Giffard Ginger Of The Indies

Ginger Of The Indies is a ginger liqueur from Giffard, so it belongs behind the bar as a sweetened, spiced modifier. It is not a gin or a base spirit. Ginger liqueurs in this style usually lead with fresh, zesty root heat and a rounded sweetness. Expect a peppery warmth on the finish that builds slowly rather than hitting all at once. The exact sweetness and strength vary by bottling, so taste a small measure neat before you commit to a recipe. Its best use is as the ginger backbone of a long drink. Pour a measure over plenty of ice in a highball glass or a copper mug, add vodka, gin, or an aged rum, and top with soda water or a dry sparkling lime soda. This gives you a Moscow Mule or Gin Buck with real root character and no ginger beer required. Because the liqueur carries its own sugar, go lighter than you would with a plain syrup, and add fresh lime juice to keep the balance crisp. It also works in smaller doses. A teaspoon to a quarter ounce can lift a gin sour, a Whiskey Smash, or a Tom Collins-style drink. In a Gin & Tonic, a small splash adds a gentle spice that suits citrus-forward gins. Ginger and dark spirits are a natural match, so it is a good partner for rye, bourbon, or dark rum in stirred drinks, where it can stand in for part of the sweetener. For serving, chill the glass and use large, cold ice so the drink stays bright as it dilutes. Garnish with a lime wheel, a thin slice of candied or fresh ginger, or a sprig of mint. It can also be poured over vanilla ice cream or splashed into a hot tea or cider as an easy way to add warmth.