Sloe Gin Fizz Cocktail Guide
About the Sloe Gin Fizz
The sloe gin fizz is a lively and colorful cocktail that brings a berry twist to the traditional gin fizz. This sparkling drink combines sloe gin, citrus, sweetener, and sparkling water. It’s known for its cheerful, ruby hue and can include an egg white for a frothy finish.
What Exactly is Sloe?
Sloe (pronounced “slow”) is a fruit native to England, commonly found in thorny hedges. Slightly larger than a blueberry and related to plums, sloe has a sour and bitter flavor similar to plum. When combined with sugar, it can be transformed into delicious jams, syrups, and the well-loved sloe gin.
Popular Sloe Gin Brands
While most sloe gin brands originate from England, such as Hayman’s and Plymouth, there are a few American producers like Spirit Works and Averell that use sloe berries or plums.
Flavors and Ingredients
Sloe gin is often infused with warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom, making it a perfect holiday beverage.
Choosing Citrus for Your Fizz
Traditionally, fresh lemon juice is used for a sloe gin fizz, but lime juice is a wonderful alternative that complements the berry and floral notes of the gin. Test both and see which suits your taste best.
Consider Adding an Egg White
For a foamy texture and silky-smooth finish, an egg white can be added to the cocktail. Shake the egg white with sloe gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup without ice first to create foam, then add ice to chill and dilute the drink. If you’re concerned about raw egg whites, opt for pasteurized egg whites or use aquafaba as a vegan alternative.
How to Serve
Serve your sloe gin fizz in a 12-ounce glass, like a Collins glass, ensuring it’s roomy enough for ice and ingredients. Garnish with a lemon or lime wheel to indicate the citrus used.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- Ice for the shaker
- 2 ounces sloe gin
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
- ¾ ounce simple syrup
- 3 ounces chilled sparkling water
- Lemon wheel (optional)
Instructions:
-
Shake the Ingredients Together:
- Fill a cocktail shaker two-thirds full with ice.
- Add sloe gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for 20 seconds.
- Strain and Serve:
- Strain the mixture into a Collins glass.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel if desired.
Enjoy crafting your sloe gin fizz and make sure to rate the recipe if you loved it!
