The History of the White Lady
The White Lady cocktail, with its ethereal name and equally enchanting appearance, has retained its...
White Lady Cocktail recipe
Cocktail recipe
Rating
4.78 / 5
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The White Lady is a bright, gin-forward sour that sits alongside the great pre-Prohibition and interwar-era cocktails, prized for its...
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The White Lady is a bright, gin-forward sour that sits alongside the great pre-Prohibition and interwar-era cocktails, prized for its clean lines and bracing balance. You’ll often see it discussed as part of the early 20th-century shift toward lighter, citrus-led drinks, with its identity evolving as gin became the preferred base spirit in many bars. However you frame its backstory, it reads today as a crisp, elegant classic that feels right at home in a chilled cocktail glass.
On the palate, gin brings a dry backbone and aromatic lift, while triple sec adds a sweet orange layer that softens the edges. Lemon juice drives the drink’s snap and keeps everything taut, pulling the orange notes into sharper focus. Expect a lean, zesty profile where the citrus is prominent, the sweetness is measured, and the gin stays clearly in charge.
Serve it when you want something refreshing but decidedly grown-up—ideal as an aperitif before dinner or as a palate-waker at the start of an evening. If you like Margaritas or other citrus sours but prefer the cleaner, drier feel of gin, this one lands perfectly. It also suits anyone who enjoys cocktails that taste precise, bright, and uncluttered.
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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 units of alcohol *
Details
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Easy
Classic
Shaken
Cocktail Colin says:
5/5
Gin leads with crisp botanicals wrapped in the orange sweetness of triple sec, while lemon juice snaps everything into a bright, dry-edged sour that finishes clean and zesty. It works because the lemon’s acidity tightens the triple sec and lifts the gin, making a lean, refreshing drink for fans of bracing citrus and spirit-forward sours.
Method
How to make a White Lady
Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
- Gin 40ml, Triple sec 30ml, Lemon juice 20ml
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- Add all ingredients to 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 a chilled cocktail glass and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- 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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FAQ's
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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