Chocolate Gin and Tonic

The Chocolate Gin and Tonic brings a rich twist to a classic highball. Dry gin and crisp tonic get an unexpected layer of depth from chocolate liqueur and bitters. With cooling mint and a hint of dark chocolate on top, this cocktail is both refreshing and indulgent. Inspired by jamjarkitchen.com.

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Tasting Notes

The Chocolate Gin and Tonic pairs botanical depth with rich cocoa flavor. The gin brings herbal and citrus notes, while the chocolate liqueur adds a smooth, bittersweet layer without overpowering the drink. Tonic water cuts through with crispness, maintaining a refreshing finish. Chocolate bitters deepen the cocoa flavor and tie the ingredients together. Garnishing with fresh mint adds a cool aroma, and grated dark chocolate on top introduces a hint of bitterness with each sip. The balance of dryness, sweetness, and botanicals creates a drink that’s both refreshing and complex, with just enough richness to keep it interesting.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare a Chocolate Gin and Tonic, you’ll need a jigger for measuring, a bar spoon for stirring, and a grater for the dark chocolate garnish. Use a highball glass, which allows room for ice and tonic water while giving the drink a tall, clean look. A sharp knife is useful for prepping mint sprigs. Fill the glass with fresh ice cubes to keep the drink cool and properly diluted. You don’t need a shaker for this recipe, which makes it quick and easy to build directly in the glass with just a few simple tools.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz chocolate liqueur
• 5 oz tonic water
• 2 dashes chocolate bitters
• Mint sprig and grated dark chocolate, for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Add gin, chocolate liqueur, and chocolate bitters.
• Top with tonic water and stir gently to combine.
• Garnish with a sprig of mint and a dusting of grated dark chocolate.

Pro Tips

• Use a dry or neutral gin to avoid clashing with the chocolate
• Chill your tonic before pouring to preserve carbonation
• Use large ice cubes to slow dilution
• Stir gently to mix without losing fizz
• Grate chocolate just before serving for fresher aroma
• Choose a chocolate liqueur that’s not overly sweet
• Use a fine grater or microplane for best garnish texture
• Add bitters directly over the ice to help distribute evenly

When to Serve

The Chocolate Gin and Tonic suits early evening drinks or late-night gatherings. It’s a good choice for after-dinner cocktails when something lighter than dessert is preferred but still offers a satisfying flavor profile. The drink also fits well at winter parties or cozy indoor settings, where its cocoa notes complement cooler weather. Despite the chocolate flavor, it stays light and crisp thanks to the tonic, so it won’t weigh down your cocktail lineup. Serve it when you want a familiar format with an unexpected twist that appeals to gin lovers and chocolate fans alike.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Gin

• Beefeater
• Bombay Sapphire
• Tanqueray
• Roku

Chocolate Liqueur

• Mozart Dark Chocolate Liqueur
• Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
• Tempus Fugit Crème de Cacao
• Dorda Double Chocolate Liqueur

Chocolate Bitters

• Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters
• Scrappy’s Chocolate Bitters
• Bittermens Xocolatl Mole Bitters

Similar Cocktails

• Chocolate Mint Julep
• Boozy Chocolate Bunny
• Blood Orange Gin and Tonic
• Cider Gin and Tonic
• Grapefruit Rosemary Gin and Tonic