Meet the Fitzgerald: a gin cocktail that’s quickly becoming a modern classic. Think of it like a Gin Sour, but with a special something.
This balanced and refreshing drink is perfect for just about any occasion. It brings together gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of Angostura bitters. The result? A unique blend of tart, sweet, and spicy flavors.
The Fitzgerald is gaining popularity and recognition, earning its place among modern cocktail legends like the Penicillin and Paper Plane.
History and origins
The Fitzgerald cocktail was created in the 1990s by Dale DeGroff at the Rainbow Room Promenade Bar. A customer asked DeGroff to make him a new gin drink, so DeGroff concocted this refreshing, balanced beverage.
DeGroff named the drink after author F. Scott Fitzgerald, who, it’s widely known, was a fan of gin. The name conjures up a feeling of classic elegance and literary charm.
The anatomy of a Fitzgerald: Ingredients and ratios
While you can riff on the Fitzgerald, the classic recipe is a study in simplicity.
Core components
- Gin: A good London Dry or Navy Strength gin is the base of this cocktail. A higher-proof gin will stand up better, especially if you’re serving the drink on the rocks.
- Fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the drink its essential tartness and acidity.
- Simple syrup: Simple syrup gives the drink just enough sweetness to balance the lemon juice. It’s easy to make at home, too.
The magic of bitters
- Angostura bitters: Angostura bitters are the defining ingredient in a Fitzgerald. They add complexity, spice, and enhance the gin’s natural botanicals.
Ratios and customization
The standard recipe calls for 1 1/2 oz gin, 3/4 oz lemon juice, 3/4 oz simple syrup, and 2-4 dashes of Angostura bitters. Feel free to adjust the ratios to suit your own tastes, adding a little more simple syrup for a sweeter drink or a splash more lemon juice for a tarter one.
How to make a Fitzgerald cocktail
Here’s how to make the perfect Fitzgerald, step by step:
1. Gather your tools and ingredients
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Cocktail glass (coupe or rocks glass)
- Gin
- Fresh lemon juice
- Simple syrup
- Angostura bitters
- Ice
2. Mixing Instructions
- Add all ingredients to the shaker.
- Add ice after adding all ingredients to the shaker to avoid dilution.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Double strain into a chilled glass.
3. Garnishing
- Add a lemon twist or slice.
Variations and expert tips
Once you’ve mastered the basic Fitzgerald, you can start playing around with the recipe to create a drink that’s uniquely yours.
Bitters exploration
Bitters can add a whole new dimension to the Fitzgerald. Cranberry bitters or orange bitters can add an interesting twist. Or, experiment with bitters that contain cinnamon or cardamom for a spicy cocktail.
Gin selection
The type of gin you use can significantly alter the character of the drink. For a color-changing cocktail, try Empress 1908 Gin, which gets its blue hue from butterfly pea flowers. Other gins that work well in the Fitzgerald include Bombay Sapphire, Hendrick’s, and Teasmith Gin.
Adjusting sweetness and tartness
Adjust the ratios of lemon juice and simple syrup to your preference. For a less sweet drink, use 1 ounce of lemon juice instead of ¾ ounce. This ratio is the same as what’s used in a daiquiri.
Strength modification
If you like a stronger drink, increase the gin to 2 ounces.
The Bottom Line
The Fitzgerald is beloved for its perfect balance, its simplicity, and its versatility. It’s a modern classic, a testament to Dale DeGroff’s creativity and the enduring appeal of gin cocktails.
But don’t just take our word for it. The Fitzgerald is a blank canvas for your own experimentation. Try different gins, different bitters, different ratios. Find the Fitzgerald that’s perfect for you, and enjoy!