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DIY Tea Infused Gin: Green Tea Botanicals

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Gin is already a botanical spirit, but adding tea can take it to the next level. Infusing gin with green tea adds a fresh, grassy note that pairs perfectly with tonic and lime. It's a simple way to create a sophisticated cocktail base at home.

However, it is easy to ruin a bottle. Leave it too long, and the tannins will make your gin aggressively bitter. This guide gives you the precise steeping times for every tea type so you can build the ultimate home bar.

A glass bottle of pale green tea-infused gin with tea leaves.
Prep Time5 mins
Infuse Time2-4 hrs
Yields1 Bottle
AlcoholYes

Ingredients

The Spirit
  • 1 Bottle (750ml) Gin (Use a mid-range brand like Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire. Don't use the cheapest, but don't waste Hendricks.)

The Leaf (Choose One)
  • Green Tea (Sencha): 3 tbsp (or 3 bags). Fresh, grassy, vegetal.
  • Earl Grey: 4 tbsp (or 4 bags). Citrusy, floral, classic.
  • Jasmine Green: 3 tbsp (or 3 bags). Highly aromatic, floral.
  • Oolong: 4 tbsp. Complex, roasted, nutty.
Nutrition per 1.5 oz shot:
Calories: 97
Fat: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Carbs: 0g

Instructions

1
Prep the Container: You can infuse directly in the gin bottle if you pour out a shot first to make room. Alternatively, pour the gin into a large, clean mason jar (easier for straining).
2
Add Tea: Add your loose leaf tea or tea bags directly into the gin. Screw the lid on tight.
3
The Steep (Timing is Key): Leave at room temperature. Shake gently once an hour.
  • Green / White: 1 to 2 hours. Be careful, these get bitter fast.
  • Black / Oolong / Earl Grey: 2 to 4 hours. Taste at 2 hours.
  • Herbal / Fruit / Hibiscus: 3 to 5 hours.
4
Strain: Once the flavor is strong, strain immediately. If using loose leaf, pour through a fine-mesh sieve or coffee filter into a clean bottle. If using bags, simply remove them (squeeze gently).
5
Store: The infusion is shelf-stable indefinitely. Store in a cool, dark place or in the freezer for ice-cold shots.

Expert Tip: The "Green Tea Gin & Tonic"

Use your Green Tea Infused Gin to make a refreshing G&T. Combine 2 oz infused gin with 4 oz tonic water over ice. Garnish with a slice of cucumber and a sprig of mint.