Today, we will be looking at one of my all-time favorite drinks from the Bartender: Glass of God series: the old 19th-century classic, the Gin Fizz. This elegant drink has much history within the world of Mixology and is a staple for any household boasting elegance and refinement.
Few drinks capture the elegance and balance of a well-crafted Gin Fizz. This timeless cocktail, with its bright citrus, smooth texture, and effervescent finish, has stood the test of time in bars across the world. But in Bartender Glass of God, a drink is never just a drink. It’s a reflection of the person drinking it. The Gin Fizz is no exception, offering a versatile canvas for subtle refinements that elevate its flavor and presentation.
A Note on Responsible Enjoyment
Before diving into these recipes, it’s important to remember that alcohol should be enjoyed responsibly. If you are under the legal drinking age in your country, region, or state, these recipes should be used for reference or adapted into non-alcoholic versions. Always prioritize your well-being and those around you while consuming alcoholic beverages.
The Classic Gin Fizz – Refreshing and Timeless
The Gin Fizz is a beautifully balanced cocktail that combines gin’s botanical complexity with the bright acidity of lemon and the subtle sweetness of simple syrup. The addition of egg white gives the drink a smooth, airy texture, while soda water provides an effervescent lift. It’s a drink that feels effortlessly sophisticated yet approachable.
This drink has been a classic within the mixology world and has kept its place in one of the top spots ever since the early 19th century. Its sophisticated blend and submission to variation are highlighted through many renditions of this fine indulgence. Whether you add egg white or seasonal fruits to liven up your drinking experience, there is a way to make it for everyone.
Where to Find the Ingredients
Gin:
- Total Wine & More: They offer a wide selection of gins, including various brands and styles.
- BevMo!: They carry a variety of gins from different distilleries.
Fresh Lemon Juice:
- Whole Foods: They provide fresh lemons, perfect for juicing.
- Trader Joe’s: They offer fresh produce, including lemons.
Simple Syrup:
- Walmart: They carry simple syrup, and you can also find ingredients to make your own.
- Target: They offer simple syrup from different brands.
Egg White:
- Walmart: They offer fresh eggs that you can use to separate egg whites.
- Whole Foods: They carry high-quality eggs, ideal for cocktails.
Orange Flower Water (for Ramos Gin Fizz):
- Amazon: They have a variety of orange flower water options available for delivery.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white (optional, but recommended for a smoother texture)
- 2 oz soda water
- Ice
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
- Dry shake (without ice) for about 10 seconds to create foam.
- Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled highball glass.
- Top with soda water and let the foam rise naturally.
- Optionally, garnish with a lemon twist for added aroma.
The result is a crisp, slightly tart, and lightly creamy drink that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day. It’s an excellent cocktail for both newcomers and seasoned drinkers, as it highlights gin’s versatility without overpowering the palate.
The Ramos Gin Fizz – A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship
If the classic Gin Fizz is a refined work of simplicity, the Ramos Gin Fizz is its intricate and delicate counterpart. Originating from New Orleans in the 1880s, this version takes the original formula and enhances it with cream, orange flower water, and an extended shaking process, resulting in an incredibly smooth, meringue-like texture that feels like drinking a cloud.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- 1 oz heavy cream
- 3 drops orange flower water
- 2 oz soda water
- Ice
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, cream, and orange flower water.
- Dry shake (without ice) for at least 15 seconds to properly aerate the mixture.
- Add ice and shake vigorously for another 30 seconds to a full minute. Traditional bartenders would shake for up to 12 minutes, but a good hard shake will do.
- Strain into a tall Collins glass without ice.
- Slowly top with soda water, allowing the foam to rise above the rim of the glass.
- Let it settle for a few moments before serving.
The Ramos Gin Fizz is a showstopper, both in flavor and presentation. The combination of citrus, botanicals, and cream creates an ultra-smooth drink that feels indulgent yet light. The addition of orange flower water gives it a floral note that elevates it beyond the ordinary.
Which One Should You Make?
Both variations of the Gin Fizz offer something special. The classic version is quick, refreshing, and effortless. Perfect for a casual evening or a bright afternoon drink. The Ramos Gin Fizz, on the other hand, is a labor of love, best reserved for special occasions or when you want to impress with your bartending skills. Let’s be honest here: nothing shows true class, like being able to mix a drink that leaves everyone feeling warm and satisfied at the end of the night.
In Bartender Glass of God, every drink serves a purpose. The Gin Fizz is no exception. It’s a drink that can match the personality of the moment, whether light and refreshing or rich and luxurious. And there are many drinks out there that have the capability to wow your socks off. But the Gin Fizz is a refined mistress that knows her worth is weighed in gold. It’s elegant. Classy. Alluring in every flavourful aspect.
This is a drink for everyone. Well, everyone who can drink, that is. It’s a refined and elegant concoction that hits the spot no matter the time or weather. Whether you’re crafting a cocktail to relax or showcasing the skill of a true bartender, this drink is a testament to the power of simplicity and technique. So grab your shaker, choose your version, and raise a glass to the art of the Fizz.