West Side Cocktail

Cocktails have always been a delightful fusion of art and science, a concoction of flavors and stories that take us on a journey through time and culture. One such intriguing creation is the West Side Cocktail, a captivating variation of the revered Southside Cocktail. With a blend of heritage and innovation, the West Side Cocktail is a testament to the ever-evolving world of mixology.

The Southside Cocktail, an early 20th-century creation, has long been celebrated for its refreshing combination of gin, mint, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Its origins are intertwined with the history of Prohibition-era America, where the need to mask the harsh flavors of homemade spirits gave rise to innovative recipes. However, the West Side Cocktail emerges as a contemporary reinterpretation, adding a modern twist while paying homage to its predecessor.

The recipe for the West Side Cocktail reads like a symphony of flavors. Beginning with lemon vodka, the drink lays a citrusy foundation that forms the backbone of its taste profile. Complemented by fresh lemon juice and simple syrup, the cocktail achieves a balanced sweetness that doesn’t overpower the zesty notes. The addition of club soda injects a touch of effervescence, enhancing the drink’s refreshing nature.

The role of fresh mint leaves cannot be understated in the West Side Cocktail’s composition. Adding 10-12 leaves to the mix infuses the drink with an invigorating herbal aroma and a hint of coolness that evokes memories of summer breezes. These mint leaves, expertly shaken with the other ingredients, blend seamlessly with the lemony base to create a balanced fusion of flavors.

Served in a coupe glass, the West Side Cocktail welcomes a refreshing chill that complements its vibrant taste. The cocktail is completed with a garnish of fresh mint leaves, a nod to its heritage, and a visual representation of the attention to detail that characterizes modern mixology.

West Side Cocktail Recipe

1. 60 ml Lemon vodka

2. 30 ml Fresh lemon juice

3. 15 ml Simple syrup

4. 30 ml Club soda

5. 10 -12 Fresh Mint leaves

6. Ice

7. Garnish: fresh mint