Floradora

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces London dry gin

• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice

• 1/2 ounce raspberry syrup (or crème de framboise)

• 3–4 fresh raspberries (optional, for muddling)

• Ginger beer, to top

• Ice cubes

• Garnish: lime wheel and/or fresh raspberry

Instructions:

Muddle (Optional):
If using fresh raspberries, add them to a shaker and gently muddle with the raspberry syrup to release the juices.

Add Liquids:
Pour in the gin and lime juice. If you didn't muddle berries, add the raspberry syrup now.

Shake:
Fill the shaker with ice, seal tightly, and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well-chilled.

Strain:
Strain into a highball or Collins glass filled with fresh ice. Use a fine-mesh strainer if you muddled berries.

Top and Garnish:
Top with chilled ginger beer. Garnish with a lime wheel and a fresh raspberry or two.

Notes:

Bright and Balanced: The Floradora balances tart lime with sweet raspberry and the spicy fizz of ginger beer. Choose a bold, juniper-forward gin to stand up to the fruit and spice.

Syrup Swap: Raspberry syrup is traditional, but crème de framboise (a raspberry liqueur) adds depth and a touch more sweetness if preferred.

Ginger Matters: Use a quality ginger beer with a spicy kick to avoid a flat or overly sweet finish.

The Floradora dates back to the early 1900s, named after a hit Broadway musical of the same name. Originally created for one of the actresses, it quickly became a favorite among the cast and New York socialites. It's a fun, slightly whimsical cocktail that remains a refreshing choice, especially in summer.