Pink Lady Cocktail

The Pink Lady cocktail, a delicate pink-hued drink, exudes an air of refinement from the moment it’s poured into a glass. This elegant cocktail is typically crafted from a blend of gin, applejack or apple brandy, grenadine syrup, and lemon juice. The result is a flavor profile that balances the herbal notes of gin, the warmth of applejack, the tartness of lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness from grenadine. What truly sets the Pink Lady apart is its velvety texture, achieved by incorporating a small amount of egg white, which lends a silky smoothness to the drink.

The exact origin of the Pink Lady cocktail is subject to some debate, with various accounts attributing its creation to different sources. However, the prevailing consensus points to Jacques Straub, who featured the cocktail in his book “Straub’s Manual of Mixed Drinks” published in 1913. This comprehensive guide to cocktails and mixed drinks captured the essence of the era’s evolving drinking culture and offered a glimpse into the creative mind of Straub.

Straub was a legendary bartender who honed his craft in the early 20th century. He was known for his expertise in mixology, and was a trendsetter in his time, contributing significantly to the evolution of cocktails. Born in 1870, Straub embarked on his journey into the world of spirits and libations during the Prohibition era, a time when creativity was essential to mask the often-questionable quality of bootleg liquor. It was within these constraints that the Pink Lady emerged, a testament to Straub’s ingenuity.

The Pink Lady’s popularity endured through the years, even as cocktail preferences shifted and evolved. Its enduring charm can be attributed to its adaptability and timeless appeal. With the resurgence of classic cocktails in recent years, the Pink Lady has experienced a revival, captivating a new generation of cocktail aficionados eager to experience the elegance of the past.

Pink Lady Cocktail Recipe

1. 45 ml gin

2. 15 ml applejack

3. 22.5 ml fresh lemon juice

4. 10 ml grenadine

5. 1 egg white

6. Ice

7. Garnish: Maraschino cherry