Ramos Gin Fizz

Ramos Gin Fizz

Alessandro Scire Calabrisotto

Ramos Gin Fizz: The Timeless Creamy Classic

The Ramos Gin Fizz is a cocktail that defines the art of mixology. Known for its complex flavor and luxurious texture, this drink is a true classic that has captured the hearts of cocktail enthusiasts around the world. Its blend of gin, cream, citrus, and a hint of floral orange flower water creates a rich, velvety drink that is both refreshing and indulgent. Often associated with a labor-intensive preparation, the Ramos Gin Fizz is a drink that rewards patience with an unforgettable, smooth experience.

This cocktail is a tribute to the golden age of cocktails, representing the height of 19th-century American drinking culture. Created by Henry C. Ramos in New Orleans in the late 1800s, the Ramos Gin Fizz became a beloved drink for its complex yet refreshing qualities. It is not merely a drink; it’s an experience that stands as a symbol of sophistication, innovation, and the timeless appeal of classic cocktails.

The Origins of the Ramos Gin Fizz: A Cocktail with History

The Ramos Gin Fizz was invented by bartender Henry C. Ramos in New Orleans in 1888, and it quickly became one of the city’s most iconic drinks. Henry Ramos was a legendary bartender, known for his skill and ingenuity, and his creation became one of the cornerstones of New Orleans' cocktail culture. At the time, New Orleans was a hub of creative cocktail-making, and Ramos wanted to create a drink that would stand out in the competitive world of bartending.

The original recipe, which was more elaborate than today's version, called for egg white, cream, and soda water, which was shaken for an incredibly long period—sometimes up to 10 minutes—to achieve the desired frothy texture. The drink’s name, “Ramos Gin Fizz,” was coined as a nod to the creator and its unique, fizzy, effervescent quality.

Ramos's cocktail was so popular that it attracted large crowds. In fact, it’s said that Ramos had a team of bartenders working at his bar to meet the demand, each one shaking the drinks for the required 10-minute period. The Ramos Gin Fizz became a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and by the early 1900s, it had spread to other cities across the United States.

The drink’s creamy texture and bubbly finish made it especially popular among women, who were drawn to its smooth mouthfeel and delicate taste. It even became a symbol of New Orleans sophistication during Mardi Gras and other celebrations. Over time, the Ramos Gin Fizz became a staple of the classic cocktail canon and remains one of the most challenging and rewarding drinks to make in the cocktail world.

The Classic Ramos Gin Fizz Recipe: A Creamy and Fizzy Delight

The Ramos Gin Fizz is an elaborate cocktail that requires a little extra effort to perfect, but the reward is absolutely worth it. Here’s how to make this iconic drink:

Ingredients:

  • 50 ml (1.7 oz) Gin (preferably a high-quality London dry gin)
  • 25 ml (0.85 oz) Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 25 ml (0.85 oz) Fresh Lime Juice
  • 30 ml (1 oz) Heavy Cream
  • 10 ml (0.33 oz) Simple Syrup
  • 2 dashes Orange Flower Water
  • 1 Egg White
  • 1 splash Club Soda (for topping)
  • Ice
  • A slice of Lemon Peel or Orange Peel (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Dry Shake: Add all ingredients (gin, lemon juice, lime juice, cream, simple syrup, egg white, and orange flower water) to a shaker. Do not add ice yet. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to emulsify the egg white and cream, creating a frothy mixture.
  2. Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake again for 2 minutes (this is the classic technique that ensures the drink is thoroughly chilled and smooth).
  3. Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled highball or collins glass without ice.
  4. Top with Soda: Add a splash of club soda to give the drink its characteristic fizz.
  5. Garnish: Garnish with a slice of lemon or orange peel for a hint of citrus aroma.

Additional Tips for Perfecting the Ramos Gin Fizz

  • Egg White: The inclusion of egg white is essential for the Ramos Gin Fizz, as it gives the drink its velvety texture and frothy top. Make sure to use fresh eggs for the best results. If you're worried about using raw eggs, pasteurized egg whites are a safe alternative.

  • Shaking: The most crucial step in making a Ramos Gin Fizz is the shaking. The more vigorously and for longer you shake, the smoother and more frothy the drink will become. It’s a labor of love, but it’s what gives the drink its luxurious texture.

  • Orange Flower Water: This is a key ingredient that adds a delicate floral note to the drink. Use it sparingly, as a little goes a long way. Too much can overpower the other flavors.

  • Gin Selection: Choose a London dry gin that is smooth and balanced. While some people like to experiment with different styles of gin, the dry gin's classic herbal flavors provide the perfect base for this cocktail.

  • Club Soda: Top off the drink with just a splash of club soda. Too much soda will dilute the drink, so be careful to maintain the right balance between creaminess and effervescence.

Variations of the Ramos Gin Fizz

While the classic Ramos Gin Fizz recipe is beloved by many, there are a few variations you can try to add your own twist to this timeless cocktail:

  • Ramos Gin Fizz with Elderflower: Add a dash of elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain) for a subtle floral twist that complements the orange flower water.

  • Ramos Gin Fizz with Aperol: For a bittersweet twist, add a splash of Aperol or Campari for a slightly more complex flavor.

  • Gin Fizz: For a simpler version, omit the cream and egg white, and just mix gin, citrus juice, and club soda for a quick and easy alternative.

Why the Ramos Gin Fizz Stands Out

The Ramos Gin Fizz is not just a cocktail; it’s an experience. The care required to prepare it, along with its velvety texture and fizzy finish, make it a truly memorable drink. It's one of those rare cocktails that manage to be both refreshing and rich at the same time. The combination of citrus, cream, gin, and orange flower water creates a flavor profile that is complex, elegant, and unique. It’s a drink that’s perfect for special occasions, yet enjoyable on a casual evening when you’re in the mood for something special.

Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of classic drinks, the Ramos Gin Fizz is a must-try that exemplifies the beauty and artistry of mixology. Its long history, sophisticated flavor, and luxurious mouthfeel make it a drink that stands the test of time.

Links

Back to blog