A Lemon Gin Fizz brings a bright pop of citrus to the classic gin fizz cocktail. This simple drink needs just four main ingredients: gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda.
The recipe traces back to the late 1800s when fizzy drinks became popular in bars across America and Europe. The gin fizz family of cocktails remains a staple at bars today because of their light, refreshing taste.
People love this drink at garden parties, brunches, and warm afternoon gatherings. The bubbles from the club soda create a fun, fizzy texture while the gin and lemon make a perfect match of botanical and citrus flavors.
Lemon Gin Fizz Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Hawthorne strainer
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Collins glass
- Ice cube tray
- Citrus juicer
- Bar spoon
Ingredients
- 2 oz London dry gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- Club soda to top
- Ice cubes for shaking and serving
- Lemon wheel for garnish
Simple Syrup Recipe:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Add gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake for 10-15 seconds until well chilled.
- Fill a Collins glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Double strain the mixture through both strainers into the glass.
- Top with club soda (about 2-3 oz).
- Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Lemon Gin Fizz has a bright and fresh citrus aroma. The lemon zest scent mixes with juniper notes from the gin to create a clean, crisp smell.
The first sip reveals a perfect balance between sweet and sour. Tart lemon juice blends with simple syrup, while the gin adds botanical depth.
Club soda brings a lively fizz that makes each sip light and refreshing. The bubbles carry the flavors across the tongue and add a pleasant tingle.
The texture is smooth yet effervescent. A silky mouthfeel comes from the shaken egg white, which creates a luxurious foam on top.
Flavor Profile:
- Primary: Fresh lemon, juniper
- Secondary: Citrus zest, soft vanilla
- Finish: Clean, bright, slightly dry
The finish is clean and refreshing. Light gin botanicals linger briefly, followed by a subtle citrus note that gently fades.
This cocktail works well as an afternoon drink or pre-dinner aperitif. The flavors remain crisp and zesty from start to finish.
Substitute
A vodka soda can replace gin in this cocktail for a lighter taste. The lemon juice and simple syrup remain the same.
For a non-alcoholic version, use tonic water or club soda instead of gin. Add an extra splash of lemon juice to match the citrus notes of the original drink.
Other citrus fruits work well in place of lemon. Lime juice creates a bright flavor, while grapefruit juice adds a tart twist. Keep the measurements equal when swapping citrus.
Alternative sweeteners:
- Honey syrup
- Agave nectar
- Maple syrup
- Sugar-free simple syrup
Club soda alternatives include:
- Sparkling mineral water
- Tonic water
- Ginger ale
- Sprite or 7-Up
These substitutes maintain the fizzy texture while adding unique flavors. Each option creates a different taste profile but keeps the refreshing quality of the original drink.
