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The Singapore Sling is one of the most iconic and beloved cocktails in the world. It’s vibrant and fruity, and an absolute must-try.

The Singapore Sling looks like a glass of Koolaid, but don’t let that fool you. The taste is complex, with sweet, tangy and bitter notes all jumbled together wonderfully.

The original recipe was probably created in the Raffles Hotel in Singapore in the early 1900s, then forgotten for a while, then re-created from the memories of bartenders. Then it got completely revamped, probably in the ’70s.

Over the years, the Singapore Sling has evolved and been adapted by bartenders around the world, with many interpretations and variations. But the core essence of the original recipe, with its distinctive flavors and elegant presentation, has always stayed the same.

The original recipe was much simpler than the modern version, which contains 7 or more ingredients depending on the recipe. Mos drinkers prefer the modern versions.

And then there are several variations on the modern version, so I’m going with a recipe that’s a little bit dryer (my preference), but then I’ll tell you how to make it sweeter if that’s your preference.

What’s In the Singapore Sling?

You may not have everything you need for this drink on hand, but it’s worth buying a few bottles to make it happen.

The Singapore Sling is a complex and nuanced cocktail, with a carefully curated blend of ingredients that work together to create its signature flavor profile. While the exact recipe may vary slightly from one establishment to another, the core components include:

Gin

This liquor provides the base spirit and contributes to the overall balance and structure of the drink. Choose a good gin that you like.

Cherry liqueur

Cherry Heering is a good choice. This gives the drink part of its fruity flavor. Don’t use a maraschino liqueur.

Bénédictine

Bénédictine is a herbal liqueur with a complex and aromatic flavor profile. It contains a blend of 27 different herbs and spices, including honey, saffron, and citrus peel.

It’s used in cocktails to add depth and sweetness, and it contributes to this drink’s unique and sophisticated taste.

Tropical Fruit Juices

Fresh pineapple and lime juice add bright citrus tang to the flavor profile.

Grenadine

This pomegranate-based syrup that gives the drink its red hue and fruity flavor. Choose a quality grenadine or make your own grenadine!

Optional soda water

This ingredient lightens the cocktail, adding a subtle effervescence and diluting the strength of the other ingredients.

The Flavor of the Singapore Sling

This drink’s blend of gin, cherry liqueur, Bénédictine, and tropical fruit juices creates a truly distinctive and captivating flavor profile that sets it apart from other cocktails. You just have to try it.

It’s sweet, tangy and bitter, all in the right proportions.

Presentation & When to Serve

The vibrant pink hue and the layered effect of the grenadine in the Singapore Sling make it a visually stunning cocktail, adding to its allure and appeal.

It’s worthy of any cocktail party, especially in summer time. It’s great for casual get-togethers, but it can also make a whimsical choice for more formal gatherings.