About the Gin & Cucumber Cocktail
Did you know that gin and cucumber have only been paired together since the turn of the century? It’s all thanks to a woman named Lesley Gracie, who changed the gin world forever.
Lesley Gracie, a chemist with a background in pharmaceuticals, joined the distillery owned by William Grant & Sons. Her previous experience involved making medicines taste better, a skill that would prove invaluable when master blender David Stewart had an idea to infuse the flavors of an English garden—specifically cucumber and rose—into gin. Gracie took on the challenge, and after two years and 21 trials, the iconic recipe for Hendrick’s Gin was born. The brand officially launched in 2000.
Hendrick’s was groundbreaking, blending the bold, juniper-led profile of traditional gin with the lighter, more delicate flavors of cucumber and rose petals. The result? A gin that not only stood out in taste but also sparked a new garnish trend: the cucumber. Today, you’ll often see Hendrick’s—and many other gin and tonics—served with a fresh cucumber slice instead of the classic citrus.
With the crisp, refreshing taste of cucumber and the smooth botanicals of gin, this combination has become a modern classic. Ready to experience it for yourself? Grab your shaker, mix up a gin and cucumber cocktail, and enjoy this delightful, garden-inspired blend!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz. Gin
- 1 1/2 oz. Cucumber Juice
- 3 oz. Tonic Water
- 3-4 Cucumber Slices
- Lime Wedge
- 3-4 Mint Leaves
- 1 tsp Sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, lightly muddle mint leaves, cucumber slices and lime wedge (light enough that the cucumber stays mostly in tact).
- Add gin, cucumber juice and sugar (if using).
- Shake well and pour into a tall glass filled with ice.
- Top with tonic water and garnish with a cucumber ribbon and a sprig of mint.
