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White Lady
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.78 / 5
The White Lady cocktail dates back to the 1920s and has remained a beloved classic ever since. It is believed to have been created by bartender Harry MacElhone at his famous Harry's New York Bar in Paris. The cocktail gets its name from the pale, frothy appearance which resembles a white lady's dress. The triple sec adds a hint of sweetness and orange flavor, while the lemon juice provides a zesty and tangy kick. The star ingredient, gin, gives the cocktail a strong herbal and juniper flavor, making it a favorite among gin lovers. The combination of these ingredients creates a well-balanced and refreshing drink with a smooth and crisp finish. This elegant and timeless cocktail is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
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IBA Official Drink
Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die
Invented
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(1919)
Base ingredient
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Gin
Calories
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173 calories
Alcohol content
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31.11% | 2.8 units *
Details
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Classic
Shaken

Tags

Gin ingredient icon
Gin cocktails
Triple Sec ingredient icon
Top ten Triple Sec cocktails

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Triple Sec cocktail ingredient icon for the White Lady cocktail
Triple Sec
Lemon Juice cocktail ingredient icon for the White Lady cocktail
Lemon Juice
Gin cocktail ingredient icon for the White Lady cocktail
Gin
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The White Lady cocktail is a masterful blend of brightness and botanicals; the sharp citrusy notes from the lemon juice complement the sweet, orangey undertones of the triple sec, while the gin provides a confidently herbaceous backbone. This drink, with its frothy and elegant appearance, is perfectly balanced, offering a refreshing zing paired with a smooth finish that rudely interrupts the palate with a tantalizing herbal complexity, making it absolutely irresistible to gin aficionados.

Method
How to make a White Lady

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice
Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve

Power tips
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For an extra silky texture, double-strain the cocktail by using a fine mesh strainer in addition to your usual cocktail strainer to remove any small ice shards.
Add an egg white to the shaker for a velvety mouthfeel and a glossy, frothy top. This will create an even more luxurious and smooth experience.
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The History of the White Lady

The White Lady cocktail, with its ethereal name and equally enchanting appearance, has retained its...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  · 

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Comments

May S avatar
May S

I was impressed by this recipe – the balance of gin, triple sec, and lemon juice is spot on. The herbal notes of the gin shine through beautifully, while the citrus elements offer a refreshing twist. It's smoothly satisfying, although a touch more lemon would have been welcomed. Overall, worthwhile sip!

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the history behind the White Lady cocktail?

The White Lady cocktail is believed to have been created in the 1910s by Harry MacElhone at Ciro’s Club in London. It was originally made with crème de menthe, but was later refined by Harry Craddock at The Savoy’s American Bar in London in the 1920s, who gave us the more widely known version with gin, triple sec, and lemon juice. The cocktail epitomizes the elegance and creativity of the golden age of cocktails during the 1920s.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the White Lady?

Yes, a non-alcoholic version of the White Lady can be made by substituting the gin and triple sec with non-alcoholic alternatives. Non-alcoholic gins and a triple sec syrup can mimic the flavor profile of the original cocktail, while maintaining a similar appearance and texture. Adjust the amounts based on personal taste preferences.

Faq icon

What are some common variations of the White Lady cocktail?

Common variations of the White Lady include the addition of egg white for a frothier texture, swapping the gin with vodka for a smoother taste, or the addition of other citrus juices or syrups to introduce new flavors. Some bartenders also experiment with different types of gin to alter the drink's botanical profile.

Garnishing tips icon

How should I garnish a White Lady cocktail?

A classic garnish for a White Lady cocktail is a thin lemon twist or a lemon wheel. The bright, citrus garnish complements the drink's crisp and refreshing taste. For a more decorative touch, some also add a cherry or a sprig of fresh mint.

Faq icon

Is the White Lady cocktail suitable for all seasons?

Yes, the White Lady cocktail, with its refreshing citrus flavor, is suitable for all seasons. It is light enough for summer months and has a crisp, clean taste that can be appreciated in the winter as well. Its versatility and elegance make it a year-round favorite.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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