The White Lady is one of the great classics of the cocktail world. It combines elegance, simplicity and a fascinating connection to the glamour of the Jazz Age. The cocktail is said to have been created at the famous American Bar within the Savoy Hotel. It was during the 1920s and was named in honour of Zelda Fitzgerald, whose striking platinum blonde hair inspired its name.
Zelda Fitzgerald was one of the defining figures of the Roaring Twenties. An accomplished novelist, artist and socialite, she became a cultural icon alongside her husband, author F. Scott Fitzgerald. Her beauty, confidence and carefree spirit embodied the flapper movement, making her one of the most recognisable women of her generation. As her fame grew, so too did the popularity of the White Lady, which quickly became fashionable across Europe.
At its heart, the White Lady is a gin sour. The combination of gin, fresh lemon juice and sugar syrup creates a beautifully balanced cocktail that is both bright and refreshing. The sharp citrus notes complement the botanicals within the gin, while the sweetness softens the edges and provides harmony.
The addition of egg white elevates the drink further. When shaken, it creates a luxurious texture and silky foam that gives the cocktail its signature appearance. The result is a refined, elegant serve with a smooth mouthfeel and crisp citrus finish.
Nearly a century after its creation, the White Lady remains a timeless cocktail that perfectly captures the sophistication and style of the 1920s.
Ease of Making: Easy.
Glass Type: Coupe Glass or Rocks Glass.
Taste: Refreshing, dry, sour.
Original Recipe:
- 50ml Explorer’s Gin.
- 25ml Cointreau (triple sec).
- 25ml Lemon Juice.
- 15ml Simple Sugar Syrup.
- 1 Egg White.
Method:
- Add all ingredients into a cocktail shaker and shake to emulsify.
- Add ice into the shaker and shake for 30 secs until it frosts on the outside.
- Strain into coupe style glass.
- Add a twist of lemon peel or lemon thyme.
Variations:
- Sabot – add champagne to the glass (use a flute).
- Perfect Lady – replace Cointreau with peach liqueur.
- Side Car – replace gin with cognac.
