José Andrés’ Mexican Gin & Tonic
Contributed by on Aug 14, 2015
Zero readers love this post.
I have a somewhat mandatory tradition upon landing in Las Vegas of heading immediately to Chef José Andrés’ epic Chinese & Mexican food mecca China Poblano at the Cosmopolitan. A big boozy lunch with friends before hitting the pools is my idea of a perfect start to the weekend. On one recent trip, I was introduced to the cocktail perfection that is José Andrés’ Mexican Gin & Tonic. It seems simple enough on paper: Bombay Sapphire, some tonic water, a few garnishes and a splash of St. Germain. But don’t be fooled by the seemingly basic ingredient list… this is without a doubt the best G & T I’ve ever had. Not only is the drink impossibly beautiful and delicate, it has an intoxicating aroma – thanks to those gorgeous botanical garnishes – that grabs you as soon as the drink hits the table. Served in a gorgeous stemless wine tumbler, each sip is perfectly cool and effervescent, with just the right amount of sweet floral kick from the elderflower liqueur. Next time you’re in Vegas, it’s an absolute must. Until then, here’s my take on recreating the drink at home.
Makes 1 drink.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. Bombay Sapphire Gin – Although any citrusy Western-style Gin would be wonderful as well
- 1 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
- 4 oz Fever Tree Tonic Water
- Fresh Orange Peel
- Small Sprig of Cilantro
- 1 Whole Coriander Seed
- 1 Fresh Marigold (Calendula) edible flower – Special thanks to Specialty Produce for these beauties!
- 1 Large Whiskey cube- or sphere-shaped ice mold – I like keep a couple of these in my freezer for such occasions
Directions:
- Place ice cube/sphere in a large stemless wine glass or DOF
- Gently pour in Gin, St. Germain and top with tonic water
- Quickly and carefully arrange botanicals – orange twist, cilantro, coriander seed, and marigold – in the drink, giving the orange twist and cilantro a little smack in your hands beforehand to release the oils.
- Give it a gentle swirl and enjoy!
P.S. The ‘When Pigs Fly’ steamed buns, Cochinita Taco and Twenty-Vegetable Fried Rice are also not to be missed! 
P.P.S. Photos by Megan of Shortography!
The post José Andrés’ Mexican Gin & Tonic appeared first on Distillerista.
