by MELISSA DOWLING
Gin ’ s Time
The Harmony Gin & Tonic at Valerie in New York uses Glendalough wild botanical gin , Fee Bros . rhubarb bitters , blood orange tincture and Fever Tree aromatic tonic .
Once the star of the cocktail scene , gin has never regained momentum since vodka took off in recent decades . But based on the number of new craft gins and unique expressions hitting the market , and a few key gin acquisitions from major spirits players , the U . S . is warming to gin once again — for real this time .
In fact , the Bacardi Global Consumer Survey finds that the Gin & Tonic is the top bar call for 2024 , beating out the Mojito at # 2 and the Margarita at # 3 . Some trend watchers expect to see more consumers opting for Gin & Tonics , as the new craft gins and gourmet tonics available present unique flavor possibilities .
Queen Restaurant & Lounge in Miami has noticed a gradual increase in the popularity of gin among patrons , says bar manager Karol Ansaldi . “ The international guests especially have a tendency to order gin-based cocktails compared to our local Miami crowd .”
22 Cheers • Spring 2024 www . cheersonline . com