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In this article, we'll show you how to easily make an espresso tonic at home or anywhere you go. All you need is a quality coffee maker, ice, and a little creativity.
What is an espresso tonic?
Summer days call for light, refreshing, yet flavorful drinks. The coffee world is no exception – and the espresso tonic is becoming an increasingly popular drink not only in cafes but also in homes. This unconventional drink combines the strength and character of coffee with the citrus-bitter flavor of tonic . The result is surprisingly balanced, beautifully layered, and extremely refreshing .
Espresso tonic was created relatively recently, but in a short time it has found a stable place on the menu of modern cafes. It probably originated in Scandinavia , where people are not afraid to experiment with coffee and flavors. The drink consists of cold tonic with ice, on which freshly prepared espresso is carefully poured. This creates a visually attractive and taste-contrasting combination - ideal for summer refreshment .
The resulting taste is bittersweet, bubbly, with an interesting fruity or floral touch – depending on the ingredients used.
Espresso tonic originated in the Nordic countries, probably Sweden or Finland around 2007–2010 . Baristas there experimented with coffee and tonic as an alternative to the classic iced espresso .
Which coffee to choose?
Espresso tonic is not suitable for all types of coffee. Lighter roasts with fruity or floral notes, complemented by the bitterness of tonic, are ideal. We recommend coffees from Ethiopia, Colombia or Kenya, or blends with a citrus character.
Espresso tonic – anywhere, anytime
Thanks to travel coffee makers, you can prepare an espresso tonic even on vacation, at the campsite, by the water or at a festival. Try models from Wacaco, Flair espresso or Outin.
What will you need?
Ingredients:
- 150–200 ml of quality tonic
- Ice (ideally large, clear cubes made from filtered water)
- 25–30 ml fresh espresso
- Lemon or orange peel for garnish (optional)
- Herbs (e.g. mint, rosemary) – optional for flavor
- Coffee beans from your favorite roaster
Recommended equipment:
- Espresso coffee maker , such as a mechanical coffee maker Flair 58 or a travel coffee maker Flair GO
- A quality coffee grinder , such as 1Z presso J-ultra
- A tall glass cup (at least 250 ml), ideally translucent for visual effect
Step-by-step preparation procedure
1. Prepare a glass
Choose a tall, clear glass and fill it 2/3 full with ice. Use larger, clear ice cubes – they melt more slowly and look better.
2. Pour the tonic
Slowly pour tonic (150–200 ml) directly onto the ice. If you use flavored tonic (e.g. citrus or floral), you will get new flavor combinations.
3. Prepare the espresso
Use your coffee machine to make a quality espresso. Use freshly ground coffee with fruity, citrus or chocolate notes – a lighter to medium roast works best. The contrast between the sweetness of the tonic and the flavor of the coffee is important.
4. Pour espresso over tonic
Pour the espresso slowly over the back of a spoon, just above the level of the tonic water, to prevent foam from forming and to keep the drink visually layered. The dark coffee layer on top of the light tonic water creates an elegant look.
5. Decoration and serving
Garnish the drink with a piece of lemon or orange peel, or a sprig of rosemary or mint. This will not only give it an attractive appearance, but also a delicate aroma.
When espresso is poured over tonic, the carbon dioxide from the tonic reacts with the hot espresso, creating the characteristic foam. That's why it's important to pour the espresso slowly , ideally over a spoon.
Tips and tricks for the perfect espresso tonic
- Don't skimp on tonic water. Cheap tonics can be too sweet or tasteless. A quality tonic is the key to success.
- Combine with fruit. Try adding a few blueberries, lime wedges, or a splash of grapefruit juice for an extra layer of flavor.
- Use filtered water. Not only for ice, but also when making espresso. The purity of the water fundamentally affects the resulting taste.
- Chill everything ahead of time. Espresso tonic tastes best when all the ingredients are cold.
- Suitable for serving to guests. Visually attractive, quick to prepare and always impressive.
- Use freshly ground coffee. Grind the coffee beans in a quality grinder.
Espresso tonic is more than just a drink – it’s an experience. Combining the energy of espresso with the lightness of tonic , it offers the perfect combination of flavors for hot days. Try making it yourself and discover a new way to enjoy your coffee.
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