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Cocktails

Gin Swizzle

Served in a Highball Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic13.3% ABV5 ingredientsexcellent recipe
166 cal13.3% ABV1.48 US std5.0g sugar8.0g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Moderateshaken drink

Why: 5 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker

Best for: Citrus Based Food, Herbal Food, Summer

Ingredients & Tools

BaseModifierCitrusSweetenerMixer
  • 1 1/2 ozLime JuiceCitrus
  • 1 tsp superfineSugarSweetener
  • 2 ozGinBase
  • 1 dashBittersModifier
  • 3 ozClub SodaMixer
Tools:shaker

How to Make It

ShakeStir
  1. In a shaker half-filled with ice cubes, combine the lime juice, sugar, gin, and bitters.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
  2. Shake well.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
  3. Almost fill a colling glass with ice cubes.
  4. Stir until the glass is frosted.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
  5. Strain the mixture in the shaker into the glass and add the club soda.Shake

Best For

SummerSeafood Dinner

Food Pairings

Citrus Based FoodHerbal FoodSeafood

Diet & Lifestyle

Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian

Make it your way

Adjust this drink

Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.Make it simplerTry drinks with three ingredients or fewer.

Swap notes

Base spiritGin swaps are risky — botanicals vary wildly. London Dry is drier and more juniper-forward; Old Tom is sweeter; sloe gin adds fruit. If you swap, stay within the same style and taste as you go.CitrusLemon juice can replace lime but it is sharper and less floral — the drink will taste brighter and slightly more tart. Grapefruit juice works if you want something more bitter. Whichever you use, add a little at a time and taste as you go.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.BubblesSoda water is neutral and clean — it adds fizz without flavour. Tonic water is bitter and slightly sweet, which changes the balance noticeably. Ginger beer is spiced and punchy; ginger ale is milder and sweeter. These are not interchangeable — pick the one that suits the drink's flavour direction.

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Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Gin Swizzle?
The Gin Swizzle is a cocktail made with 5 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 13.3%. A standard serving contains approximately 166 calories.
What does a Gin Swizzle taste like?
Gin Swizzle has a flavour profile featuring Sweet, Citrus, Herbal, Sugar. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a Gin Swizzle?
Gin Swizzle pairs well with Citrus Based Food, Herbal Food, Seafood. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a Gin Swizzle?
The Gin Swizzle has an ABV of approximately 13.3%. That's approximately 1.48 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 166 calories, 5.0g sugar, 8.0g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a Gin Swizzle typically served?
Gin Swizzle is a popular choice for Summer, Seafood Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
What drinks are similar to a Gin Swizzle?
If you enjoy Gin Swizzle, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
Can I make a Gin Swizzle at home?
Yes. The Gin Swizzle uses 5 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Highball Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Gin Swizzle with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.