Mix the Perfect Southside Cocktail with Welsh Dry Gin

The Perfect Southside Cocktail with Welsh Dry Gin

At Snowdonia Spirit Co., we pride ourselves on creating exceptional gins that capture the spirit and beauty of Wales. Our Welsh Dry Gin, with its 43% ABV, is the ideal base for many classic cocktails. Today, we’re excited to share one of our favourites with you: the Southside cocktail. This refreshing, minty drink is a delightful blend of simplicity and elegance, perfect for any occasion.

A Brief History of the Southside Cocktail

The origins of the Southside cocktail are somewhat murky, adding to its allure. Some say it was born in Chicago during Prohibition, served to gangsters in the South Side district. Others believe it originated at the Southside Sportsmen’s Club on Long Island. Regardless of its roots, the Southside has stood the test of time, remaining a beloved choice for gin enthusiasts around the world.

Why Welsh Dry Gin?

Our Welsh Dry Gin, with its crisp and clean profile, provides the perfect foundation for the Southside cocktail. Crafted with a blend of botanicals that include juniper, coriander, and a hint of citrus, it offers a balanced flavour that enhances the mint and lime in the drink. The 43% ABV ensures a robust and full-bodied taste, making every sip a memorable experience.

Ingredients
Before we dive into the method, let’s gather our ingredients. For a classic Southside cocktail, you’ll need:

• 50ml Snowdonia Spirit Co. Welsh Dry Gin
• 25ml fresh lime juice
• 20ml simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)
• 8-10 fresh mint leaves
• Ice cubes
• Mint sprig for garnish

Method
Creating the perfect Southside cocktail is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to ensure the best results.
1. Prepare the Simple Syrup: If you don’t already have simple syrup, it’s easy to make. Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Allow it to cool before using.
2. Muddle the Mint: In a cocktail shaker, add the fresh mint leaves. Gently muddle them with a muddler or the back of a spoon. Be careful not to over-muddle, as you want to release the mint’s oils without shredding the leaves.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Add the Welsh Dry Gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker with the muddled mint.
4. Shake with Ice: Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This step chills the drink and allows the flavours to meld beautifully.
5. Strain and Serve: Double strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass to remove any mint fragments. This ensures a smooth and clean drink.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and serve immediately.

Why the Southside Cocktail?

The Southside cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. The combination of our Welsh Dry Gin with fresh lime and mint creates a harmonious blend that is both refreshing and invigorating. It’s perfect for a summer afternoon in the garden or a sophisticated evening gathering. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the quality of the gin to shine through, making it an excellent showcase for our Welsh Dry Gin.

Tips for the Perfect Southside

• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lime juice and mint for the best flavour. Pre-packaged lime juice or wilted mint can significantly affect the taste.
• Quality Ice: Clear, fresh ice is crucial. Ice that has been sitting in the freezer for too long can absorb odours and affect the drink’s flavour.
• Proper Shaking: Shaking the cocktail properly ensures it’s well-chilled and the ingredients are fully integrated. Don’t skimp on the shaking time!

Pairing the Southside

The Southside cocktail pairs wonderfully with light, fresh dishes. Think summer salads, grilled chicken, or seafood. Its refreshing quality also makes it a great palate cleanser, ideal for serving between courses at a dinner party.

Final Thoughts

At Snowdonia Spirit Co., we’re passionate about sharing the joy of gin with our community. The Southside cocktail is a testament to the versatility and elegance of our Welsh Dry Gin. Whether you’re a gin connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, we believe this cocktail will quickly become a favourite in your repertoire.

So, next time you’re looking for a drink that’s both simple and sophisticated, remember the Southside cocktail. With its rich history and refreshing taste, it’s sure to impress. Iechyd da!