Savannah Cocktail Recipe

The Savannah cocktail is a classic cocktail that originated in the early 20th century in Savannah, Georgia. It was created by a bartender named James Oglethorpe, who was inspired by the city's beautiful architecture and vibrant culture. The cocktail quickly gained popularity among the city's elite and soon became a staple at high society events.

• The Savannah cocktail is often associated with the city's rich history and elegant charm.
• It is said to have been a favorite of famous author and Savannah native, Flannery O'Connor.
• The cocktail has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks to the growing craft cocktail movement.

The Savannah cocktail is a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors. The combination of citrus, herbal, and floral notes creates a refreshing and complex taste profile. The cocktail is light and crisp, with a subtle sweetness and a hint of tartness.

• The Savannah cocktail is sometimes referred to as the 'Southern Belle' due to its elegant and sophisticated nature.
• The cocktail is often served at garden parties and other outdoor events in Savannah, as it is a refreshing and light option for warm weather.
• The original recipe for the Savannah cocktail called for a specific brand of gin, which has since been discontinued. Modern interpretations of the cocktail often use a high-quality London Dry Gin as a substitute.

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, lemon juice, St-Germain, and Aperol to the shaker.
3. Shake well until chilled and well combined.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist.

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice can't compare.
• Chill your glass before pouring the cocktail into it. This will keep your drink cooler for longer.
• Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously. This not only mixes the ingredients well but also helps to chill the drink.

Appetizers

• Cheese platter: A selection of mild to medium cheeses, avoiding very strong flavors that could overwhelm the cocktail's delicacy.
• Salty nuts: The saltiness will contrast well with the cocktail's slight bitterness and floral notes.
• Grilled shrimp: Light and zesty, complementing the citrus components of the cocktail.

Main Courses

• Grilled white fish: Such as cod or bass, which will harmonize with the drink's freshness without overpowering it.
• Chicken piccata: The lemon in the dish will echo the citrusy notes in the Savannah.

Desserts

• Lemon sorbet: To cleanse the palate and enhance the citrus flavors in the cocktail.

• Gin: You can use any type of gin, but a London Dry Gin is recommended for its crisp, clean flavor.
• St-Germain: If you can't find St-Germain, you can substitute it with another elderflower liqueur.
• Aperol: Campari can be used as a substitute for Aperol, but it will make the drink a bit more bitter.

Savannah Sunset

• Substitute Aperol with Campari (0.5oz): for a punchier bitterness.
• Add a splash of soda water: to mellow the drink and add a fizzy texture.
• Garnish with an orange twist: for a different citrus note.

Shake the gin, lemon juice, St-Germain, and Campari. Strain into a chilled glass with ice, top with soda, and garnish with an orange twist. The Campari brings a more robust bitterness, changing the sip from a delicate tease to a bolder statement.

Southern Belle

• Use bourbon instead of gin (2oz): for a sweeter, oakier profile.
• Add peach nectar (0.5oz): to give a Southern fruity twist.

Shake the bourbon, lemon juice, St-Germain, Aperol, and peach nectar with ice. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a slice of peach. This version is like a visit to Georgia, with warm and comforting flavors taking the lead.

Garden Party

• Include cucumber slices (2-3) in the shaker:
• Use a splash of elderflower tonic instead of St-Germain:
• Muddle mint leaves (5-6) before shaking:

Muddle the cucumber and mint in the shaker, add the gin, lemon juice, and Aperol, shake with ice, and then strain into a glass over ice. Top with elderflower tonic and garnish with a mint sprig. It’s a refreshing twist, perfect for a sunny afternoon with a hint of the garden in every sip.