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Tonic water vs soda water: which is better for gin?

When it comes to gin mixers, tonic water and soda water are two of the most popular picks. Is one better than the other?

 

The true answer comes down to whichever you prefer. Tonic water adds a crisp bitterness that enhances gin’s botanicals, while soda water is neutral, letting the spirit’s flavour shine through. 

 

Whether you’re after a classic G&T or a lighter, refreshing alternative, knowing the differences can help you mix your perfect drink.

What’s the difference between tonic water and soda water?

Both tonic water and soda water are fizzy, but their flavours set them apart. Soda water is simply carbonated spring water, meaning it has a clean, neutral taste. It’s then mixed with a very small amount of salt and bicarbonate (a bit like bicarbonate of soda) which helps keep the water bubbly when spirits are added.

 

Tonic water, on the other hand, contains quinine and sweetener, giving it a distinct bittersweet flavour.

 

Tonic water’s origins trace back to the 19th century when British officers in India mixed quinine with gin to make it more palatable, creating the iconic gin and tonic. If you want to dive deeper into the history, check out this blog on the history of the gin and tonic.

 

Other types of carbonated water

Beyond tonic and soda water, there are other types of fizzy mixers that can change the way gin tastes. Here are the most popular:

 

  • Sparkling water – Naturally carbonated or artificially fizzy, but with no added minerals or flavours. Check out our recipe for Gin and Sparkling Water.
  • Seltzer water – Very similar to sparkling water however without any added minerals, most commonly found in the US.
  • Club soda – An artificially made carbonated water with added minerals like sodium bicarbonate or potassium sulfate.

 

These carbonated waters are all relatively similar, especially when you add soda water into the mix. The most unique of the pack is tonic water due to its quinine content.

 

Tonic water vs soda water for gin

Both tonic and soda water are a great mixer for gin, but they bring out different characteristics in the spirit. So depending on the taste and final drink you’re after, you might have a preference.

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Gin and tonic

A gin and tonic is as classic as it gets. This famous mixer is centuries old and still a popular order to date, thanks to its delicious simplicity. 

 

The tonic water complements the gin’s botanicals with a hint of bitterness and sweetness. And when it comes to the bold juniper and bright citrus notes of Beefeater London Dry Gin, the quinine taste enhances the gin’s dry, crisp finish. 

 

It’s a classic combination that’s stood the test of time. Try it for yourself with our Gin and Tonic recipe.

 

Pink Strawberry Gin Spritz cocktail recipe - Beefeater Gin

Tonic is also used in a variety of gin cocktails to add a slight bitter fizzy serve. Here’s some of our favourites:

Long Negroni

The Long Negroni is a refreshing twist on the traditional Negroni. The addition of tonic water lengthens the drink while keeping the bitter-sweet balance intact.

Long Martini

Another highball twist on a classic gin cocktail. The Long Martini is a lighter take on a dry martini, blending Beefeater Gin with dry vermouth and tonic for a crisp, botanical-forward sip.

Pink Gin Spritz

Beefeater Pink Gin mixes with tonic water and a splash of prosecco in a Pink Gin Spritz. Creating a bright, bubbly serve that highlights the gin’s natural strawberry flavours.

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Gin and soda

Soda water is all about keeping things light. Since it has no added flavours, it allows the gin’s botanicals to take centre stage. For us that means that the bright citrus and herbal notes of our London Dry Gin remain crisp and clean, making it a great option for those who prefer a more delicate serve. 

 

Give our Gin and Soda recipe a whirl or mix up your favourite gin cocktails with soda water.

 

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Gin Fizz

A Gin Fizz is the ultimate gin and soda cocktail. Beefeater Gin mixes with lemon juice, sugar syrup and soda water for a perfectly balanced, refreshing drink.

 

Tom Collins

Another timeless serve, the Tom Collins is a much loved highball where soda water lengthens the citrusy, slightly sweet combination of gin, lemon juice and sugar syrup. Serve with a cherry for a classic look.

 

Pomegranate Gin Fizz

The Pomegranate Gin Fizz is a summery take on the classic Gin Fizz – a great way to mix things up with extra sweet, fruity flavour.

Can you substitute tonic water for soda water?

You can, but it will completely change the drink. Replacing tonic with soda removes the bitterness, resulting in a lighter, less complex flavour. On the other hand, swapping soda for tonic makes a cocktail more aromatic. If you want a closer match, opt for sparkling water or seltzer instead of soda.

 

For more ways to experiment with G&T flavours, check out our favourite variations of a gin and tonic.

 

Tonic vs soda water: which is better?

There’s no right answer—it all depends on your taste. If you love a bold, slightly bitter edge, tonic water is your go-to. If you prefer a lighter, more refreshing serve that lets the gin shine, soda water is the way forward. Either way, Beefeater Gin’s carefully picked botanicals makes it the perfect base for both.

 

Discover more gin mixers to try with Beefeater as well as our guide on how to order a G&T to guarantee a great drink.

 

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