Sloe Gin Fizz

What is Sloe Gin?

One of our most popular cocktails is the Sloe Gin Fizz and we are often asked "What is Sloe Gin?" Sloe Gin is a traditional British spirit made by soaking sloe berries (a relative of the plum) in gin. Despite the British origin of the spirit, however, the Sloe Gin Fizz is actually an American pre-prohibition cocktail dating back to 1887. As with all cocktail ingredients it is important to use a high quality sloe gin such as Hayman's (our favourite), Plymouth or Sipsmith. Please avoid the inexpensive, syrupy, imitation sloe gins that you used for your Alabama Slammer's in college. Along with lemon juice and simple syrup we add some aquafaba - the liquid from a can of chick peas - and shake a second time with ice to give it a beautiful foamy top when served up.

Ingredients

1 1/2 oz. sloe gin

1 oz. fresh lemon juice

1/2 oz. aquafaba (or 1 egg white) - optional

3/4 oz. simple syrup

Sparkling wine, champagne, prosecco

Lemon peel garnish

Shake sloe gin, lemon juice, syrup and aquafaba. Add ice to shaker and vigorously shake again. Strain into coupe glass and top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a lemon peel.

Photo Cred: Amy O’Shea, Co-Owner J.B. Percival Co

Amy O'Shea and her husband Billy are the proprietors of J.B. Percival Co., Fairfield's only cocktail lounge, located at 63 Unquowa Road, on Donnelly Walk