We’re raising a glass to the scintillating spirit by revealing how a G&T can help prevent malaria in celebration of World Gin Day, taking place on Saturday, 10 June 2017.

Queen Elizabeth commissioned the East India Company with a Royal Charter in 1600. The trade ships, accompanied by private armies, conducted business primarily with the East Indies and Indian subcontinent where soldiers and sailors were plagued by malaria. In the 1737, Charles Marie de La Condamine utilized quinine (a common ingredient in tonic water) to effectively combat the disease. Due to the bitterness of the therapeutic, those under the employ of the British company began to mix the medicine with their gin ration in addition to other local ingredients like sugar, water, and rangpurs. Rangpurs are a hybrid between mandarin oranges and lemons. When the drink globalized, it became common practice to garnish it with a lime.

Perfecting a Gin and Tonic

An extraordinary gin & tonic is made by pouring 40 ml of Gin in a highball glass filled with large ice cubes. Top up the glass with Tonic Water and give it a gentle stir. No garnish is necessary, but if you’re in the mood, try two razor-thin slices of ginger.