Most tonic water is an afterthought. Chuala is not. Built from natural quinine (the actual bark of the cinchona tree, not a synthetic substitute), organic cane sugar, cardamom, clary sage, and citrus, it's a tonic that actually has a flavor profile worth thinking about. The bitterness is real and calibrated, the sweetness backs off rather than dominating, and the carbonation is fine and persistent.
It works beautifully with NA gin — which is most of what we carry — but it also stands alone over ice with a squeeze of lemon as a clean, slightly bitter sparkling drink. Austin-based, Double Gold at the SF Tasting Alliance two years running.
Key ingredients: Carbonated water, organic cane sugar, natural flavors (cardamom, clary sage, citrus), natural quinine, citric acid
Good to know: Naturally flavored. No artificial sweeteners or flavors. Double Gold Medal — SF Tasting Alliance 2024 and 2025. 96 rating, New York International Spirits Competition. Made by Chuala (Cinchona Holdings, Inc.) in Austin, Texas. Available in 8 oz cans, single or 4-pack.
How to enjoy: Best cold, poured over ice with your NA gin of choice. A 2:1 ratio of tonic to spirit is a good starting point. Add a cucumber slice or lemon twist. Also excellent straight over ice with citrus — no gin needed.
Swizzle's Take: We carry Chuala because the NA G&T is one of the drinks people ask us about most — and the tonic matters just as much as the gin. This one keeps up.
