Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic12.8% ABV6 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Easy
Why: 6 ingredients, uses syrup
Best for: Citrus Based Food, Herbal Food, Summer
Ingredients
BaseModifierCitrusSweetenerMixer
- 1.0 ozJuice Of A LimeCitrus
- 1.0 ozPowdered SugarSweetener
- 2.0 ozCarbonated WaterMixer
- 2.0 ozGinBase
- 2 dashesBittersModifier
- 1.0 ozGrenadineSweetener
How to Make It
- Make the same as Gin Swizzle (see page 99) and add one tablespoon of grenadine.
- If desired, rum, brandy, or whiskey may be substituted for the gin.
Best For
Food Pairings
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 sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
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.BittersAromatic bitters (like Angostura) add spice, clove and cinnamon warmth. Orange bitters are brighter and more citrus-forward. Peychaud's is lighter and more floral. Swapping between them changes the top-note character — use the same quantity and taste, adjusting by drops.
Rate this recipe
Frequently asked questions
- What is a Red Swizzle?
- The Red Swizzle is a cocktail made with 6 ingredients, traditionally served in a Collins Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 12.8%. A standard serving contains approximately 281 calories.
- What does a Red Swizzle taste like?
- Red 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 Red Swizzle?
- Red 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 Red Swizzle?
- The Red Swizzle has an ABV of approximately 12.8%. That's approximately 1.50 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 281 calories, 35.6g sugar, 37.5g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Red Swizzle typically served?
- Red 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 Red Swizzle?
- If you enjoy Red 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 Red Swizzle at home?
- Yes. The Red Swizzle uses 6 ingredients, making it more involved to prepare at home. You will need a Collins 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 Red 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.