Can you still buy quinine water?

If you’re a fan of gin and tonics or other classic cocktails, then you’ve probably been wondering if quinine water is still available for purchase. This once-common mixer has fallen out of favor in recent years due to concerns about the potential health risks associated with long-term use. But fear not, intrepid imbiber! There are still ways to get your hands on this historic beverage.

What is quinine water?

Quinine water (also known as tonic water) was originally developed as a way to treat malaria back in the late 1800s. The active ingredient in this carbonated drink is quinine, which comes from the bark of the cinchona tree found primarily in South America. Today, it’s mostly used as an ingredient in mixed drinks thanks to its unique bitter taste.

Why people love it so much

Some folks can’t get enough of that distinctively bitter flavor that many describe as “refreshing” and “zingy”. It pairs especially well with botanical-infused spirits like gin or mezcal, where its complex bitterness acts like a foil against sweeter flavors like citrus or honey.

So where’s all the quinine gone?

While certainly less popular than it once was, quinine water hasn’t completely vanished from store shelves just yet. Many grocery stores carry brands such as Schweppes or Canada Dry – both companies have been producing tonic-style beverages since before Prohibition-era barkeeps began mixing them into cocktail recipes en masse.

Did you know?: In colonial times when British officers had no idea how to deal with malaria they would mix their usual tonic along with some alcohol content present inside Gin creating what we now call ‘Gin & Tonic’ responsible for saving our great grandfathers lives!

Harder-to-find options

For those looking for more high-end versions of tonic waters there are plenty of striking-yet-pricey brands out there! You can choose from brands such as Fever-Tree, Q Tonic, or Fentimans to find a few more premium options.

If you’re still coming up short on finding ribboned bottles at the local supermarket be sure to check with specialty beverage retailers. Many have moved in recent years towards carrying less “mainstream” beverages for those looking for something just a little bit different.

Fun Fact: During the 1600s Jesuits discovered that Peruvian natives were drinking cinchona tea to cure certain kinds of malaria which then led them including it’s extract quinine through an entirely unique material i.e Gin 🙂

Amazon your way to victory

For even more intrepid drinkers – Quinine water is indeed available on prime marketplaces worldwide delivered straight within hours!

DIY Smarter not harder

Many mixologists abstain away from purchasing ready-made tonic waters and believe rather in long lasting strategies by making their own homemade ones using specific dimensions ensuring they get what they desire!

Realistically creating such things might sound draining but some enthusiasts would argue otherwise stating that DIY is always smarter than overpriced items; Purchasing distilled quinine powder online along with Sugar syrup mixed into carbonated mineral water and BAM its ready (With the right proportions).

Homemade recipe guide

Recipe makes about 3 cups:

  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 2 tsp powdered quinine
  • zest and juice of one lime
  • zest and juice of one lemon
  • handful fresh herbs – rosemary, thyme or lavender – torn roughly.
  • sugar syrup made by heating equal quantities granulated sugar with cold water until dissolved.

In addition:

Stir all ingredients well together along with multiple Carbon dioxide bubbles until required balance achieved!

Pro-tip: Combining Distilled Gin & Contratto Bitter Liqueur pours this drink onto another level!

Keep in mind the dangers

Unwavering consumption of quinine water is related to serious health concerns and it’s use as an anti-malaria drug has been banned or regulated in certain areas. Today, due to minimal amounts used for common beverages this isn’t concerning anymore but still be sure to keep your intakes monitored.

Final Word: Everything consumed within limits shouldn’t cause any harms so pleasure yourselves with some quirky cocktail mixes!

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