Gin Blog | Filey Distillery

Does Gin Go with Ginger Ale?

by David Pendleton on Mar 03, 2023

Does Gin Go with Ginger Ale?

This is a highly divisive topic. Drinking gin with ginger ale is a bit like Marmite: you either love it or hate it. Our Filey Signature Gin with its punchy juniper-forward flavour lends itself very well to ginger ale for those who sit in the "love it" camp.

The Perfect Gin and Ginger

To make the perfect gin and ginger ale, start by filling a highball glass with ice. Next, add 50ml of Filey Signature Gin. Gently squeeze a wedge of lime onto the gin before throwing the wedge into the glass and topping it off with ginger ale. Give it a gentle stir.

Use the Best Quality Ginger Ale

When it comes to ginger ale, we recommend using a high-quality ginger ale made with natural root ginger extract and sparkling spring water. The ginger flavour should be pronounced but not overwhelming, and the sweetness should be balanced. There are many great ginger ale brands available, but if you can find it, Franklin's Ginger Ale will bring a subtle warmth with a refreshing twist.

Add a Splash of Honey to Your Gin and Ginger

For those with a sweeter tooth, you may wish to add a dash of honey syrup. Either make your own honey syrup in the same way you would a simple syrup but switch out the sugar for honey, or purchase a commercially available syrup such as Monin, or add a bar spoon of an easier to pour runny honey. But be careful not to overdo it, as too much sweetness can overpower the gin's flavour.

What Food Pairings go with a Gin and Ginger? 

If you're planning a summer party or simply want to enjoy a gin and ginger at home, here are a few food pairings to consider:

  1. Charcuterie: A platter of cured meats, cheeses, and pickles is the perfect accompaniment to a gin and ginger. The salty, savoury flavours of the charcuterie perfectly complement the zesty and sweet flavours of the cocktail.
  2. Seafood: Gin and ginger is a great pairing with seafood. The bright, citrusy flavours of the cocktail work well with the fresh, delicate flavours of seafood. Try pairing your gin and ginger with grilled prawns or a ceviche.
  3. Spicy foods: The spicy kick of ginger ale makes it a great pairing for spicy foods. Try serving your gin and ginger with a spicy Thai curry or some Indian street food.
  4. Citrusy salads: A light, citrusy salad is a great pairing for gin and ginger. The fresh flavours of the salad complement the zesty flavours of the cocktail. Try a salad with oranges or grapefruit to really enhance the flavours.

Overall, gin and ginger is a versatile cocktail that pairs well with a variety of foods. Whether you're enjoying it with a charcuterie board, seafood, spicy foods, or a citrusy salad, you're sure to have a delicious and refreshing drink that perfectly complements your meal. Don't forget to use Filey Signature Gin with Franklin's Ginger Ale for the best result!