Weekly Summer Drink: Espresso Tonic
How to Make a Crisp & Refreshing Espresso Tonic
This summer, we’re exploring another beautiful way to enjoy your coffee cold: the Espresso Tonic. It’s a simple, elegant, and incredibly refreshing drink that perfectly balances the sweetness of coffee with the crisp bitterness of tonic water.
And don’t worry if you don’t have an espresso machine, we have some fantastic alternatives for you at the end of this guide!
What You'll Need:
- A double shot of your favourite Coffee Gems espresso
- A glass of your choice
- Plenty of ice
- Around 150-180ml of good quality tonic water
- A slice of orange or grapefruit for garnish (optional, but recommended!)
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass
Fill your tall glass about three-quarters (3/4) full with ice. If you're using a garnish, add your slice of orange or grapefruit now, tucking it against the inside of the glass. This not only looks beautiful but also infuses the drink with a lovely citrus aroma.
Step 2: Add the Tonic Water
Slowly pour your cold tonic water into the glass until it reaches the same level as the top of the ice. Pouring it gently will help preserve the bubbles.
Step 3: Brew and Pour Your Espresso
Pull a fresh, beautiful double shot of espresso (approximately 40ml). To create that stunning layered effect, slowly and gently pour the hot espresso over the top of the tonic and ice.
Step 4: Enjoy Immediately!
Watch the beautiful cascade as the dark espresso settles over the bubbly tonic. This drink is best enjoyed right away to get the full sensory experience of the aroma, fizz, and flavour. Enjoy!
Don't Have an Espresso Machine? No Problem!
You can still make a delicious Espresso Tonic without an espresso machine. The key is to create a small amount of strong, concentrated coffee that can stand up to the tonic water.
A concentrated shot from an AeroPress is a fantastic substitute. Alternatively, a classic stovetop Bialetti Moka Pot works perfectly. Simply brew a strong shot from your Moka Pot and pour about 60ml over the iced tonic for a wonderfully rich and refreshing drink.
