Ramos Gin Fizz Cocktail Recipe

The Ramos Gin Fizz is one of those classic cocktails that gets everything right. The flavor, the texture – everything. It’s stood the test of time and remains a favorite among mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Ramos Gin Fizz cocktail in tall glass on bar

We’ll take a look at the drink’s history and some expert tips on how to master the perfect preparation techniques and ways to put your own spin on this beloved classic. So, get ready to grab your shaker, stock up on gin and cream, and let’s get started on mastering the art of making the perfect Ramos Gin Fizz.

History: The Origins of the Ramos Gin Fizz and Its Impact on Cocktail Culture

The Ramos Gin Fizz, also known as the “New Orleans Fizz,” was first created in 1888 by Henry Charles. Ramos, a bartender at the Imperial Cabinet Saloon in New Orleans. The cocktail became an instant sensation and was soon served all over the city. 

The recipe for the Ramos Gin Fizz has remained unchanged for over 130 years. The popularity of the drink is said to have led to Ramos hiring a team of bartenders who would work together to shake each cocktail for a full 12 minutes until it achieved its signature frothy texture.

The drink became so popular that during Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, Ramos employed up to 20 of these “shaker men” at a time were shaking up hundreds of glasses of this delicious cocktail. 

But relax. You don’t need to shake it that long. No one does anymore. All those bartenders may have just been a bit of theater to enhance the experience for bar patrons.

The impact of the Ramos Gin Fizz on cocktail culture cannot be overstated. It set new standards for quality and consistency that are still respected in modern times. Today the drink remains an iconic part of American cocktail history and is enjoyed by enthusiasts all over the world.

Ingredients: What you need to make the perfect Ramos Gin Fizz

The Ramos Gin Fizz is a complex cocktail, and it requires some uncommon ingredients that may not be available in your usual grocery store. To make the perfect Ramos Gin Fizz, you will need:

  • Gin
  • Heavy cream
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh lime juice
  • Simple syrup
  • Orange-flower water
  • Vanilla extract
  • Egg white
  • Club soda

Gin is the most important ingredient in a Ramos Gin Fizz, and it’s essential to use a good-quality gin. Ramos’s original recipe called for Old Tom gin, and you still can’t beat it.

Heavy cream gives the cocktail its characteristic smooth texture, while the combination of lemon and lime juice provides a balanced sour taste. Simple syrup adds sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.

The egg white is what makes this drink so unique. It creates a frothy foam on top of the cocktail that makes it look almost like a milkshake. Finally, orange blossom water adds a subtle floral note that complements the other flavors perfectly.

You don’t need any garnish for this drink. If you want to dress it up, edible flowers would be an interesting item to use.

Preparation: Step-by-step Instructions to Make a Ramos Gin Fizz

Making a Ramos Gin Fizz requires a bit of patience and attention to detail, but the end result is well worth it.

The Dry Shake Method

First, you’ll add all ingredients except the club soda in a cocktail shaker without ice, and you’ll shake it that way first. This is called dry shaking and it’s all about breaking the egg up completely. It’s this technique that’s going to save you all those minutes of shaking the usual way.

Then you’re going to add ice and shake it again, for longer. That will really get everything mixed perfectly, and also chilled. And then finally, you’ll be topping it with soda water to puff up the egg foam on top.

Making a Ramos Gin Fizz may take some extra effort compared to other cocktails, but once you taste it, you’ll know that it was time well spent. The frothy texture and delicate balance of flavors make this classic cocktail one that every home bartender should have in their repertoire.

Egg Substitutes

If you don’t like using raw egg in your drink, you can use aquafaba. That is the liquid you drain from a can of chickpeas. 

It may sound weird and gross, but it whips into something that tastes and feels very much like egg foam.

Tips and Tricks: Expert Advice to Make the Perfect Cocktail Every Time

Making a Ramos Gin Fizz is not rocket science, but it does require a bit of know-how to get it just right. Here are some expert tips and tricks to make the perfect cocktail every time.

Firstly, use fresh ingredients. Fresh lemon juice, lime juice and egg whites are key to achieving that frothy texture so characteristic of a Ramos Gin Fizz. You can make your own simple syrup if you like.

Secondly, shake vigorously. The secret behind the silky smooth texture of a Ramos Gin Fizz is in the shaking technique. This ensures that all ingredients are fully incorporated and creates the signature creamy texture.

Variations: How to put a unique spin on the classic Ramos Gin Fizz Recipe

It might be considered heresy to suggest changing this recipe. It’s lasted this long for a reason, after all. But you can try some changes if you want.

One option is to switch up the citrus juice used in the recipe, such as using grapefruit or blood orange juice instead of lemon and lime. 

Another option is to add a flavored syrup, such as lavender or rosemary, to give your cocktail an herbal note.

Perfect Pairings: Serving suggestions to go with your Ramos Gin Fizz

The Ramos Gin Fizz is a perfect drink for brunch or any time of day when you want something light and refreshing. Its creamy texture and hint of citrus make it an excellent choice to enjoy with breakfast or lunch.

For a classic pairing, serve the cocktail with a plate of Southern-style fried chicken, which perfectly complements the tangy flavor of the drink. Alternatively, try serving it with eggs benedict, avocado toast or crispy bacon.

If you’re looking for something more savory to pair with your Ramos Gin Fizz, shrimp and grits are an excellent option. The spiciness of the dish complements the sweetness of the cocktail perfectly.

For a vegetarian option, try pairing it with grilled mushrooms or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, try making some creole or cajun dishes to go along your Ramos Gin Fizz.

No matter what you choose to pair with your Ramos Gin Fizz, remember that this cocktail is all about balance in flavors and textures. It’s ideal for any occasion where lightness is called for – whether that’s brunch on a lazy Sunday morning or enjoying a sunset on warm summer evenings.

The Ramos Gin Fizz Experience: Describe the taste, presentation, and overall experience of drinking a Ramos Gin Fizz

Drinking a Ramos Gin Fizz is not just about the taste – it’s an experience in itself. This cocktail is known for its velvety texture and frothy top, which comes from the heavy cream and egg white.

Upon first sip, you’ll notice the subtle floral notes from the orange blossom water and the creamy flavor from the egg white foam.

The citrusy freshness from lemon juice and tanginess from lime juice give it a nice zing. As you continue to drink, you’ll appreciate how smooth and easy-to-drink this cocktail is.

The delicate balance of flavors makes it perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a hot summer day or a cozy winter night. It’s one of those drinks that everyone can enjoy.

Why the Ramos Gin Fizz is a Must-Try cocktail

The Ramos Gin Fizz is a delightful cocktail that has stood the test of time for over 100 years. With its light and frothy texture, hints of citrus, and subtle sweetness, it’s no wonder why this New Orleans classic has remained a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.

While the preparation may require some patience and effort, taking the time to make a Ramos Gin Fizz is well worth it for the taste and overall experience. So go ahead and give it a try — you won’t be disappointed!

Ramos Gin Fizz cocktail in tall glass on bar

Ramos Gin Fizz Recipe

Yield: 1 drink
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes

The Ramos Gin Fizz is a fantastic classic cocktail, with gin, lemon, lime, cream and a hint of lower. Use the dry shake method to cut prep time way down.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz gin
  • 3/4 oz heavy cream
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • 3 dashes of orange blossom water
  • 3 drops of vanilla extract
  • Egg white (or aquafaba)
  • Soda water

Instructions

  1. Add the gin, half an ounce of fresh lemon juice, half an ounce of fresh lime juice, 1 ounce of heavy cream, half an ounce of simple syrup, and 3-4 drops of orange flower water to a shaker. Do not add ice.
  2. Shake vigorously for at least 10 seconds. This will help emulsify the cream and egg and give the cocktail its signature frothy texture.
  3. Add ice to the shaker and shake for another 20 seconds. This will create even more foam.
  4. Strain the mixture into a tall collins glass filled with ice.
  5. Top with soda water until the foam reaches just above the rim of the glass.

Follow me on Pinterest for more great recipes!

Or share this post on Pinterest!

 

Enjoy the post? Why not share it?

Last Updated:

January 16, 2024