Gin Sling cocktail in old-fashioned glass, served with traditional garnish

Ordinary Drink

Gin Sling

The Gin Sling is a refreshing cocktail that combines the botanical notes of gin with the sweetness of cherry brandy and the tartness of fresh citrus juices. Typically garnished with a cherry or a slice of lemon, this vibrant drink offers a delightful balance of flavors, making it a perfect choice for warm evenings or festive gatherings. Enjoy it over ice for a crisp and invigorating experience.

  • refreshing
  • herbal
  • fruity
  • slightly bitter
Elena
By ElenaClassic Cocktails & Gin ExpertPublished Reviewed
Prep Time
5 min
Glass
Old-fashioned glass
Difficulty
Easy
Yields
1 serving
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Few ordinary drink recipes deliver refreshing and herbal quite like the Gin Sling. It leads with gin and comes together in about 5 minutes. If you've searched for "summer party", this is the recipe to bookmark.

Ingredients

Serves
1 serving
Glass
Old-fashioned glass
Prep
5 min
  • 2 ozGin
  • Juice of 1/2Lemon
  • 1 tspPowdered sugar
  • 1 tspWater
  • Twist ofOrange peel

Method

Preparation

  1. 01

    Dissolve powdered sugar in mixture of water and juice of lemon. Add gin. Pour into an old-fashioned glass over ice cubes and stir. Add the twist of orange peel and serve.

Origin

History & Origins

The Gin Sling originated in colonial Singapore and Southeast Asia, representing the fusion of British gin culture with tropical Asian influences. This historical drink became iconic through literary references and remains a testament to the British colonial tradition of enjoying gin-based drinks in warm climates.

Bartender’s Insight

Pro Tips

Serve over crushed ice in a tall glass

From Elena

  • use quality gin

  • add cherry brandy or cherry liqueur

  • fresh lime juice essential

  • garnish with cherry and citrus wheel

At the Table

Perfect Pairings

Southeast Asian cuisine
satay
spring rolls
coconut-based dishes
tropical fruit desserts
Thai curry appetizers
fresh pineapple

Beyond the Classic

Variations

Singapore Sling

The classic Singapore version with pineapple juice

Cherry Sling

cherry liqueur-forward interpretation

Tropical Sling

tropical fruit variations

Questions

Frequently Asked

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