Pink Gin Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 25%
Calories 150 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 0g
Prep time 2 minutes

Let’s embark on a journey to the heart of a classic: the Pink Gin cocktail. Imagine a refreshing blend that dances on your palate with a graceful harmony of bitter and sweet. As we delve deeper into its history, flavors, and the art of its creation, join us in crafting the perfect sip of this storied drink. ⬇️

History

Pink Gin started its life in the mid-19th century, loved by the Royal Navy for its medicinal qualities. The drink was a staple among British sailors to fight off seasickness. Its significance extended beyond the decks, becoming a cherished cocktail in England.

• Pink Gin gets its rosy hue from a splash of Angostura bitters, a botanical concoction.
• The name ‘Pink Gin’ comes from its distinct color, not from any fruit or sweet flavorings.
• Originally, Pink Gin was served without ice, reflecting the limited amenities aboard ships.

The taste of a Pink Gin?

A Pink Gin tantalizes with a bold, spicy kick from the bitters, softened by the smooth, juniper-infused embrace of gin. It’s a sophisticated, warm sip with a touch of herbal intrigue.

I find Pink Gin delightful because it’s a simple classic that delivers complexity in each sip.

Interesting facts about Pink Gin

• The cocktail is often associated with sophistication and the British naval tradition.
• Though simple, the ingredients of Pink Gin were once considered remedies for tropical diseases.
• Modern Pink Gins sometimes include a twist of lemon for an extra zesty note.

Ingredients 📃

• Gin: 2 oz (60 ml)
• Angostura bitters: a few dashes

Highball glass is the traditional choice for Pink Gin, allowing the color and clarity to shine through. An alternative, the martini glass, also works well, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation.

Recipe. How to make Pink Gin 🍹

1. Pour a few dashes of Angostura bitters into a glass.
2. Swirl the bitters around to coat the inside of the glass and discard the excess.
3. Add 2 oz (60 ml) of gin to the coated glass.
4. Stir the mixture gently.
5. Garnish with a twist of lemon, if desired.

Pink Gins can be quite strong and might not be the healthiest option, but they’re lower in sugar than many cocktails. To make a healthier version, opt for a gin with natural botanicals and limit the bitters to control the alcohol content.

Food Pairings

Discovering the perfect food match for a Pink Gin can elevate your experience. The right pairing complements the drink’s botanicals and enhances its rich history.

Salted Nuts

The saltiness of nuts like almonds or cashews brings out the botanical sharpness of a Pink Gin, creating a satisfying contrast in flavors.

Cured Meats

The spiced notes of Pink Gin align beautifully with the savory depth of cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami.

Cheese Platter

A cheese platter offers a variety of textures and flavors that mingle with the Pink Gin’s complexity, from creamy brie to sharp cheddar.

I adore Pink Gins—the simple elegance and botanical zest make them irresistible.

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Bartender Advice

• Chill the glass before serving to enhance the crispness of the gin.
• Experiment with the number of dashes of bitters to find your perfect balance.
• The quality of gin makes a significant difference, so choose wisely.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Pink Gin, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Pink Gin

• Gin: Try using an Old Tom gin for a sweeter taste.
• Bitters: Experiment with different bitters like orange or grapefruit for a twist.
• Garnish: A sprig of rosemary or mint can add a fresh aroma.

Pink Gin Variations

Rosy Martini

• Ingredients: Gin, dry vermouth, raspberry syrup, lemon juice
• Recipe: Shake with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass

Spiced Pink Gin

• Ingredients: Gin, cinnamon, cardamom, Angostura bitters
• Recipe: Stir with ice and strain into an old-fashioned glass

Citrus Pink Fizz

• Ingredients: Gin, Angostura bitters, pink grapefruit juice, soda water
• Recipe: Build in a glass over ice and top with soda

For a non-alcoholic version, mix tonic water with a dash of bitters and a twist of lemon. It’s a refreshing alternative with a similar bite.

Q&A

Can Pink Gin be served on the rocks?

Absolutely, serving it on the rocks can mellow the flavors for a smoother experience.

Is Pink Gin very strong?

Yes, it’s quite potent given its gin base, but the bitters add a nuanced flavor that’s not just about strength.

What are Angostura bitters made of?

The exact recipe is a secret, but it’s known to contain water, ethanol, gentian, herbs, and spices.

Can I make Pink Gin without alcohol?

Sure, just use non-alcoholic gin and bitters for a similar-tasting mocktail.

What’s the best gin to use for Pink Gin?

A classic London dry gin is typically recommended for its clean, juniper-forward profile.

How did sailors use Pink Gin medicinally?

The bitters were believed to help with seasickness, while gin was a common medicinal spirit on ships.