As a bartender, I have had the pleasure of serving a variety of alcoholic beverages to my customers. But when it comes to cocktails, there is one combination that always stands out: gin and seltzer.
This classic duo has been a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts for years, and for good reason. The crisp and refreshing taste of seltzer perfectly complements the botanical flavors of gin, resulting in a light and easy-to-sip cocktail that's perfect for any occasion.
But not all gin and seltzer cocktails are created equal. Some are too sweet, while others lack flavor. That's why I've taken it upon myself to scour the internet and test out various recipes to find the best gin and seltzer cocktails out there.
From simple and classic to more complex and adventurous, I've tried them all and narrowed down my top picks.
Whether you're a gin lover or just looking for a new cocktail to try, these recipes are sure to impress.
So sit back, relax, and let's explore the world of gin and seltzer cocktails together.
1. Classic Gin Rickey
The Classic Gin Rickey is a refreshing and light cocktail that is perfect for summer. It is a combination of gin, freshly squeezed lime juice, and carbonated water, without any added sugar or liqueurs.
The lack of sugar makes it a healthier option compared to other gin cocktails, especially the Gin and Tonic. The cocktail is easy to make and can be garnished with herbs or fruits to add a twist. If you are a gin lover looking for a light and refreshing cocktail, the Classic Gin Rickey is definitely worth a try.
2. Watermelon Gin Fizz With Mint
The Watermelon Gin Fizz with Mint is a perfect summer cocktail that combines the refreshing taste of watermelon with floral gin, lime, and seltzer. The pureed watermelon is muddled with fresh mint, creating a sweet and herbaceous flavor.
The addition of lime-flavored seltzer adds a slight fizz to the drink, making it perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. This cocktail is easy to make and is a great way to use up fresh watermelon. If you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful gin and seltzer cocktail, the Watermelon Gin Fizz with Mint is definitely worth trying.
3. Gin Rickey
The Gin Rickey is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with just four ingredients, this refreshing drink is perfect for those who love the taste of gin and lime. The fizz from the seltzer water adds a nice touch to this cocktail, making it a great choice for a summer day.
While the classic recipe calls for little to no sweetener, a touch of pure maple syrup can really make the lime juice pop. Overall, the Gin Rickey is a must-try for any gin lover looking for a simple yet delicious cocktail.
4. Rosemary Gin Fizz
The Rosemary Gin Fizz is a refreshing and complex cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a sugar-free version of the classic gin fizz, using maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of refined sugar. The addition of fresh rosemary gives it a woodsy flavor that pairs perfectly with the juniper notes of the gin.
The bubbles from the seltzer water provide a nice texture to the drink, making it a perfect summer sipper. The rosemary syrup is easy to make and can be used in different ways, like over pancakes or waffles, tea, or salad dressing. Whether you're a gin lover or not, this cocktail is sure to impress with its delicious taste and unique flavor profile.
5. Wild Berry Energy Cocktail
The Wild Berry Energy Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh berries, gin, and Hiball sparkling energy water, this cocktail provides a little boost of energy without any added sugar. The juniper-based gin used in this cocktail is also filled with antioxidants, making it a healthier option compared to other cocktails.
The red and blue berries make it a perfect drink for a 4th of July party, while its sweet and tangy taste makes it great for a romantic Valentine's Day dinner or an outdoor summer party. Overall, the Wild Berry Energy Cocktail is a delicious and healthy cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
6. Elderflower Gin Fizz
The Elderflower Gin Fizz is a refreshing and floral cocktail that is perfect for springtime. With the tangy sweetness of elderflower liqueur and the zesty flavors of gin and lemon, this cocktail is a delightful sip on a hot afternoon. The use of butterfly pea-infused gin like Empress adds a beautiful purple hue to the drink, making it a stunning addition to any get-together.
The foam from the egg whites and seltzer creates a tall and impressive presentation that is sure to impress your guests. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Elderflower Gin Fizz is definitely worth a try.
7. Adult Cherry Limeade
The Adult Cherry Limeade is a refreshing and nostalgic cocktail that combines fresh cherries, lime, and gin for a fruity and slightly tart flavor.
The use of a London dry gin allows the fruit to shine through and adds the "adult" touch to this drink. This cocktail is perfect for anyone looking for a refreshing and fruity drink with a touch of gin.
8. Tom Collins Cocktail
The Tom Collins Cocktail is a classic gin and seltzer drink that has been around for over a century. It's a refreshing and bubbly drink made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and seltzer.
The combination of these simple ingredients creates a light and easy-to-drink cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a newbie looking to try something new, the Tom Collins is a must-try cocktail that is sure to please.
9. Cucumber Melon Gin Spritzers
The Cucumber Melon Gin Spritzers are a refreshing summer cocktail made with cantaloupe simple syrup, fresh mint, sliced cucumber, gin, and soda water. The cantaloupe-infused simple syrup gives it a unique flavor that is light and summery.
The cocktail is perfect for entertaining, barbecues, or just relaxing. The melon balls make it extra pretty, and using cucumber-flavored seltzer adds more fresh cucumber-y goodness to the drink. Get ready for the most refreshing summer cocktail!
10. Lime Soda
The Lime Soda is a refreshing gin and seltzer cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. It has a tangy lime flavor and a light fizz that makes it perfect for sipping on a hot day.
The combination of gin and seltzer makes it a light and refreshing drink that is not too sweet. It's easy to make and perfect for enjoying with friends or serving at a party.
11. Citrus Holiday Punch
The Citrus Holiday Punch is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that's perfect for holiday parties. Made with grapefruit, oranges, Prosecco, gin, and hard seltzer, this punch is light, crisp, and perfectly sweetened with simple syrup.
What sets this cocktail apart is the use of three different types of alcohol, which gives it an extra fizz, spike, and flavor. The addition of an ice ring keeps the punch super cold without diluting the sweetness. If you're looking for a festive drink that's quick to make and affordable, the Citrus Holiday Punch is a must-try.
12. French 75
French 75 is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. It is a refreshing and bubbly drink that combines gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, topped with sparkling wine. The cocktail is named after a French 75-millimeter field gun used in World War I, which was known for its powerful kick.
Similarly, the cocktail has a kick of its own, thanks to the gin and sparkling wine combination. It is a perfect drink for any occasion, whether it's a fancy dinner party or a casual get-together with friends. The French 75 is a must-try for anyone who loves gin and seltzer cocktails.
13. Rose Spritzer
The Rose Spritzer is a refreshing and delicious cocktail that combines the sweetness of strawberry syrup with the mild bitterness of gin. Made with rose wine and seltzer, this pink cocktail is perfect for any occasion, from casual parties to girls' nights or Valentine's Day.
The pink sprinkle rim adds a beautiful visual touch to the drink, making it a fun and festive option for any celebration. If you're looking for a light and refreshing cocktail that's easy to make and sure to impress, the Rose Spritzer is definitely worth trying.
14. Strawberry Shrub Cocktail
The Strawberry Shrub Cocktail is a unique and refreshing take on a classic gin and seltzer drink. Made with homemade strawberry shrub syrup, this cocktail has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the dry gin and bubbly seltzer water.
The shrub syrup is made by mixing fresh strawberries with sugar and vinegar, resulting in a fruity vinegar that adds a unique twist to the cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting, while still enjoying the classic flavors of gin and seltzer. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!
15. Pomegranate and Gin Cocktail
The Pomegranate and Gin Cocktail is a sweet and tangy winter drink that is perfect for Valentine's or Galentine's day. The combination of homemade pomegranate simple syrup, gin, lemon, and a splash of seltzer creates a refreshing and flavorful cocktail.
The pomegranate syrup adds a unique twist to the classic gin and seltzer cocktail, making it a must-try for anyone looking to switch up their usual drink order. With its beautiful pink color, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for any occasion. Overall, the Pomegranate and Gin Cocktail is a delightful and flavorful drink that is sure to impress.
