I'm a gin and tonic guy (just finished one a few minutes ago). My sister tried to convince me Bombay Sapphire was better than Tanqueray, but I couldn't agree. According to her, I must like the taste of juniper/pine needles/paint thinner/turpentine, etc. Tanqueray is my go-to, but Hendricks is definitely a step up. FWIW, I did discover that when you run out of tonic, Fresca works well for a substitute.
Tonic is my preferred mixer. Club if necessary. Have done gatorade in a pinch, but if I don't have any Tonic water I'd rather just have it on the rocks. That's how I can personally tell if I like the gin or not. If I think it's good on it's own with a few ice cubes then tonic isn't going to cover anything up. I'll confess to a squirt of lemon juice to substitute a lime wedge sometimes.
Tanqueray is my go-to, but Hendricks is definitely a step up. FWIW, I did discover that when you run out of tonic, Fresca works well for a substitute.