Fine, dry gin is a key component to any well-stocked home bar, and a good host should understand the preparation methods for at least one or two gin cocktails. Below are recipes for the Tom Collins and for the perfect dry martini. I recommend Tanqueray. Bombay is good for martinis, but do your own blind tasting. Simple syrup Club soda Orange slices and cherries Premix the lemon and lime juice with the simple syrup.
Simple syrup is just sugar dissolved in water.
Pour gin over ice in a drink mixing glass. Add juice mix and shake with some vigor. Pour in a tall glass and top off with club soda and an orange cherry garnish. Extra dry vermouth Olives or other garnish Pre chill your martini glasses by filling them with ice. Pour a few drops of vermouth over ice in a martini shaker.