Have you ever wondered how a cocktail could both taste incredible and have a history that’s equally fascinating? That’s the Clover Club for you, a classic cocktail that is a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and strong, just like a musical symphony in a glass. Named after a men’s club in Philadelphia that dates back to the 19th century, this cocktail masterfully harmonizes the sharpness of gin, the sweetness of raspberry syrup, and the tartness of lemon juice.
While its vivid pink color might mislead some into thinking it’s more style over substance, you couldn’t be more wrong. It’s like judging a book by its cover – one sip and you realize the depth and complexity it carries. The egg white gives it a velvety froth that enhances the overall experience. Are you ready to unravel this vintage delight?
The Origin of Clover Club
The Clover Club cocktail, as mentioned earlier, was the signature drink of a pre-Prohibition gentlemen’s club of the same name in Philadelphia. The club included leading journalists, lawyers, and businessmen of the day. Who would’ve thought that a recipe dating back to the 1800s would still hold its charm today?
The cocktail, however, began to fade into obscurity in the post-Prohibition era, perhaps due to its pink hue, which was considered too feminine by some. But as cocktail culture has evolved and broadened, the Clover Club has made a well-deserved comeback.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
The Clover Club is a study in balance. Just like a pendulum swinging between two extremes – sweet and sour – this cocktail finds its equilibrium subtly yet surely. The tartness of the lemon juice perfectly counteracts the sweetness of the raspberry syrup, while the gin gives it a robust foundation.
The addition of an egg white might seem unusual, but it’s what gives the Clover Club its distinctive frothy texture. When shaken vigorously, the egg white emulsifies, resulting in a silky smooth and visually appealing froth that sits atop the cocktail like a soft cloud.
The Art of Making a Clover Club
As with any vintage cocktail, the making of a Clover Club is an art unto itself. It’s not just about mixing the ingredients together; it’s about doing so with precision and care, understanding how each component contributes to the final masterpiece.
The shaking technique is crucial here. A vigorous shake not only ensures that the ingredients are well combined, but it also helps to create the desired froth from the egg white. Don’t be afraid to shake it with all your might – the result will be worth it.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Gin
- 1 oz Lemon juice
- 1 oz Raspberry syrup
- 1 Egg white
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Add the gin, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and egg white into a shaker.
- Shake vigorously without ice to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
- Strain into a glass.
- Garnish with a few raspberries or a slice of lemon.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
Tips for Clover Club
1. Use fresh lemon juice for a more vibrant taste. 2. Make sure to shake the cocktail vigorously to create a good froth. 3. If you’re not a fan of egg whites, you can substitute it with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for a vegan version.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
The Clover Club cocktail is not just a drink; it’s a piece of history served in a glass. Its unique blend of flavors makes it stand out among other cocktails. It’s tart but sweet, strong but smooth, and the frothy top adds a touch of elegance that’s hard to resist. The Clover Club is a vintage charm that is sure to impress your guests at any gathering.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 200 kcal