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Top 12 Classic Gin Cocktails for Menus
Give your bartending game a boost of botanicals with these 12 classic gin cocktail recipes.
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
A selection of well-crafted classic gin cocktails is a must for any bar menu. These timeless drinks are not only crowd favorites but also reflect the sophistication and versatility of your venue. From the Singapore Sling to the Dry Martini, below is a list of 12 classic gin cocktail recipes to choose from, each guaranteed to make a lasting impression on your guests.
1. Tanqueray Gin & Tonic
The Gin & Tonic is a timeless menu staple that every bartender should master. Known for its crisp and refreshing profile, this cocktail allows the gin’s botanicals to really come into their own. It’s a drink that allows for lots of creativity, with opportunities to customize with different types of mixers, garnishes, and flavors.
2. Gordon's French 75
French 75 is a sophisticated gin classic that combines the botanical depth of gin with the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice, topped off with champagne for a celebratory touch. This cocktail gives bartenders an opportunity to show off that perfect balance between sweet and tart flavors, bringing guests a cocktail that really creates a buzz!
3. Tanqueray Dry Martini
A true reflection of bartender craftsmanship, the dry martini celebrates simplicity and sophistication. Made with gin and dry vermouth, the cocktail draws out the botanicals for a delicious cocktail, topped off with an olive garnish.
Try the non-alcoholic version with Seedlip, which is just as sophisticated.
4. Singapore Sling
Originating from Singapore’s iconic Raffles Hotel, the Singapore Sling is a vibrant, tropical cocktail that blends complexity and balance. Known for its juicy flavor and eye-catching presentation, the Singapore Sling is a crowd-pleaser that will bring an exotic feel to your menu.
5. Gimlet
The Gimlet is a minimalist classic that requires balance. Made with Tanqueray London Dry gin, lime cordial, or fresh lime juice and simple syrup, it’s a great classic to recommend to guests looking for something simple yet zesty.
6. Negroni
A bold classic with an Italian accent, the Negroni will showcase your bartending skills when creating a beautiful harmony between its contrasting flavors. Served over ice with an orange twist, this cocktail will appeal to seasoned drinkers or those looking to try something different.
7. Gordon's Gin Fizz
Another appealing classic, the Gin Fizz combines gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of soda water. Alternative ingredients include combining egg white for a frothy finish or, in the case of the Ramos Gin Fizz, adding cream and orange flower water to the mix. It never fails to impress with its clean, crisp, and refreshing flavors.
8. Bramble #10
A modern classic, introduced in the 1980s, the Bramble’s unique ingredients make it a standout gin cocktail. The combination of flavors from the gin botanicals, blackberries, simple syrup, and lemon juice makes for a sweet and refreshing cocktail, not to mention great for showcasing seasonal ingredients.
9. Cherry Aviation
Not dissimilar to a gin sour, The Aviation’s addition of maraschino and crème de violette requires skill in balancing the bold, citrus, and floral flavors. Served straight up in either a martini or coupe glass with a violet hue and cherry garnish, the Aviation appeals to guests seeking something timeless and well-balanced.
10. Light and Limey Ten Rickey
The Ten Rickey is a good choice for bringing a casual, flavorful experience to any menu. A summer favorite, the Ten Rickey’s combination of gin, lime juice, soda water, and simple syrup makes it a refreshing and exciting option when the weather warms up.
11. Long Island Iced Tea
Long Island Iced Tea requires skill in combining gin with a variety of spirits (tequila, rum, triple sec, and vodka), plus lemon juice and cola, to make a cocktail that is brimming with flavor and is definitely a crowd-pleaser.
12. Gin Basil Smash
Only invented in 2008, the Gin Basil Smash is a great opportunity to showcase creativity with natural ingredients. Typically made with gin, basil leaves, simple syrup, and lemon juice, with a garnish of basil or a slice of lemon, the Gin Basil Smash brings a twist to the classic gin cocktail that is very much welcomed by guests.