Pink gin isn’t just a trendy drink; its roots trace back to the 1800s. This historical elixir has a fascinating origin intertwined with the story of Angostura Bitters and a German doctor named Johann Siegert. While exploring Angostura, Venezuela, Siegert sought a remedy for tropical stomach ailments, leading to the creation of Angostura Bitters in 1824.
Initially utilized by the British Royal Navy to combat seasickness, the intensely bitter Angostura Bitters inspired sailors to mix it with gin, inadvertently inventing the original pink gin cocktail. As this innovative libation gained popularity beyond the naval vessels, its distinct red hue was originally derived from the bitters.
However, modern versions of pink gin owe their sweet flavor and vibrant color to the inclusion of red fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, redcurrants, and occasionally rhubarb in the gin blend. Additionally, the term “spritz” associated with the drink may have originated from Austro-Hungarian troops adding water to their wine in Italy’s Veneto region, with the German word “spritzen,” meaning “splash,” potentially lending credence to this anecdote.
Pink Gin Spritz Ingredients
- Pink Gin (60ml): Choose a quality pink gin with a delicate balance of botanicals and a blush of color.
- Elderflower Liqueur (30ml): Introduce a touch of floral sweetness to complement the botanicals in the pink gin.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (15ml): Squeeze the zesty brightness of fresh lemons to add a citrusy kick to the cocktail.
- Simple Syrup (15ml): Create a harmonious sweetness by combining equal parts water and sugar, simmered until the sugar dissolves.
- Soda Water (60ml): The key to the “spritz” in the cocktail, soda water adds effervescence and lightness.
- Fresh Strawberries (3-4, sliced): Provide a burst of sweetness and a visually appealing touch to your Pink Gin Spritz.
- Ice Cubes: Essential for chilling and diluting the cocktail to achieve the perfect sipping temperature.
- Mint Leaves (for garnish): Elevate the visual appeal and add a refreshing aroma to your Pink Gin Spritz.
Pink Gin Spritz Recipe:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Ensure all your ingredients are ready and within reach. This includes the pink gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, soda water, sliced strawberries, mint leaves for garnish, and ice cubes.
Step 2: Measure and Pour the Pink Gin
In a wine glass or a large balloon glass, measure out 60ml of your chosen pink gin. Pour it into the glass, creating the base for your Pink Gin Spritz.
Step 3: Add Elderflower Liqueur
Measure and add 30ml of elderflower liqueur to the pink gin in the glass. This addition introduces a layer of floral sweetness, complementing the botanicals in the pink gin.
Step 4: Squeeze Fresh Lemon Juice
Add 15ml of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the mix. The citrusy acidity will brighten the flavors and provide a perfect balance to the sweetness of the elderflower liqueur.
Step 5: Add Simple Syrup
Pour 15ml of simple syrup into the glass. This ensures a harmonious sweetness without being overly sugary, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the Pink Gin Spritz.
Step 6: Add Sliced Strawberries
Drop 3-4 sliced strawberries into the glass. The strawberries will infuse the cocktail with a burst of sweetness and add a visually appealing touch.
Step 7: Fill the Glass with Ice
Add ice cubes to the glass, ensuring it’s sufficiently filled to chill the cocktail and maintain its refreshing quality.
Step 8: Top Off with Soda Water
Top off your Pink Gin Spritz with 60ml of soda water. This effervescent addition provides the cocktail with its signature spritz, adding lightness and bubbles.
Step 9: Stir Gently
Give the contents of the glass a gentle stir to ensure all the components are well integrated. This step helps to evenly distribute the flavors and effervescence.
Step 10: Garnish with Mint Leaves
Take a few mint leaves and give them a gentle clap between your hands to release their aroma. Place them in the glass as a garnish, adding a touch of freshness to your Pink Gin Spritz.
Optional Step: Double Strain (Optional)
For a smoother texture, consider double-straining the cocktail by using a fine mesh strainer as you pour it into the glass. This step removes any small bits of strawberry or ice shards.
