The Aromatic Botanist G&T

I have favorites, but what I want to drink depends on the occasion and the company. Gin and mezcal are usually where I begin. This is one of my gin drinks: a Spanish-style G&T with citrus, star anise, and a little dried fruit.

The glass matters here. A large copa leaves room for an ice sphere, an orange slice, and the botanicals. Before the tonic goes in, I give the gin and botanicals thirty seconds together.

A little pause before the tonic.

Then come the lemon and orange bitters, followed by chilled tonic poured slowly down the inside of the glass. One gentle lift with a spoon, and it is ready.

There is room to change it. A little Italicus can stand in for the star anise and berries. Or I steep a fruity or herbal tea in the gin first. The recipe below keeps those possibilities close.

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