If you’ve seen a bottle with a cheeky monkey on the label, you’ve met Monkey Gin. It’s a modern gin that leans on classic botanicals but adds a few twists that make it stand out. The result is a spirit that’s bright, a little sweet, and easy to drink straight or in a mixed drink.
Monkey Gin starts with the usual gin base – juniper, coriander, and citrus peel – then layers in ingredients like pineapple, guava, and a hint of vanilla. Those fruit notes give it a tropical vibe without overwhelming the traditional gin bite. The alcohol level sits around 40% ABV, so it has enough kick for a cocktail but isn’t too harsh for sipping.
When you pour it over ice, you’ll notice a light amber hue and a fresh aroma of citrus followed by a subtle sweet fruit scent. On the palate, the piney juniper comes first, then the pineapple and guava kick in, finishing with a smooth vanilla aftertaste. That balance makes it a good middle ground for gin newbies and seasoned fans who want something a bit different.
Because Monkey Gin already carries fruit flavors, you can keep mixers simple. Here are three go‑to drinks you can make in under five minutes.
1. Monkey Mule – Fill a copper mug with ice, add 45 ml Monkey Gin, 15 ml fresh lime juice, and top with ginger beer. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge. The ginger’s spice pairs nicely with the gin’s tropical notes.
2. Tropical Gin & Tonic – In a glass with ice, combine 50 ml Monkey Gin, 150 ml premium tonic water, and a splash of pineapple juice. Stir and add a pineapple slice or a sprig of mint. The tonic’s bitterness balances the gin’s sweetness.
3. Monkey Collins – Shake 45 ml Monkey Gin, 20 ml lemon juice, 15 ml simple syrup, and a dash of orange bitters with ice. Strain into a tall glass, top with soda water, and garnish with a lemon wheel. It’s a refreshing twist on a classic.
All three drinks keep the ingredient list short, letting Monkey Gin’s flavor shine. If you like a bit more fizz, swap soda water for sparkling lemonade for a sweeter version.
When you serve Monkey Gin, think about the occasion. A casual backyard BBQ calls for the Mule or Collins, while a dinner party might benefit from the more nuanced Tropical Gin & Tonic. You can also serve it neat – just pour a small amount over a single large ice cube and let the aromas open up.
Pairing food with Monkey Gin is easy. Its fruit forward profile works well with light appetizers like shrimp ceviche, grilled pineapple salsa, or a cheese board featuring fresh goat cheese and mild crackers. If you’re serving a main dish, think about tropical flavors – think coconut rice, grilled chicken with mango glaze, or a simple grilled fish.
Finally, store Monkey Gin away from direct sunlight and keep the bottle tightly sealed. The bright flavors stay stable for years, but once opened, try to use it within six months for the best taste.
Monkey Gin is a versatile spirit that can fit into almost any drinking situation. Whether you’re mixing a quick cocktail, sipping it neat, or pairing it with a light snack, the key is to let its built‑in fruit notes do the work. Grab a bottle, try one of the easy recipes above, and enjoy a playful twist on classic gin.
Wondering why Monkey Gin costs so much? This article breaks down what makes Monkey Gin stand out from the crowd, how its production adds to the price, and whether it’s worth splurging on a bottle. You'll get a peek behind the scenes of distillery tours and learn how to make the most of your next gin-tasting trip. Don’t miss the tips on spotting genuine craft value versus clever marketing.
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