White Lion Cocktail Recipe

The White Lion cocktail is a classic drink that dates back to the early 20th century. It was first created by Harry MacElhone, the owner of Harry's New York Bar in Paris. This cocktail was popular among the high society of the time and was often enjoyed at fancy parties and gatherings. The White Lion is a sophisticated and elegant drink that appeals to those who appreciate a well-crafted cocktail.

• The White Lion was created in the early 20th century
• Harry MacElhone, the owner of Harry's New York Bar in Paris, is credited with its creation
• This cocktail was popular among high society and enjoyed at fancy parties and gatherings

The White Lion has a complex and well-balanced taste profile. It is slightly sweet, with a hint of citrus and a touch of herbal bitterness. The gin provides a strong, yet smooth, base for the cocktail, while the orange liqueur adds a subtle sweetness and citrusy brightness. The vermouth and bitters round out the flavor, adding depth and complexity.

• The White Lion is sometimes referred to as the 'King of Cocktails' due to its elegant and sophisticated taste
• This cocktail is often served in a chilled martini glass, adding to its air of refinement
• The White Lion is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed as an aperitif or as a nightcap

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice
2. Add the gin, orange liqueur, dry vermouth, and orange bitters
3. Stir well until chilled and properly diluted
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass
5. Garnish with a lemon twist

• Always use fresh ice for the best taste
• Stir the cocktail for at least 30 seconds to ensure it's properly diluted
• Use a high-quality gin for a smoother taste

Appetizers

• Cheese plates: The herbal notes of gin and the citrus from the orange liqueur complement the richness of cheeses, especially those with a creamy texture.
• Seafood: Light seafood dishes, such as shrimp cocktail or oysters, pair beautifully with the White Lion's crisp and refreshing profile.

Main Dishes

• Lemon Chicken: The citrus from the cocktail enhances the lemon flavor in the chicken.
• Grilled White Fish: A simple grilled fish with a drizzle of olive oil and herbs makes a lovely match for this zesty cocktail.

Desserts

• Fruit Tarts: A fruit tart with a buttery crust can mirror the citrusy and botanical notes of the White Lion.
• Macarons: Specifically lemon or orange-flavored macarons would tie in delightfully with the cocktail's flavors.

• Vodka can be used instead of gin for a different flavor profile
• Lime twist can be used as a garnish instead of lemon twist
• Sweet Vermouth can be used instead of dry vermouth for a sweeter taste

The Sapphire Lion

Swap the gin for a blue gin, add a splash of peach schnapps instead of orange liqueur, and replace the dry vermouth with a splash of elderflower cordial. This twist will give your cocktail a fruity, floral edge, transforming your lion into something a bit more mysterious and enchanting.

The Pink Lioness

Introduce a rosé vermouth in place of dry vermouth, add a dash of grapefruit bitters along with the orange bitters, and garnish with a sprig of rosemary instead of a lemon twist. This iteration would give your cocktail a flirtatious note with herbal undertones - perfect for when your drink needs to wear a little pink.

The Golden Roar

Use an aged gin for more depth, substitute the orange liqueur with honey syrup, and add a few drops of lemon juice to balance the sweetness. You'll garnish this version with an orange wheel. The Golden Roar is a heartier take on the White Lion, with a richer, more complex flavor profile to savor on a cool, cozy evening.