Cold Brew Gin & Tonic: A Bold Twist on a Classic from Florence’s Villa Cora
This Cold Brew Gin & Tonic recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of a sun-soaked afternoon spent at Villa Cora in Florence. The lush gardens, the sound of laughter, and the clinking of glasses created an atmosphere that was both vibrant and serene. It was there that I first tasted this delightful twist on a classic cocktail, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. Each sip transports me back to that magical day, making it a cherished addition to my summer gatherings.
What Makes It Special
This Cold Brew Gin & Tonic stands out for several reasons:
- Unique Flavor Profile: The infusion of cold brew coffee adds a rich, earthy depth that complements the botanicals in gin.
- Refreshing Twist: Perfect for warm days, this drink is both invigorating and satisfying, making it a great choice for outdoor gatherings.
- Visual Appeal: The dark hue of the cold brew against the bright tonic water creates a stunning contrast that is sure to impress your guests.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 12 hours (for cold brew) | Servings: 2
- 4 oz cold brew coffee
- 4 oz gin
- 8 oz tonic water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh lime wedges
- Optional: fresh herbs (like mint or basil) for garnish
Let’s Get Cooking
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Start by preparing your cold brew coffee. Combine coarsely ground coffee with cold water in a jar or pitcher and let it steep in the fridge for 12 hours.
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Once your cold brew is ready, strain it through a coffee filter or fine mesh sieve to remove the grounds.
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In a large glass, fill it halfway with ice cubes.
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Pour in the cold brew coffee and gin, stirring gently to combine.
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Top off with tonic water and garnish with fresh lime wedges and herbs if desired.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, try using a flavored gin, such as cucumber or elderflower, to enhance the drink’s complexity.
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Experiment with different types of cold brew coffee to find your favorite flavor combination.
Perfect Pairings
- Light appetizers like bruschetta or caprese skewers
- Grilled shrimp tacos with a zesty lime crema
- Refreshing fruit salads or sorbets for dessert
FAQs
Q: Can I make this drink ahead of time?
A: While the cold brew can be made in advance, it’s best to mix the gin and tonic just before serving to maintain the fizz.
Q: What if I don’t have cold brew coffee?
A: You can brew a strong cup of coffee and let it cool, but the flavor will differ slightly from traditional cold brew.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Cold Brew Gin & Tonic is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of summer, friendship, and the joy of trying something new. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of that beautiful day in Florence, and I can’t help but smile. It’s a cocktail that invites conversation and laughter, making it perfect for any gathering.
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and share your experiences. I’d love to hear how your Cold Brew Gin & Tonic turns out!
Cold Brew Gin & Tonic: A Bold Twist on a Classic from Florence’s Villa Cora
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 4 oz cold brew coffee
- 3 oz tonic water
- 1 lime, juiced
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Light appetizers like bruschetta or caprese skewers
- Grilled shrimp tacos with a zesty lime crema
- Refreshing fruit salads or sorbets for dessert
Instructions
- In a glass, combine the gin and cold brew coffee.
- Add the lime juice and stir gently.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Top off with tonic water and stir lightly.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving.
Nutrition Information
