Sage & Lemon Gin Fizz Recipe

Cocktail

1. 1

   Prepare the sage

   Gently slap 3 of the fresh sage leaves between your palms to release aromatics. Reserve the remaining 3 leaves for muddling and the sprig for garnish.

2. 2

   Muddle

   In a cocktail shaker, place 3 sage leaves and the simple syrup. Using a muddler, gently press and twist the leaves about 10–15 times until fragrant but not pulverized. This releases essential oils without excessive bitterness.

3. 3

   Combine

   Add the gin, fresh lemon juice, and egg white (if using) to the shaker. Dry shake (no ice) vigorously for 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white and integrate the sage.

4. 4

   Shake with ice

   Add 1 cup of ice to the shaker and shake hard for 10–15 seconds until the shaker is cold to the touch and the mixture is well chilled.

5. 5

   Fine strain

   Double-strain the mixture (through the shaker's strainer and a fine mesh strainer) into a chilled highball or Collins glass filled halfway with fresh ice. Double-straining removes sage bits and ice shards, giving a smooth texture.

6. 6

   Top with soda

   Gently top the drink with 2 oz of chilled club soda. Pour slowly down the side of the glass to preserve the foam from the egg white (if used).

7. 7

   Finish & garnish

   Drop a single drop or dash of Angostura bitters onto the foam (optional) and use a toothpick to create a simple pattern if desired. Float the reserved slapped sage leaves on top for aroma, add the lemon wheel on the rim, and tuck the sage sprig into the glass as an aromatic garnish.

8. 8

   Serve

   Serve immediately with a short stir if needed. Encourage the drinker to inhale the sage sprig before sipping to highlight the herbal top note.