On this very grey Monday morning don’t you wish you were watching one of the sunsets below and sipping on a delicious G and T?
Whether its in your own private plunge pool enjoying the African summer, on the top of a mountain surveying the sunset over the savannah or perched on a safari vehicle watching a herd of elephants drink at the waterhole; this is THE ultimate safari drink. Ever wondered where it came from and why?
The History:
The cocktail was introduced in the early 19th century by the army of the British East India Company in India when where Malaria was a problem. It was around the same time, during the British colonial period that the cocktail was first introduced to South Africa.
The Purpose:
In the 1700s it was discovered that quinine could be used to prevent and treat is, even though the bitter taste was unpleasant. British officers in India took to adding a mixture of water, sugar, lime and gin to the quinine in order to make the drink more palatable. Soldiers in India were already given a gin ration, and the sweet concoction made sense. Since it is no longer used as an antimalarial, tonic water today contains much less quinine, and is much sweeter.
The Description:
A gin and tonic is a highball cocktail made with gin and tonic water poured over lots of ice. It is best garnished with a wedge of lime or lemon and served at sunset in the African bush! The amount of gin varies according to taste. Suggested ratios of gin to tonic are 1:1, 1:2 or if you are feeling brave 1:3!
The Destination:
As shown above the Gin and Tonic is best appreciated when served over an unforgettable African sunset. Contact Iconic Africa soon and we will be sure to organize you the G and T of a lifetime!