White Lady Cocktail Recipe

The White Lady cocktail is a classic gin-based drink that dates back to the 1920s. It was created by Harry MacElhone, the owner of the famous Harry's New York Bar in Paris. This cocktail is popular among gin lovers and those who enjoy a refreshing, citrusy drink. The White Lady has a sophisticated and elegant appearance, making it a popular choice for upscale events and gatherings.

The White Lady has a delicate balance of sweet and sour flavors, with a hint of citrus from the lemon juice. The gin provides a strong, herbal backbone, while the orange liqueur adds a touch of sweetness and complexity. The egg white gives the cocktail a smooth, velvety texture that is both light and refreshing.

• The White Lady is sometimes referred to as a 'gin sour' due to its combination of gin, lemon juice, and sugar.
• The addition of egg white in the recipe is optional, but it creates a frothy, creamy texture that many people enjoy.
• The cocktail is traditionally served in a chilled coupe glass, which helps to maintain its cold temperature and elegant presentation.

1. Chill the coupe glass: Place the coupe glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill.
2. Combine ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, orange liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
3. Dry shake: Shake the cocktail shaker without ice for about 10 seconds to emulsify the egg white and create a frothy texture.
4. Add ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake again for another 10-15 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail.
5. Strain and serve: Double strain the cocktail into the chilled coupe glass to remove any ice chips or bits of egg white.
6. Garnish: Express the oils from the orange peel over the cocktail and place it on the rim of the glass.

• Use fresh citrus juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give the cocktail a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
• Double strain: To ensure a smooth texture, double strain the cocktail to remove any bits of egg white.
• Chill your glass: A chilled glass will keep your cocktail colder for longer, enhancing its refreshing qualities.

Seafood

Try pairing the White Lady with delicate seafood like shrimp cocktail or light fish dishes that won’t overpower the drink's elegant citrus notes.

Appetizers

The acidity in the White Lady pairs well with creamy appetizers such as deviled eggs, or pair it with savoury canapés at a cocktail party for a sophisticated match.

Salads

A fresh green salad with a citrus-based dressing could complement the zesty lemon profile of the cocktail, making for a refreshing combination.

Desserts

Finish off with a dessert that has a bit of tang, like a lemon tart or citrus sorbet, to echo the bright flavors of the drink.

• Gin: If you're not a fan of gin, you can substitute it with vodka.
• Orange Liqueur: If you don't have orange liqueur, you can use Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
• Egg White: If you're vegan or allergic to eggs, you can use aquafaba (chickpea water) as a substitute.

Berry Lady

Substitute 0.5 oz orange liqueur with 0.5 oz crème de mure (blackberry liqueur), and add a few fresh blackberries. You'll end up with a fruitier concoction with a beautiful violet hue. Muddle the berries before the dry shake to infuse the gin with berry goodness.

Herbal Lady

Use 2 oz of a herb-infused gin, like a rosemary or basil variant. This twist takes you to a garden of delight, where the herbaceous gin dances with the citrusy groove. Just don't forget to smack the herbs before infusing the gin - it tickles out the flavors.

Spiced Lady

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small slice of jalapeño to the shaker. Looking for a cocktail with a kick? The spice will not only nudge the gin but will also give you a pleasantly warm afterglow. Spice to taste, unless you want to turn your lady into a fire-breathing dragon.