Quick liquor mixers explained: the range and what to try first

Your guide to quick liquor mixers in Nairobi

Whether you're mixing a classic G&T or experimenting with something new, the right mixer makes all the difference. Quick Liquor stocks a solid range of quick liquor mixers to suit every drink and occasion, from familiar classics to locally-made options that bring something fresh to the glass. Here's what's on offer and where to start if you're new to the range.

The classics: tried and tested

Schweppes Tonic Water 500ml PET is the go-to for anyone who takes their gin seriously. Clean, crisp, and with that signature quinine bite, Schweppes has been the backbone of gin and tonics for decades. The 500ml PET bottle is practical for home use and easy to store. If you're mixing vodka tonics or need a reliable mixer for a house party, this one does the job without fuss.

The fruity option: Del Monte

Del Monte Mixed Berry 1L brings a sweet, fruity punch to vodka and rum cocktails. The 1-litre size is generous enough for a few rounds, and the mixed berry flavour works well in punches or simple two-ingredient serves. It's straightforward, widely available, and familiar to most Nairobi drinkers. Pour it over ice with vodka and a squeeze of lime, and you've got an easy crowd-pleaser.

The local standouts: Handas range

Handas is a Kenyan brand that's been quietly building a name for itself with cold-pressed and distilled juices designed specifically for mixing. These aren't your standard supermarket juices—they're concentrated, bold, and made with cocktails in mind.

Cold-pressed intensity

Handas Juice Cold Pressed Extreme Strength - 500ml lives up to its name. This is a high-intensity mixer meant to stand up to spirits without getting lost. The cold-pressed process keeps the flavours vibrant, and the 500ml bottle goes a long way because you don't need much per drink. It's ideal for anyone who wants their cocktails to have real fruit character without being watered down.

If you want a lighter option, Handas Cold Pressed - 250ml offers the same quality in a smaller format. Perfect for experimenting or for smaller gatherings.

Distilled and distinctive

Handas also offers distilled juices in unique flavours that you won't find elsewhere:

• Hibiscus Jaba Juice (Distilled) by Handas 500ml brings a floral, slightly tart edge to drinks. Hibiscus (locally known as jaba) has a natural tanginess that pairs beautifully with gin, tequila, or even rum. It's a conversation starter and adds a local twist to your home bar.

• Strawberry Jaba Juice (Distilled) by Handas 500ml combines the tartness of hibiscus with strawberry sweetness. It's versatile enough for vodka cocktails, sparkling wine mixes, or even mocktails if you're catering to a mixed crowd.

The distilled format means these juices are concentrated and shelf-stable, so a little goes a long way.

What to try first

If you're new to the range and want to start with one bottle, go for Del Monte Mixed Berry 1L. It's versatile, familiar, and easy to work with. You can mix it with almost any clear spirit, serve it at a casual gathering, or keep it on hand for when friends drop by. The 1-litre size gives you room to experiment without committing to something too niche.

Once you've got the basics down, branch out into the Handas range—especially the hibiscus or strawberry distilled juices—if you want to try something distinctly Kenyan and a bit more adventurous.

Stock your home bar

A well-stocked mixer shelf makes hosting easier and your drinks more interesting. Keep a tonic on hand for classic serves, a fruity option like Del Monte for easy crowd-pleasers, and one or two Handas bottles if you like to mix things up. You'll be ready for anything from a quiet evening drink to an impromptu get-together.

Order on www.quickliquor.co.ke, delivered across Nairobi.

Some elements of this article were curated with the help of AI and reviewed by the Quick Liquor team. Excessive consumption of alcohol is harmful to your health. Not for sale to persons under 18. Drink responsibly.