With more and more local distilleries popping up all over the place, gin drinks are the latest trend. And while there’s nothing wrong with a good old fashioned gin and tonic, there are plenty of ways to utilize the botanical profiles of gin that go well beyond G&Ts. Gin is very versatile. The key to a good gin forward cocktail is using a good quality gin. Flavor can vary significantly between different brands of gin, so keep that in mind and avoid cutting corners when purchasing gin – aim for a mid-price range gin or something from a local distillery if you’re looking to add some local flavor to your cocktails.

Here for your gin tasting pleasure are a few fantastic gin cocktails worth trying.Here for your gin tasting pleasure are a few fantastic gin cocktails worth trying.

Mrs. 404

If you’re looking for a drink that’s tangy and sweet, this gin-based version of Mr. 404 (made with vodka) is a delightful treat!
Ingredients:
1.5 oz Gin
.75 oz Lemon Juice
.75 oz St. Germain
.5 oz Aperol
.5 oz Simple Syrup
Directions: Add gin, lemon juice, St. Germain, Aperol, and Syrup to a cocktail shaker. Shake and strain into a coupe glass.

Bramble

This delightful gin cocktail comes with a splash of blackberry flavor.
Ingredients:
1 oz Gin
.5 oz Simple Syrup
.5 oz Lemon Juice
.5 oz Crème de Mure
Berries or lemon zest, for garnish
Directions: Add gin, lemon juice, and sugar syrup to a cocktail shaker and shake. Pour over ice and add the creme de mure. Add garnish and serve. 

French 75

This classic gin cocktail incorporates some bubbly to give it its characteristic fizz.
Ingredients:
1.5 oz Gin
.75 oz Orange Liqueur
.75 oz Lemon Juice
.5 oz Simple Syrup
3 oz Champagne
Directions: Add gin, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and Syrup to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake for 15 seconds to chill the mixture. Strain the liquid into a glass or champagne flute and serve.

Cranberry in London

For another champagne and gin variation, Cranberry in London provides a bit of a twist. This cocktail requires a bit of extra preparation but is well worth the effort.
Ingredients:
1 oz Bombay Sapphire Gin
.075 oz Cranberry Hibiscus Syrup*
.5 oz Lemon Juice
3 oz Brut Champagne
Directions: Add gin, Syrup, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain the liquid into a chilled glass. You can top it with champagne.
*To create the Cranberry Hibiscus Syrup used in this recipe, add 17 oz. of water, 2 cups of sugar, 3 cups of Hibiscus flowers, and 2 cups of sliced cranberries to a pan on the stove. Heat ingredients over medium heat for 12 minutes while stirring. Remove from heat and strain solids. Place in the refrigerator to chill before using.

These are just a few of the delicious and refreshing cocktail recipes that incorporate gin. So next time you’re hunting for the perfect cocktail recipes for a party, consider these tasty concoctions.