Are you a gin enthusiast with a penchant for crafting your own signature cocktails? With our easy compound gin recipe, you can create your very own bespoke, aromatic gin at home without the need for high-tech equipment or a chemistry degree.
Gin, a fragrant spirit made by distilling neutral grain alcohol with juniper berries and other botanicals, can be infused with a variety of flavours to create a unique taste. By adding different spices, fruits, and floral elements, you can experiment with creating your own perfect gin recipe.
To start, gather a 700ml bottle of good quality vodka, two tablespoons of juniper berries, six cardamom pods, a pinch of dried rose petals, one teaspoon of coriander seeds, and a strip of lemon peel. Bruise the cardamom pods and juniper berries in a pestle and mortar to enhance their flavour, and add them, along with the other ingredients, to the vodka bottle. Leave the bottle in a cool, dark place for 24 hours to allow the ingredients to infuse.
After 24 hours, strain the infused mixture through a sieve lined with coffee filter paper and pour it back into the bottle to store. Alternatively, buy an empty gin bottle of your choosing from a glass spirit bottles supplier or wholesaler. Your homemade gin will keep for months in a cool, dark place and can be used just like any other gin.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, why not try experimenting with seasonal flavours to create even more unique cocktails? Our handy guide on how to make flavoured gin provides the perfect starting point to create raspberry gin or damson gin, with a rich, mature flavour.
To help you get started, we’ve also compiled a list of our top four gin cocktails to try. These recipes are sure to impress your guests.
So, whether you’re a juniper connoisseur or a cocktail enthusiast looking to experiment, give our compound gin recipe a try and see where your creativity takes you.
Top 4 gin cocktails
1. Gimlet
Combine gin and zingy lime syrup with plenty of ice for a simple but flavourful serving. Top with an edible flower for a final flourish. Try a savoury, herby twist with our fennel gimlet with celery seeds.
2. Dirty martini
Made with dry gin, vermouth, and plump green olives.
3. Bramble
This eye-catching gin sour is spiked with a shot of blackberry liqueur and is easily customisable if you want to switch up the flavours.
4. Singapore sling
Mix gin, cherry brandy, Benedictine, Angostura bitters and lime juice together. This tall glass of fruity flavours is just the right balance of sharp and sweet, perfect for parties.
