The best aperitif gin cocktails for before dinner drinks

A cocktail before dinner is the best way to start an evening. But make it with gin, and you’ve got yourself a winner. Aperitifs, as they’re known, are traditionally drunk to prepare the palate for the delicious meal that’s to come. But they’re also a great way to welcome guests and kick off the night.

 

Aperitifs are usually light and dry, so naturally, many of the best are made with gin. Favorites include gin-based classics such as the Martini and Negroni, which stimulate the appetite with a slightly bitter taste. But there’s also plenty of modern gin cocktails to consider.

 

Here, we share the best aperitif gin cocktails to serve next time you’re cooking. 

 

ALL GIN COCKTAILS
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gin and tonic

It doesn’t get more classic and simple than the Gin and Tonic. This unbeatable mixer is the best way to drink Beefeater London Dry Gin. If you want a cocktail that you definitely can’t get wrong, start here. All you need is some quality tonic water, plenty of ice and citrus wheels to garnish.

 

RECIPE HERE
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PINK FRENCH 75

Upgrade a classic glass of fizz to a Pink French 75. This sweet twist on the original recipe creates a light, fruity drink that’s sure to impress. Served in a flute with a raspberry garnish, it looks as good as it tastes.

 

RECIPE HERE
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negroni

The Negroni is the original aperitif. The bitter-sweet mix of Campari, sweet vermouth and dry gin was created to stimulate the senses and has since become a must-try cocktail for all gin lovers. The equal parts ratio means it’s easy to make, and you don’t even need a cocktail shaker. Just stir in the glass and garnish with an orange twist. Voila!

 

RECIPE HERE
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white negroni

If you like to put your own spin on a cocktail, try the White Negroni. This light and refreshing take on the classic recipe is a little less bitter and a lot more zesty. Made with Beefeater gin, Lillet Blanc, Suze and Italicus, it’s a citrus-inspired serve that will go down a storm.

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MARTINI

The Martini is an iconic aperitif. Light, simple and elegant, it’s the perfect drink to serve guests and a good one to fall back on if you forget to stock the bar. Make it dry or ask guests how they like their Martini made. There’s plenty of Martini variations to choose from, whether it be perfect, sweet or dirty. And being able to make them will win you serious hosting points.

 

RECIPE HERE
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GIN SPRITZ

Put gin in the spotlight with a classic Gin Spritz. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for any moment, including pre-dinner drinks. Beefeater 24 blends beautifully with Lillet Blanc and a top of champagne or soda water to highlight the gin’s botanical notes.

 

RECIPE HERE
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POMEGRANATE GIN FIZZ

Make your aperitif a fun and fruity serve with this pomegranate gin cocktail. The Collins-style base is reinvented with pomegranate juice and a sprinkling of seeds to create a pink drink your guests will love.

 

RECIPE HERE

ZESTY GIN & TONIC

A simple way to mix up a classic G&T aperitif is by adding different juices or syrups in with your gin and tonic. Why not try a Gin and Tonic with lemon? It’s sharp, refreshing and sweet, with a surprising burst of citrus that will stimulate your appetite!

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GIN BASIL SMASH

If you like your drinks a little different, try the Gin Basil Smash. This fresh, icy drink mixes the best of London’s ingredients with Italian flair, best served before dinner.  Lemon, olive oil and fresh basil create a silky finish that’s easy to achieve.

 

RECIPE HERE

PINK GIN SPRITZ

Welcome guests with a pretty, pink drink they’ll love. The Pink Gin Spritz is a delicious strawberry twist on a gin spritzer that complements any meal. Tonic and Prosecco are mixed with Pink Gin, plus a splash of elderflower cordial for a hit of floral sweetness.

 

RECIPE HERE

looking for more cocktails?

Looking for more cocktails to serve next time you’re hosting? Check out our favorite gin mixers or discover our big batch gin cocktails to make for a crowd.

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Signature Serves

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