3oz gin (Iron Fish Michigan Woodland)

.75oz Jack Rudy Tonic Syrup

5oz Maison Perrier Ultimate sparkling water

Pour gin, tonic syrup over ice in a balloon style glass. Gently pour the sparkling water down a bar spoon to retain bubbles. Garnish with a lemon wheel.

I really enjoy making my own tonic water for cocktails to adjust the bitterness to whichever gin I happen to be using. The Iron Fish has a lot of piney, floral and herbal notes. I use a little more than usual to balance it out against the fruity astringency of the syrup. The lemon adds a nice bit of acid and fragrance.