Singapore Sling

The Classic Singapore Sling: A Timeless Tropical CocktailIntroduction

The Singapore Sling is a cocktail steeped in history, known for its vibrant flavors and refreshing qualities. Created by Singapore's Raffles Hotel bartender Ngiam Tong Boon, this drink is a delightful twist on the Gin Sling, a kind of punch that is served in single servings. The first published recipe for the Singapore Sling appeared in the 1930 classic “The Savoy Cocktail Book” by Harry Craddock. However, as time went on, variations of this cocktail began to emerge, leading to a range of interpretations that often strayed from the original.

Historical Context

By 1948, renowned mixologist David A. Embury noted in his book “The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks” that no two published recipes for the Singapore Sling were identical. This inconsistency reflects the cocktail's evolving nature, as bartenders adapted the recipe to suit changing tastes and available ingredients.

During the 1980s, the Singapore Sling faced a decline in quality, often becoming a sugary concoction made with bottled sweet-and-sour mix, and grenadine. Some bars served a bright-red version straight from a machine, while others quickly mixed low-quality ingredients for unsuspecting tourists. Even the famous Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel serves two versions: one from a premixed batch that tastes like fruit punch and a handcrafted version that emphasizes fresh juices. The latter is widely regarded as the epitome of a well-balanced cocktail showcasing the skill required to harmonize diverse ingredients without overwhelming the palate.

Characteristics of a Great Singapore Sling

At its best, the Singapore Sling is a complex, nuanced cocktail that showcases a variety of flavors. When crafted with precision, it delivers a tart and refreshing experience. However, many modern interpretations veer toward excessive sweetness, relying heavily on grenadine and pineapple juice at the expense of herbal liqueurs and fresh citrus.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The following recipe adheres closely to the classic formulation, resulting in a fruit-forward, herbaceous, and strong cocktail. It invites you to explore the rich tapestry of flavors while leaving room for personal experimentation.

Ingredients

To make a classic Singapore Sling, gather the following ingredients:

• 3/4 ounce gin
• 1/4 ounce Benedictine
• 1/4 ounce Grand Marnier
• 1/4 ounce Heering cherry liqueur
• 1 ounce pineapple juice
• 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Club soda, chilled, to top
• Garnish: orange slice and cherry

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to create your own Singapore sling:

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, Benedictine, Grand Marnier, Heering cherry liqueur, pineapple juice, lime juice, and Angostura bitters. Add ice to the shaker.
2. Shake: Shake the mixture vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain: Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Top with Club Soda: Add a splash of chilled club soda to the top of the drink for a refreshing finish.
5. Garnish: Decorate your cocktail with an orange slice and a cherry for a classic presentation.

Conclusion

The Singapore Sling is not just a cocktail; it’s a historical drink that embodies the spirit of tropical indulgence. By following this recipe, you can experience the nuances and complexities that define this timeless classic. Once you’ve mastered the traditional version, feel free to experiment with your own variations, allowing your creativity to shine. Enjoy your cocktail journey, and raise a glass to the rich history of the Singapore Sling!

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