How To Make An Espresso Tonic - Recipe

What is an Espresso Tonic?

Possibly one of the most ‘love-it-or-hate-it’ coffees of recent times, the espresso tonic is exactly as it sounds: espresso mixed with tonic water.  It may be divisive, but we think you need to try it at least once because until you do, you don’t know if it might be your next obsession!

The origin of the espresso tonic

The espresso tonic was created in 2007 and is of Norwegian and Swedish origin. In barista competitions, each contestant is expected to make a signature drink for the judges, and espresso tonic’s renown grew as it circulated barista competitions in this way. 

Now a global phenomenon, this unusual drink is ultra-refreshing and can usually be found on specialty coffee shop menus wherever you are in the world.

Espresso tonic recipe

The ratio of espresso to tonic water depends entirely on your own preference, but customarily, the espresso tonic is served in a long glass with lots of ice, using a double espresso.

How to make an espresso tonic:

• Grind enough coffee for a double espresso.
• Extract a double espresso shot into a spouted pitcher
• Fill a hi-ball glass with ice, top up with tonic water (leaving enough room for the espresso)
• Slowly pour the espresso over the tonic and ice.

Points to note:

• Adding a slice of orange or other citrus fruits is a delicious and popular addition.
• When adding your espresso, try pouring it into the glass over the back of a spoon to lessen the impact into the tonic.  Pouring it straight in can cause increased effervescence, leading to messy countertops.  This method also creates a delightful layering effect in the glass.

FAQs

Is an espresso tonic bitter?

Espresso is bitter, tonic is bitter – this drink is definitely bitter!  But just like with Aperol spritz, bitterness can be delicious! What is surprising and delightful about the espresso tonic is how the citrus notes of the tonic bring out the brighter elements of the espresso. So, while the experience in undeniably bitter, if you sip your espresso tonic and really pay attention, you will identify some truly unique flavors…not to mention there is no coffee more refreshing!

Should you stir an espresso tonic?

You may worry that stirring or mixing an espresso tonic will knock out some of the fizz, but a gentle stir is the best way to properly combine the ingredients.  Stir gently and you should end up with a perfectly mixed, perfectly refreshing coffee with plenty of bubbles.

Where is espresso tonic popular?

Espresso tonic is now popular all over the world, especially amongst the specialty coffee industry and countries that enjoy warm weather.  However, one place it has really taken off is in Japan. Coffee fans there just cannot get enough of this distinctive bubbly iced coffee.

What’s the best type of coffee to use for an espresso tonic?

Any good espresso coffee can be used for an espresso tonic.  Something bold that will hold its own against the signature flavor of tonic water.

Looking for other recipes? Read our article about coffee drinks explained.