Gin and Bitter Lemon

Chill a highball or Collins glass by filling it with ice cubes and setting it aside while you prepare the drink.

Measure out 1 teaspoon of superfine sugar into a mixing glass or cocktail shaker. Superfine sugar dissolves more readily than regular granulated sugar, ensuring a smooth texture.

Add 1 ounce (30 ml) of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the mixing glass with the sugar and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a simple lemon syrup base.

Pour 2 ounces (60 ml) of gin into the mixing glass with the lemon-sugar mixture and stir to combine all ingredients evenly.

Discard the ice from the chilled glass and fill it with fresh ice cubes to the brim.

Strain or pour the gin and lemon mixture over the fresh ice in the prepared glass.

Top the glass with chilled sparkling water or tonic water to replicate the effervescent character of bitter lemon, pouring gently along the side of the glass to preserve carbonation.

Gently stir once to integrate the ingredients, then garnish with a thin lemon wheel or twist and serve immediately.