THE 7 CLASSIC GIN COCKTAILS EVERY GIN LOVER SHOULD KNOW
London Dry gin sits at the heart of the world’s most iconic cocktails. Crisp, juniper-forward and endlessly versatile, it shines brightest in classic serves that allow its botanicals to speak. These seven timeless gin cocktails are essential knowledge for any gin lover — whether you’re mixing at home or ordering with confidence.
1. Gin & Tonic
The Gin & Tonic is the ultimate expression of simplicity: clean, refreshing and endlessly adaptable. The bitterness of tonic water lifts the botanicals of the gin, creating a drink that feels as good on a summer afternoon as it does before dinner.
Recommended gins from COVE 27: Scapegrace Classic Gin, Bluff London Dry Gin, Mermaid Small Batch Dry Gin, Isle of Harris Gin
Make: 50ml gin, plenty of ice, top with premium tonic water.
Serve: Highball glass, lime or lemon garnish.
2. Dry Martini
The Dry Martini is cocktail minimalism at its finest — sleek, powerful and unapologetically spirit-forward. With just gin and a whisper of dry vermouth, this is a drink that rewards quality ingredients and careful balance.
Recommended gins from COVE 27: Island Original Gin, 4 BARS Gin Clear Day, Tanqueray No. 10 Gin
Make: Stir 60ml gin with 10ml dry vermouth over ice, strain.
Serve: Chilled martini glass, lemon twist or olive.
3. Negroni
Bold, bittersweet and beautifully balanced, the Negroni is a true aperitif classic. Equal parts gin, Campari and sweet vermouth create a ruby-red cocktail with depth, warmth and unmistakable Italian flair.
Recommended gins from COVE 27: Four Pillars Rare Dry Gin, Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin, Botanist Dry Gin
Make: Stir equal parts gin, Campari and sweet vermouth over ice.
Serve: Rocks glass over ice, orange peel.
4. Tom Collins
Light, citrusy and gently effervescent, the Tom Collins is essentially a grown-up gin lemonade. Bright lemon juice and soda water make this an easy-drinking classic, perfect for warm afternoons and relaxed gatherings.
Recommended gins from COVE 27: Lind & Lime London Dry Gin, Little Biddy Zest Gin, Citadelle Original Gin, Bluff London Dry Gin
Make: Shake gin, fresh lemon juice and sugar syrup, top with soda.
Serve: Tall glass, lemon slice.
5. Gimlet
The Gimlet is sharp, bracing and beautifully direct. With just gin and lime, it delivers instant refreshment and a clean, focused flavour profile that showcases the quality of the spirit.
Recommended gins from COVE 27: Dancing Sands Dry Gin, Lind & Lime London Dry Gin, Dingle Original Gin
Make: Shake gin, fresh lime juice and sugar syrup.
Serve: Coupe or martini glass, lime garnish.
6. French 75
Elegant and celebratory, the French 75 pairs gin with lemon and Champagne for a drink that feels festive yet refined. Bright, dry and gently sparkling, it’s ideal for brunches, celebrations and special occasions.
Recommended gins from COVE 27: Hayman's London Dry Gin, Sipsmith London Dry Gin, No.3 London Dry Gin
Make: Shake gin, lemon juice and sugar syrup, top with Champagne.
Serve: Champagne flute, lemon twist.
7. Bee’s Knees
A Prohibition-era favourite, the Bee’s Knees balances gin with fresh lemon and honey syrup for a smooth, softly sweet cocktail. Approachable and comforting, it’s a wonderful introduction for those new to classic gin drinks.
Recommended gins from COVE 27: Cardrona ‘The Source’ Gin, The Botanist Islay Dry Gin, No.3 London Dry Gin, Gin Mare 'Capri' Limited Edition Gin
Make: Shake gin, lemon juice and honey syrup.
Serve: Coupe glass, lemon peel.
Final Sip
From the refreshing simplicity of a Gin & Tonic to the elegance of a Dry Martini or French 75, these classics reveal why gin remains one of the world’s most beloved spirits. Quality gin, fresh citrus and proper glassware make all the difference.
Curious to explore these styles? Our curated gin collection makes it easy.