She Strengthens

Crafting the Perfect Virgin Gin and Tonic

When it comes to creating a virgin version of the classic gin and tonic, simplicity can be a challenge. With only two main ingredients, it’s essential to capture the spirit’s trademark bitter and herbal flavors. To achieve this, we turned to infusing nonalcoholic white wine with fresh lemon peel and a blend of spices, including juniper, coriander, and anise.

The Magic of Infusion

By combining these ingredients, we created a unique flavor profile that mimics the complexity of gin. The result is a refreshing drink that’s perfect for those who prefer a nonalcoholic option.

Understanding Nonalcoholic Wines

Nonalcoholic or dealcoholized wines are produced by removing the alcohol from fermented grape juice. While they contain a minuscule percentage of alcohol, they’re an excellent alternative for those looking to reduce their intake. These wines can be found at well-stocked liquor stores or online.

Game Plan: Making the Virgin Gin and Tonic

This recipe makes 2 cups of the nonalcoholic white wine infusion, which is enough to make 8 Virgin Gin and Tonics. The infusion can be refrigerated in a covered container for up to 1 month.

Important Notes

Pregnant women should avoid consuming juniper berries, which are used in this recipe. Additionally, this drink can be customized to suit individual tastes by adjusting the amount of tonic water and garnishes.

Virgin Gin and Tonic Recipe

Yield: 1 drink
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: 10 minutes, plus at least 3 hours infusing time
Active Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

For the nonalcoholic white wine infusion:

• 2 tablespoons juniper berries
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 3/4 teaspoon anise seeds
• 1 medium lemon
• 2 cups dealcoholized or nonalcoholic white wine

For the drink:

• Ice
• 1 lemon or lime wedge
• 4 ounces tonic water, chilled

Instructions:

Infusing the Wine:

1. Toast the juniper, coriander, and anise in a small frying pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
2. Remove the mixture to a medium bowl and add the lemon zest.
3. Add the wine and stir to combine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 3 hours or refrigerate for up to 1 day.
4. Strain the infused wine into a pint jar and discard the contents of the strainer. Use the infusion immediately or seal the jar and refrigerate it for up to 1 month.

Assembling the Drink:

1. Chill an Old Fashioned glass in the freezer for 5 minutes.
2. Fill the chilled glass halfway with ice and add 2 ounces of the nonalcoholic white wine infusion.
3. Rub the lemon or lime wedge along the rim of the glass, then squeeze and drop it into the glass.
4. Top with the tonic water, gently stir to incorporate, and serve immediately.

Refrigerate the remaining wine infusion for up to 1 month and enjoy your Virgin Gin and Tonic!