Tonic Flavours to Brighten Your Day

Discover the Perfect Tonic Water for Your Favourite Spirits

The world of tonic water has evolved far beyond the basic mixer we once knew. We’re proud to have been pioneers in crafting tonics with wow factor. The Double Dutch mission is to create sophisticated flavour profiles that can transform an ordinary drink into something extraordinary.

Whether you're mixing a classic G&T or experimenting with innovative cocktails, the right tonic flavour can elevate any drink. In this article we look at some of our personal favourite tonic flavours.

The Rise of Artisanal Tonic Waters

Modern tonic waters have become an art form in themselves, with carefully balanced botanicals and innovative flavour combinations. Double Dutch's range exemplifies this trend. Each variety is designed to complement specific spirits whilst being equally enjoyable on its own.

View our Previous article on how we make tonic water.

Meet our Tonic Flavours

Classic Indian Tonic

The cornerstone of any tonic collection is Indian Tonic Water. It brings sophisticated citrus notes and a juniper finish that perfectly complements gin. Our award-winning Indian Tonic offers a soft, rounded profile with subtle hints of grapefruit. This makes it versatile enough to pair with various spirits, from classic gin to blanco tequila.

Elderflower Tonic: A Floral Symphony

For those seeking something more adventurous, elderflower tonic water is the answer. It offers a delightfully floral profile with subtle lemon undertones and orchard notes. Our elderflower tonic works beautifully in creative cocktails like the Elderflower and Cucumber Rickey. This is where it enhances the botanical notes of dry gin whilst adding its own distinctive character.

Skinny Tonic: Full Flavour, Less Sugar

Health-conscious drinkers need not compromise on taste. Our Skinny Tonic Water proves that reduced sugar doesn't have to mean reduced flavour. We added notes of pink grapefruit and juniper berry to complement the signature quinine crispness. This creates a lighter option that adds sparkle to any drink without excessive sweetness.

Creative Cocktail Inspiration

And if you’re wondering how to mix them to best effect - we have some stand-out cocktails for you to try:

The Triple Tokyo

This innovative cocktail showcases how Indian Tonic water can elevate unexpected spirit combinations. Blending Don Julio Blanco tequila with fresh lime, sugar syrup, and tepache. Topped with Indian tonic and grapefruit bitters, this is a sophisticated drink that challenges traditional tonic pairings.

View our full recipe here.

Elderflower 75

A modern twist on the French 75. This elegant cocktail combines gin or vodka with lemon juice and Double Dutch Elderflower Tonic water. The floral notes create a refreshing drink perfect for summer evenings or special occasions.

View St Germain's Elderflower 75 Recipe here.

Skinny Pisco Sour

This lighter version of the South American classic. It demonstrates how our Skinny Tonic can bring new life to traditional cocktails. The combination of pisco, lemon juice, and sugar syrup. Topped with Skinny Tonic and Angostura bitters, offers all the complexity of the original with a lighter finish.

View our Skinny Pisco Sour recipe here.

Why Tonic Water Makes the Perfect Mixer

Tonic water's versatility stems from its unique combination of sweetness and quinine based bitterness. This balance allows it to complement a wide range of spirits whilst adding complexity to simple serves. The carbonation also helps to release aromatic compounds in spirits, enhancing their flavour profile.

How to Enjoy Your Tonic

Temperature Matters

Always serve tonic water well-chilled to maintain carbonation and enhance the drinking experience. Use plenty of fresh ice in your glass to keep the drink cool throughout.

Garnish Wisely

Choose garnishes that complement both the tonic flavour and your chosen spirit. For example sliced apple works beautifully with Calvados and Indian tonic. Fresh elderflowers are perfect for our Elderflower Tonic serves, but if you can’t forage for elder blossom. Try cucumber ribbons as they will enhance the serve's fresh notes.

Experiment with Ratios

While traditional serves suggest specific spirit-to-tonic ratios, don't be afraid to adjust these to suit your taste. Double Dutch craft their Premium tonics to shine in both stronger and lighter serves, or even drunk solo.

Beyond the Gin and Tonic

While gin remains Tonic Water's classic partner, modern tonic flavours pair beautifully with a broad spectrum of spirits. Try Double Dutch’s Elderflower Tonic with white rum. Indian Tonic with tequila, or Skinny tonic with pisco for innovative combinations that might surprise you.

The world of tonic flavours offers endless possibilities for both classic and creative drinks. Whether you're crafting sophisticated cocktails or seeking a refreshing non-alcoholic option. Today's premium tonic waters provide the perfect foundation for memorable drinks.