Tonic water is a carbonated beverage like club soda or seltzer, though it does not have their more neutral taste. Tonic water is known for its signature bitterness thanks to quinine, an ingredient that can be found on the bark of cinchona trees. First used by Europeans to treat malaria, British soldiers in colonial India then started to mix in carbonated water and sugar to make it more palatable, resulting in the tonic water we know today.
Also known as Indian tonic water, there is no difference between the two names regardless of the brand— though tonic water manufacturers may draw the distinction in their offerings. Although tonic water remains a go-to mix for the best gins, it still plays an essential role in enhancing the taste of spirits and non-alcoholic beverages.
Brands usually infuse their tonic waters with artificial sweeteners, sugar, and high levels of fructose corn syrup to tame the bitterness. They have also started experimenting with earthy and citrusy additions to their products, which may be appealing to consumers who like to try something new. Are you ready to shake up your next drink? Let’s get to know the best water tonic options for cocktails this 2022, all made to rejuvenate your heart and soul.
Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. Tonic Water
Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. made a name for itself with its syrups, most notably its tonic syrups. Now the brand has a straightforward tonic water made with cane sugar and citrus to get you one step closer to a refreshing drink with fewer ingredients.
Schweppes Tonic Water
Even with craft tonic waters flooding the scene, Schweppes is routinely listed as a favorite by cocktail experts and novices alike. The affordability mixed with its bitter yet balanced flavor profile makes it a hit in any gin and tonic.
Canada Dry Tonic Water
The sweetest of the supermarket brands, Canada Dry Tonic Water can subdue cheaper spirits without overwhelming top-shelf liquors. Its sweetness definitely takes the front seat, so it’s a solid pick if you don’t like dry tonic water.
Q Spectacular Tonic Water (24 Pack)
Q Tonic Water sets itself apart by using agave nectar to sweeten the pot, resulting in the least amount of sugar per serving. Even though they also add lemon to the mix, their tonic water doesn’t draw too much attention to itself.
Fentimans Tonic Water
A gift from the U.K., Fentimans Tonic Water has practically no carbonation and walks the tightrope of what a tonic water should be. The added lemongrass brings a citrusy element to the table without drowning the palate in bitterness.
Fever-Tree Premium Indian Tonic Water
If you love tonic water but worry about the sugar content, Fever-Tree is a great option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Though this is their standout tonic water, Fever Tree’s tonic options tend to hover marginally above Q’s 7 grams per serving.
While you may not think of cranberry as a common pairing for tonic, the sweetness and the spice from the ginger create a truly bittersweet flavor. Rounded by the fruity notes, this tonic from Double Dutch is especially great with gins that are more on the citrusy side of the spectrum.
