Red Lion Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 20%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 15g
Prep time 3 minutes

Imagine you’re about to sip the perfect summer day, all chilled and zesty in a glass. The Red Lion cocktail is just that—a refreshing mix that dances on your taste buds, combining fruity and citrus flavors with a hint of sweetness. Today, we’ll explore its vibrant history, unique taste, and how you can craft your own at home, so stick with us to uncover the secrets of this delightful drink. ⬇️

History

The Red Lion cocktail is a classic drink that has been enjoyed for decades. It was created in the early 20th century and has since become a favorite for cocktail enthusiasts around the world. The drink’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal.

• The Red Lion was first mixed in the 1930s, gaining fame in European cocktail circles.
• It’s believed to be named after the many ‘Red Lion’ pubs and inns dotted across Britain.
• The cocktail’s striking color and bold taste quickly made it a signature drink at upscale gatherings.

The taste of a Red Lion?

A sip of the Red Lion cocktail is like a burst of sunshine with a sweet and sour embrace. Its main flavors come from the tangy orange of Grand Marnier and the tartness of lemon juice, balanced with the sweetness of grenadine.

I personally love Red Lion cocktails for their vibrant color and perfect balance of sweet and sour—it’s like a sunset in a glass.

Interesting facts about Red Lion

• The Red Lion is often associated with the Art Deco period, reflecting its stylish and sophisticated nature.
• This cocktail has a signature two-toned appearance, which comes from carefully layering ingredients.
• Despite its British-sounding name, the Red Lion has a cosmopolitan flair, enjoyed by drinkers worldwide.

Ingredients 📃

• Gin: 1.5 oz (45ml)
• Grand Marnier: 0.5 oz (15ml)
• Orange juice: 1 oz (30ml)
• Lemon juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
• Grenadine: 1 teaspoon (5ml)

A cocktail glass is the best choice for serving a Red Lion, as its wide brim allows the aroma to enhance the drinking experience. Alternatively, a coupe glass could also be suitable, offering a similarly elegant presentation.

Recipe. How to make Red Lion 🍹

1. Fill a shaker with ice and add 1.5 oz of Gin and 0.5 oz of Grand Marnier.
2. Pour in 1 oz of Orange juice and 0.5 oz of Lemon juice for a citrusy kick.
3. Add a dash of grenadine for sweetness and color, then shake vigorously.
4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a twist of orange peel.

Enjoying a Red Lion cocktail should be done in moderation, as it contains sugar and calories. To make a healthier version, try using natural sweeteners and less grenadine, balancing enjoyment with mindfulness.

Food Pairings

The right food can make a good cocktail great, enhancing the flavors and creating a memorable pairing. From savory to sweet, here are a few dishes that go hand-in-hand with the Red Lion.

Spicy Tapas

The sweetness of the Red Lion complements spicy tapas beautifully, helping to soothe the palate after a fiery bite.

Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken, with its smoky and savory notes, pairs wonderfully with the citrus undertones of the cocktail.

Chocolate Desserts

For a decadent combination, try a Red Lion with a rich chocolate dessert; the bitterness of the cocoa is a delightful contrast to the drink’s sweetness.

I have to admit, I’m quite fond of the Red Lion’s cheerful disposition; it’s like a glass of liquid joy, perfect for lifting the spirits.

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Bartender Advice

• Always chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cold and refreshing.
• Use freshly squeezed citrus juices to ensure the brightest flavor.
• When adding grenadine, pour it slowly to create a beautiful layering effect in the glass.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Red Lion, 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 Red Lion

• Gin: Could be swapped for vodka if you prefer a smoother base.
• Grand Marnier: Triple sec can be used as an alternative for a lighter orange flavor.
• Grenadine: For a less sweet version, reduce the amount or use a pomegranate syrup.

Red Lion Variations

Pink Lion

• Ingredients: Replace grenadine with raspberry syrup.
• Recipe: Follow the classic recipe but top with a splash of soda water for added fizz.

Golden Lion

• Ingredients: Add a splash of peach schnapps.
• Recipe: Mix as usual and garnish with a peach slice for a fruity twist.

Blue Lion

• Ingredients: Use blue curaçao instead of Grand Marnier.
• Recipe: Combine ingredients and serve with a cherry for a burst of color.

For those who prefer to skip the alcohol, a Virgin Red Lion can be just as delightful. Simply replace the gin and Grand Marnier with additional orange juice and a splash of lemon-lime soda.

Q&A

What’s the best time of year to enjoy a Red Lion?

Really, any season is perfect for a Red Lion, but it’s especially refreshing during the warm summer months.

Can I use bottled citrus juice instead of fresh?

While bottled juice is convenient, using fresh juice makes a remarkable difference in the cocktail’s vibrancy.

What’s the ideal garnish for a Red Lion?

A classic orange twist or a cherry complements the cocktail’s flavors and adds an elegant touch.

Is the Red Lion a strong cocktail?

It has a good kick to it, thanks to the gin, but the other ingredients mellow it out for a perfectly balanced sip.

How can I make a non-alcoholic Red Lion more interesting?

Experiment with different syrups or muddled fruits to add complexity and depth to the non-alcoholic version.

Can the Red Lion be batched for parties?

Absolutely! Mix the ingredients in a large pitcher, but add the grenadine to individual glasses when serving to maintain the layered look.