Southside

Primary spirit: Gin

A Brief History of a Southside

The Southside cocktail has its roots in the clandestine bars of Chicago during the Prohibition era. Legend has it that this cocktail was a favourite among mobsters and politicians alike, served in the notorious South Side of Chicago. Its popularity grew, transcending its speakeasy origins to become a well-loved classic in cocktail culture.

Taste and Flavour Profile

he Southside cocktail boasts a vibrant combination of flavours:

• Citrus Burst: Freshly squeezed lime juice takes the lead, providing a zesty and tangy foundation.

• Herbal Coolness: A few mint leaves adds a refreshing and aromatic quality, elevating the cocktail with each sip.

• Balanced Sweetness: Simple syrup rounds off the edges, harmonising the citrus and mint, resulting in a perfectly balanced libation.

• Gin Elegance: The choice of gin contributes botanical depth, allowing the juniper and herbal notes to play a supporting role.

The Southside is a versatile cocktail that offers a delightful interplay of citrus brightness and herbal freshness.

Food Pairings

The Southside's bright and herbal notes make it an excellent companion to a range of dishes:

• Light Seafood: Pair with oysters, ceviche, or shrimp cocktail to complement the cocktail's citrusy and refreshing qualities.

• Herbaceous Salads: Enjoy with salads featuring fresh herbs, citrus vinaigrettes, and crisp greens for a harmonious pairing.

• Grilled Chicken: The Southside's versatility makes it a delightful match for grilled chicken dishes, bringing out the herbal and citrus elements.

Bar Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Hawthorne strainer
• Fine mesh strainer
• Coupe glass
• Jigger

Ingredients

• 60ml London dry gin
• 25ml Freshly squeezed lime juice
• 20ml Simple syrup*
• 8 mint leaves
• Garnish: Mint sprig
• Ice

Method

• Add all ingredients into the cocktail shaker, including mint leaves, add ice and vigorously shake until well chilled
• Double strain into into a couple glass
• Garnish with a mint sprig

*Simple syrup - 1 part sugar to one part water. Gently heat in a pan until sugar has dissolved and allow to cool

What's the best Gin for a Southside Cocktail?

The best gin for a Southside cocktail often depends on personal preferences, as different gins offer distinct botanical profiles. However, a classic London Dry gin or a gin with citrus and herbaceous notes tends to work exceptionally well in a Southside. Here are some gins that are commonly recommended for crafting a delicious Southside cocktail:

• Tanqueray: A classic London Dry gin, Tanqueray is known for its juniper-forward profile with a balanced blend of botanicals. Its crispness complements the citrus and mint in the Southside.

• Bombay Sapphire: This widely popular gin has a well-balanced combination of botanicals, including juniper, lemon peel, and coriander. Its versatility makes it a great choice for a Southside.

• Hendrick's: For those who enjoy a more unique gin experience, Hendrick's with its infusion of rose and cucumber adds a subtle floral and refreshing element to the cocktail.

• Plymouth Gin: A slightly sweeter and earthier gin, Plymouth Gin brings a distinctive character to the Southside. It works well for those who prefer a nuanced and less juniper-forward profile.

When choosing a gin, consider whether you prefer a gin with a classic juniper-forward taste or one with additional botanicals that can enhance the cocktail's overall flavor profile. Ultimately, the best gin for your Southside is the one that suits your taste preferences and complements the herbal and citrus elements of the cocktail. Experimenting with different gins allows you to tailor the drink to your liking.