In the Mix

While a classic G&T is still top dog, it's time to get adventurous with gin. From a twist of CITRUS to a dash of CORDIAL and an array of ACCOUTREMENTS, here are tasty ways to jazz up your favourite.

- JO BUITENDACH

• WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY

We asked the gurus at Mossel Bay gin distillery Cape Saint Blaize for tips to boost your gin experience:

• In terms of glassware, a Collins glass is better than a gin goblet - the tendency to overfill a goblet with ice and tonic results in a diluted G&T.

• Avoid overfilling the beverage with tonic water - use a one-part gin/three-parts tonic ratio for the best flavour.

• Keep it simple with garnish - for example, only add a few slices of strawberry, or a few blueberries or raspberries.

• When prepping a citrus garnish, be sure to use only the thin zest of the outer flesh, and not a slice or wedge. The white part of citrus peel adds bitterness to your drink.

• Flame the orange zest over the glass before dropping it in.

Cape Saint Blaze has a fantastic recipe on its website for an easy Old Fashioned gin cocktail (as opposed to the usual whisky), which includes a cinnamon-sugar syrup and Angostura bitters. You can also try to make the more complex Floristic Bramble with blackcurrant syrup and cranberry juice.