Perfect Lady Cocktail Recipe

The Perfect Lady cocktail is a classic drink that dates back to the early 20th century. It's a variation of the White Lady, which was created by Harry MacElhone in 1919 at Ciro’s Club in London. The Perfect Lady became popular for its smooth, fruity flavor and creamy texture, provided by the addition of egg white.

• Who Would Like It: This cocktail is a favorite among those who appreciate a balance of citrus and sweet flavors, with a silky mouthfeel. It's often enjoyed by gin enthusiasts looking for a refreshing yet complex beverage.

The Perfect Lady is a harmonious blend of sweet and sour with a strong gin foundation. The peach liqueur adds a fruity sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon juice. The simple syrup provides a subtle sweetness, while the egg white creates a smooth and frothy texture, making the drink rich and velvety.

• The Perfect Lady can be considered a 'forgotten classic' as it's less commonly found on modern cocktail menus.
• The cocktail's name suggests a certain elegance and refinement, which is reflected in its smooth taste and presentation.
• The use of egg white in cocktails dates back to the 19th century and is used to add texture and a frothy head to the drink.

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker without ice and shake vigorously (dry-shake) to emulsify the egg white.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled.
3. Double-strain through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled cocktail or coupe glass.

• Temperature: Make sure your cocktail glass is well-chilled before serving to keep the drink cold longer.
• Dry-Shake: Don't skip the dry-shake step, as it's crucial for achieving the perfect frothiness from the egg white.
• Straining: Double-straining is important to ensure a smooth texture without any ice shards or egg remnants.

Appetizers

• Fresh seafood: The light and fruity notes of the Perfect Lady cocktail enhance the delicate flavors of fresh oysters or shrimp.
• Soft cheeses: A creamy brie or goat cheese pairs wonderfully with the smooth texture and peachy notes of the drink.

Desserts

• Lemon tart: The tartness in both the lemon tart and the cocktail complement each other, providing a harmonious citrus experience.
• Peach cobbler: Amplify the peachy flavor by pairing with a dessert that echoes this ingredient, such as a warm peach cobbler.

Other Drinks

• Sparkling water with lemon: A non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate and prepares you for the next sip of your cocktail.

• Gin: You can use any premium dry gin if you don't have a specific brand in mind. Hendrick's or Tanqueray are excellent choices.
• Peach Liqueur: If you can't find peach liqueur, try substituting with peach schnapps, though it will be sweeter.
• Egg White: For a vegan option, aquafaba (chickpea water) can be used as a substitute for egg white.

Peachy Keen Martini

• Substitute gin with vodka, add a splash of prosecco, and garnish with a peach slice. You'll get a lighter, bubbly twist on the original, perfect for those who prefer vodka over gin.

Rosy Lady

• Swap out half of the peach liqueur for rose syrup and garnish with a rose petal. This will bring a floral accent to the cocktail, creating a marriage of peach and rose that’s aromatic and elegantly sweet.

Spicy Perfection

• Add a small slice of jalapeño to the shaker with the gin (remove seeds to control heat). This version will create a kick that enlivens the senses, bringing a bold twist to the Perfect Lady.