Citrus Tonic

Espresso Tonic

Bubbly tonic meets silky crema. Bitter-sweet, citrusy, and endlessly photogenic — the patio pick-me-up of legends.

Espresso tonic with citrus twist and ice (placeholder)
Bert bartender (placeholder)

Bert’s Blackboard

  • Chill the tonic hard; warm espresso + cold bubbles = magic.
  • Pour slow over ice to keep the layer clean.
  • Twist of orange or grapefruit wakes up the aromatics.
Ingredients (1 serving)
  • 2–3 oz (60–90 ml) chilled tonic water
  • 1 double shot fresh espresso (about 2 oz / 60 ml)
  • Ice (clear cubes look great)
  • Optional sweetener: 0–0.5 oz simple, demerara, or honey syrup
  • Garnish: orange or grapefruit peel (expressed); optional rosemary sprig
Gear

Rocks or highball glass, espresso machine (or moka pot), peeler.

Steps
  1. Fill the glass with ice. Add chilled tonic and sweetener if using.
  2. Pull a fresh double espresso. Let it stand 15–20 seconds.
  3. Slowly pour espresso over the back of a spoon to float over the tonic.
  4. Express a strip of citrus peel over the top; garnish and serve.
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Sweetness Guide — Customize Your Cup

  • Simple (1:1): clean sweetness; start at 0.25 oz, up to 0.5 oz.
  • Demerara (1:1): light molasses depth; cola/caramel vibes.
  • Honey (1:1): floral roundness; great with orange peel.
  • Gomme: extra silky mouthfeel if you stock it.
  • Low/No-Sugar: stevia/monkfruit micro-drops only; bitterness can amplify.
  • Salt Hack: 2–3 drops 20% saline lift citrus & perceived sweetness.

Variations (Coo-Coo-fied)

  • Grapefruit Tonic: swap orange for grapefruit; add a squeeze for brightness.
  • Herbal Tonic: clap a rosemary or thyme sprig; quick stir for aroma.
  • Vanilla-Citrus: 2–3 drops vanilla extract or syrup + orange peel = creamsicle vibes.
  • Zero-Proof “Americano”: replace espresso with strong chilled rooibos or Assam concentrate.

Made With

Espresso Beans

Light-medium for citrus pop; darker for cola/caramel.

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Glassware

Tall rocks or highball shows the two-layer pour.

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Citrus Kit

Peeler + fresh oranges or grapefruit for aromatic finish.

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Last updated: November 12, 2025