I don’t know about you, but I could use some serious R&R after getting through the first few months of 2025. Just as the weather in the Northern Hemisphere begins to warm up, we should all take a moment to reflect on a winter of resilience and change. What better way to do so than with an elegant cocktail in hand?
For those of us looking to elevate the basic bar drink with the bounty that is fresh produce, I bring you the Strawberry G&T (gin and tonic) Timeout. Refreshing, light, and naturally sweet, this libation will keep you feeling zen all spring and summer.
The strawberry syrup is surprisingly simple to make and can be used far beyond your highball glass. For retailers, this fresh-forward twist on a gin and tonic would be a fool-proof way to drive foot traffic in both the fresh produce and specialty beverage aisles. At foodservice, I could see myself sipping this beverage on an outdoor patio alongside a bright summer salad. Or, you may just keep this gem all for yourself.
STRAWBERRY SYRUP
8 oz fresh strawberries
1 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
DRINK
1½ oz gin (Hendrick’s preferred)
½ oz lime juice
½ oz strawberry syrup
1 dash orange bitters
4–5 oz tonic water
Fresh strawberry, for garnish
Prep Time: 1 hr
Cook Time: 20 mins
Servings: 1
1. To make the strawberry syrup, combine fresh strawberries, water, and sugar in a saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes until strawberries are soft.
3. Strain the strawberries out of the liquid. (Tip: Do not press down on the strawberries; otherwise, the syrup will be cloudy).
4. Chill the simple syrup before use and store leftovers in the fridge.
5. Fill a highball glass with ice and pour in the gin, lime juice, strawberry syrup, and orange bitters. Stir well to combine.
6. Fill the rest of the glass with tonic water. Garnish with a fresh strawberry, and enjoy! 
