Bittered Gin SlingCocktail recipe
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Bittered Gin Sling sits in the sling family: tall, refreshing gin drinks lengthened with soda and balanced with citrus and sweetness. While “sling” is an old style rather than a single fixed recipe, this version leans more modern in its structure, borrowing the vermouth-and-bitters sophistication you associate with spirit-forward serves and stretching it into an easy highball format.
You’ll find gin’s crisp botanicals set the tone, with red vermouth adding a rounded, winey sweetness that deepens the base. Lemon juice brings a clean, bright snap, and the sugar or simple syrup smooths the edges so the tartness stays refreshing rather than sharp. A dash of aromatic bitters ties the gin and vermouth together with a concentrated, spiced accent, while soda water lifts everything into a lighter, more drinkable finish.
Serve it when you want something long and cooling but not one-note—ideal for aperitif hour, warm afternoons, or casual get-togethers. It suits gin lovers who also enjoy the bittersweet pull of vermouth, and it’s a great choice when you want a highball that still feels layered and grown-up.
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Highball glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Gin leads with crisp botanicals wrapped in the winey, lightly bitter depth of red vermouth, while lemon juice and simple syrup land as a bright sweet‑tart core, lifted by soda water and sharpened with a dash of aromatic bitters. It works because the bitters and vermouth rein in the syrup and echo the gin’s herbs, making a refreshing highball for gin lovers who want more complexity than a basic gin‑and‑soda.
Method
How to make a Bittered Gin Sling
- Gin 45ml, Red vermouth 22.5ml, Lemon juice 15ml, Soda water Top up, Sugar / simple syrup 15ml, Aromatic bitters Dash
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- Add all ingredients except the soda water in a cocktail shaker with ice
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- Shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted
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- Strain into an ice-filled highball glass and top up with soda water
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- Garnish with a lime wedge and a cherry, and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- Experiment with different gin profiles (e.g., citrus-forward, herbaceous) to see how they interact with the bitters and vermouth. A more botanical gin can add an extra dimension to the drink.
- Infuse your sugar syrup with a hint of citrus zest or a sprig of rosemary. This subtle additional flavor can add complexity and enhance the other ingredients in the cocktail.
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Gin Sling, and how does the Bittered Gin Sling differ?
The Gin Sling is a traditional cocktail that originated in the 18th century as a long drink made primarily with gin and water, sweetened and flavored. The Bittered Gin Sling is a variation that includes the addition of Angostura bitters and red vermouth, providing a more complex and nuanced flavor profile compared to the classic version.
Can I use any type of gin for the Bittered Gin Sling?
Yes, you can use any type of gin for the Bittered Gin Sling, but the choice of gin can alter the flavor of the cocktail. A London Dry Gin is traditionally used for its crisp and juniper-forward flavor, which balances well with the bitterness and sweetness of the other ingredients. However, feel free to experiment with different gins to suit your taste preferences.
What is the purpose of the Angostura bitters in the cocktail?
Angostura bitters act as a flavor enhancer, adding a complex layer of botanical, herbaceous, and slightly spicy notes to the Bittered Gin Sling. It complements the gin and vermouth, bringing depth to the cocktail and balancing the sweetness of the sugar syrup and the tartness of the lemon juice.
Is the Bittered Gin Sling suitable for those who prefer less alcoholic cocktails?
Yes, the Bittered Gin Sling, with an alcohol content of 7.23%, can be considered a relatively low-alcohol cocktail compared to stronger spirits and cocktails. Its refreshing nature, complemented by soda water and the presence of non-alcoholic ingredients, makes it a good choice for those seeking a milder yet flavorful drink.
How should the Bittered Gin Sling be served for the best taste?
The Bittered Gin Sling should be served cold in a highball glass. It's typically prepared by shaking the ingredients with ice, except the soda water, and then straining into the glass. Topping it up with soda water and adding a dash of Angostura bitters before serving ensures a refreshing, well-balanced cocktail. The inclusion of ice and a lemon slice or zest as garnish can also enhance the serving appeal and taste.
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