Introduction
The Pink Lady is a cocktail that exudes elegance and charm, with its soft blush hue and delicate balance of flavors. This vintage classic has been gracing the cocktail scene since the early 20th century, often associated with the sophisticated socialites of the era. With its blend of gin and apple brandy, complemented by the sweetness of grenadine and the tartness of lemon juice, the Pink Lady offers a refined taste that has stood the test of time.
The origins of the Pink Lady are somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it gained popularity during the Prohibition era in the United States. Its name is believed to be inspired by the 1911 Broadway musical of the same name, which starred the glamorous Hazel Dawn. Whether enjoyed in a speakeasy or a modern cocktail bar, the Pink Lady remains a symbol of classic cocktail craftsmanship.
A fun fact about the Pink Lady is its versatility. While the traditional recipe calls for gin and apple brandy, many bartenders have put their own spin on it by experimenting with different base spirits and flavor profiles. However, the signature frothy texture, achieved by shaking with egg white, remains a constant, adding a luxurious mouthfeel to this already sophisticated drink.
Ingredients
To create a Pink Lady that captures the essence of this classic cocktail, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Gin: Opt for a London dry gin for a crisp, botanical flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- 0.5 oz Apple Brandy: Calvados or another quality apple brandy adds a rich, fruity depth to the cocktail.
- 0.75 oz Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for a bright, tangy kick.
- 0.75 oz Simple Syrup: A simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water provides the perfect balance of sweetness.
- 0.25 oz Grenadine: Grenadine, made from pomegranate juice, gives the Pink Lady its signature blush color and a hint of fruitiness.
- 1 Egg White: Egg white is key for that silky, frothy texture that elevates the drink.
- 1 Ice: Ice is used to chill and dilute the cocktail to the perfect consistency.
- 1 Brandied Cherries: Brandied cherries make for an elegant garnish, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Instructions
Crafting a Pink Lady is an art form that requires precision and technique. Follow these steps to achieve mixology perfection:
- Dry shake all the ingredients.
- Shake again with ice.
- Double strain into a rocks glass over 1 large ice cube.
- Garnish with the cherries.
Tips
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice can compromise the cocktail's taste.
- For a richer texture, try using superfine sugar in your simple syrup to ensure it dissolves completely.
- If you're concerned about using raw egg white, consider using pasteurized egg white or aquafaba as a vegan alternative.
- Experiment with different brands of gin and apple brandy to find the combination that suits your palate best.
- For an extra touch of elegance, serve the Pink Lady in a chilled coupe glass instead of a rocks glass.
Conclusion
The Pink Lady cocktail is a testament to the timeless allure of classic mixology. Its harmonious blend of flavors and captivating presentation make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and novices alike. Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Pink Lady is sure to impress with its sophistication and charm.
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Pink Lady recipe adapted from Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails by David Kaplan, Nick Fauchald, and Alex Day.
