Pink Lady
The Pink Lady is a classic cocktail known for its delicate balance of sweet and tart flavors. Made with gin, apple brandy, lemon juice, and a touch of grenadine, it is shaken to create a frothy texture and garnished with a cherry or a slice of apple. Its signature pale pink hue and refreshing taste make it a timeless favorite for cocktail enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ozGin
- 1 tspGrenadine
- 1 tspLight cream
- 1Egg white
Pairs Well With
- Smoked salmon with dill and cream cheese
- Roasted beet salad with goat cheese
- Pink grapefruit with almond cake
- Raspberry tart
Preparation
Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and serve.
Best Enjoyed
Pro Tips
Use applejack or Apple Brandy specifically—standard apple vodka lacks the spirit and character necessary for the drink's structure
Separate eggs carefully, discarding even tiny flecks of yolk, which prevent proper foam formation
Shake with ice first to properly chill and dilute, then dry shake (without ice) to create maximum foam and silky mouthfeel
Use real grenadine, not neon-colored syrup, for proper flavor and visual appeal—quality matters significantly.
History & Origins
The Pink Lady represents Prohibition-era creative experimentation, transforming the Sidecar template with the addition of grenadine and egg white to create a pink, silky cocktail that captured the era's playful spirit. This drink embodies the resourcefulness of bartenders working under restrictive laws who had to improvise with available ingredients while maintaining cocktail culture's standards. Its prominence in classic cocktail literature and modern speakeasy culture demonstrates its enduring appeal.
Variations
Red Lady
Increases grenadine ratio and adds lime juice for deeper color and fruity-tart balance
Aviation Pink
Replaces applejack with gin while retaining the egg white and grenadine for a more classic structure
Modern Pink Lady
Adds Amaro or herbal liqueur alongside applejack for increased complexity and depth.
Other Gin Cocktails
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Rail Splitter
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The Philosopher
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Ace
The Ace cocktail is a refreshing blend of gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lemon juice, creating a vibrant and zesty flavor profile. Garnished with a sprig of mint and a twist of lemon peel, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making it the perfect drink for any occasion. Enjoy it chilled to elevate your spirits!
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Vodka Lemon
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Ace
The Ace cocktail is a refreshing blend of gin, elderflower liqueur, and fresh lemon juice, creating a vibrant and zesty flavor profile. Garnished with a sprig of mint and a twist of lemon peel, it offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making it the perfect drink for any occasion. Enjoy it chilled to elevate your spirits!
Bumble Bee
The Bumble Bee is a delightful cocktail that combines the sweetness of honey with the bright flavors of fresh citrus. Typically made with gin, lemon juice, and honey syrup, it offers a refreshing balance of tart and sweet, making it a perfect choice for warm evenings. Garnished with a lemon twist, this drink is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Similar Flavor Profiles
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The Apple Berry Smoothie is a refreshing blend of crisp apple juice and a medley of juicy berries, creating a vibrant and fruity drink that's perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and natural sweetness, this cocktail is both invigorating and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a warm day or a festive gathering. Enjoy it chilled for a delightful burst of flavor!
Belgian Blue
The Belgian Blue is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that combines the rich flavors of Belgian beer with a splash of blue curaçao and a hint of citrus. This eye-catching drink is typically garnished with a slice of lemon or a twist of orange, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a unique and flavorful experience. Its striking blue hue and delightful taste make it a popular choice for summer gatherings and festive occasions.
Pink Moon
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Clover Club
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