, and it's sure to impress your guests at any gathering. So, why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious it is?
17. Lemon Basil Gin Fizz
The Lemon Basil Gin Fizz is a refreshing and delightful cocktail that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This cocktail features a blend of quality gin, fresh basil, and ginger, with just the right amount of bubbles. It is a perfect drink to enjoy on a warm summer evening while sitting outside with friends and family.
The Lemon Basil Gin Fizz is easy to make and can be whipped up quickly, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy the company of your loved ones. If you are looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to enjoy this summer, the Lemon Basil Gin Fizz is definitely worth a try.
18. Amalfi Martini Limoncello
The Amalfi Martini Limoncello is a perfect blend of gin and limoncello, with a subtle hint of mint that adds a refreshing twist to this classic cocktail. Limoncello, a lemon-flavored liqueur from Southern Italy, is the star of this cocktail, providing a strong kick that is balanced perfectly by the gin's earthy notes.
The use of Sorrento lemons, known for their size and flavor, adds to the authenticity of this cocktail. The subtle mint flavor adds a touch of freshness and brightness, making this cocktail a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you're a gin lover or a limoncello enthusiast, the Amalfi Martini Limoncello is a must-try cocktail that will leave you wanting more.
19. The French Tart
"The French Tart" is a unique and refreshing gin and grapefruit cocktail that is sure to impress. Made with G'Vine Nouaison gin, a French gin distilled from grapes, this cocktail has a rich fruity body with floral notes and zesty spice. The grapefruit adds a pleasing sweet and sour taste, while the lemon juice provides a tartness that is perfectly balanced with the sweetness from the elderflower liqueur.
A couple drops of Sage Bitters round out the flavors, adding an interesting depth to the drink. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting. Give "The French Tart" a try and experience the wonderful combination of sweet and tart flavors with herbal hints.
20. Meyer Lemon and Rosemary Tom Collins
The Meyer Lemon and Rosemary Tom Collins is a refreshing and seasonal cocktail that perfectly balances the bright taste of Meyer Lemon with a subtle hint of rosemary. This cocktail is perfect for those who love the taste of Meyer Lemons and want to try something new.
The rosemary pairs nicely with the gin, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party or just want to enjoy a drink after a long day. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both festive and refreshing, the Meyer Lemon and Rosemary Tom Collins is definitely worth a try.
21. Gin Sour
The Gin Sour is a classic cocktail that balances sweet and sour flavors with gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. It's easy to make and perfect for showcasing the personality of your favorite gin.
The cocktail is typically served in a martini glass with a lemon peel and luxardo cherries. If you're looking for a refreshing and simple cocktail, the Gin Sour is definitely worth trying.
22. Charred Lemon, Rosemary and Coriander Gin & Tonic
The Charred Lemon, Rosemary and Coriander Gin & Tonic is a unique twist on the classic Gin and Tonic. This cocktail is a perfect balance of flavors, with the charred lemon adding a sweet and sour taste, while the rosemary and coriander seeds enhance the botanical flavors of the gin.
The choice of tonic water is up to you, and the gin can be substituted with your favorite brand. The recipe is easy to follow and the result is a refreshing and delicious cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. If you're looking for a new and exciting Gin and Tonic recipe, the Charred Lemon, Rosemary and Coriander Gin & Tonic is definitely worth a try.
23. Winter Jasmine Cocktail
The Winter Jasmine Cocktail is a refreshing gin cocktail made with London Dry gin, Aperol, Naranja Orange Liqueur, and lemon juice.
It has a perfect balance of sweet and bitter flavors, with a strong juniper taste from the gin and a sweet citrusy flavor from the Aperol and Naranja Orange Liqueur. The lemon juice adds a refreshing tartness that ties all the flavors together. It's a perfect aperitif and a must-try for any gin lover.
24. Pomegranate Gin Cocktail
Looking for a unique and refreshing gin cocktail? Look no further than the Pomegranate Gin Cocktail! This cocktail combines the delicious taste of pomegranate with gin, lemon, and simple syrup to create a vibrant and pretty drink that's perfect for any occasion.
The addition of rosemary sprigs and pomegranate seeds as garnish adds a subtle and delightful flavor to this cocktail. Whether you're a pomegranate lover or just looking for a new gin cocktail to try, the Pomegranate Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a taste!
25. Blueberry Gin and Sage Punch
The Blueberry Gin and Sage Punch is a refreshing and festive cocktail made with gin, lemon, blueberry sage infused simple syrup, and Prosecco.
It's a light and effervescent drink with frozen blueberries, fresh sage, and lemon creating a delicious and refreshing flavor. Perfect for any holiday gathering, it can be served in a large punch bowl or beverage container, making it easy for guests to serve themselves.
26. Lavender Lemon Gin Spritz
The Lavender Lemon Gin Spritz is a perfect cocktail for spring and summer season celebrations. The cocktail features a medley of citrus, floral, and fruit flavors, with the addition of bright juniper notes and luscious lavender essences.
The Monin Lavender Lemon syrup is the star of the show, with deeply soothing citrus and floral notes, framed in a rich lavender essence. Overall, the Lavender Lemon Gin Spritz is a must-try for those who love floral and citrus flavors in their cocktails.
27. Aperol Gin Lemon Twist Cocktail
The Aperol Gin Lemon Twist Cocktail is a refreshing and citrusy twist on the classic Aperol spritz. With a darling pink hue and a thick layer of foam on top, this cocktail is perfect for a girl's night or any occasion. The Aperol adds a subtle bitterness to the drink, while the gin and lemon provide a sweet and tart flavor.
The dry shake technique used in this recipe creates a signature foamy layer that adds a unique texture to the cocktail. Garnished with a lemon twist, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually appealing. If you're looking for a fun and feminine cocktail to try, the Aperol Gin Lemon Twist Cocktail is definitely worth a taste.
28. The Southside
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique twist on a classic gin cocktail, look no further than The Southside. This cocktail combines the neutral flavor of sake with the bright flavors of lemon, lime, and fresh mint to create a drink that is both intriguing and delicious.
The Southside is based on a classic cocktail from the early 1900s, but this version adds a fusion-style twist that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you're a sake aficionado or just looking to try something new, The Southside is a must-try cocktail that will leave you wanting more.
29. Summer Gin and Tonic With Elderflower & Lemon
The Summer Gin and Tonic with Elderflower & Lemon is a refreshing and floral twist on the classic G&T. The combination of elderflower liqueur and a dash of lemon juice adds a zingy and exotic flavor to the drink.
The cocktail is garnished with fresh elderflowers, which add a beautiful floral aroma to the drink. Even if you don't have access to fresh elderflowers, a few rose petals or mint leaves can work as a substitute. This cocktail is perfect for warm summer days and is a must-try for anyone who loves a good G&T.
30. Lemon Lavender Summer Gin Spritz
The Lemon Lavender Summer Gin Spritz is a refreshing and thirst-quenching cocktail that is perfect for hot summer days. Made with Empress Gin, this cocktail has a beautiful purple hue that is sure to impress your guests.
The addition of citrus and sparkling water makes it light and refreshing, while the infused simple syrup adds a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other gin and lemon cocktails. Whether you're sipping it by the pool or serving it at a summer soirée, this cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
31. Sparkling Elderflower Gin Cocktail
The Sparkling Elderflower Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and simple cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with just four ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and is sure to impress your guests. The combination of gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, elderflower liqueur, and a splash of champagne or sparkling Prosecco creates a delicious and refreshing drink that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day or for toasting to the end of 2020.
Garnished with a sprig of rosemary and a slice of lemon, this cocktail is both visually appealing and tasty. If you're looking for a new gin and lemon cocktail recipe to try, the Sparkling Elderflower Gin Cocktail is definitely worth a shot.
32. Lavender French 75 Cocktail
The Lavender French 75 Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic French 75 cocktail. This gin and lemon cocktail is perfect for any garden-themed party or celebration. The addition of lavender adds a fresh and floral twist to the drink, making it a refreshing and delicious cocktail.
The use of Empress 1908 gin gives the drink a beautiful purple color, which turns into a deep pink when mixed with lemon juice. The cocktail is garnished with flowers and lemon slices, making it a visually stunning drink. The Lavender French 75 Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves gin and lemon cocktails with a twist.
