Fever Tree Lig Ginger Beer

Fever-Tree Ginger Beer is a carbonated mixer, not a spirit. It belongs in the long drink, where ginger's heat and a little sweetness stretch a spirit into a tall, fizzy glass. Ginger beers in this style usually taste of fresh ginger root with a peppery warmth at the back of the throat, balanced by modest sweetness and a dry, lightly spicy finish. Expect more bite than a ginger ale, so it holds up against strong spirits instead of disappearing under them. Its best use is the Moscow Mule, where it goes with vodka and lime, traditionally in a copper mug. A Dark 'n' Stormy is the other classic: a measure of dark rum with ginger beer floated over the top, finished with a lime wedge. Whisky also works well. Bourbon or Scotch with ginger beer makes a simple highball, and a squeeze of lemon or lime keeps it from tasting sweet. With gin, the same build gives a Gin Buck, where juniper and ginger spice play off each other. Tequila and ginger beer, with lime, makes a livelier option than a standard soda mixer. For serving, chill the bottle well before opening, since cold liquid holds its carbonation longer. Fill a highball or copper mug with plenty of ice, add 45 to 60 ml of spirit, and top with roughly three times as much ginger beer. Pour slowly down the side of the glass or along a bar spoon, then stir once, gently, to keep the bubbles. Garnish with a lime wedge, a lemon wheel, or a sprig of mint, and squeeze the citrus into the drink first. It is also worth trying on its own over ice with lime, or alongside spicy or fried food, where the ginger and carbonation clear the palate between bites.