There’s something truly special about a Commonwealth cocktail—it’s light, citrusy, and just the right amount of crisp. Whether you’re winding down after a warm day or looking for a refreshing drink to serve at your next get-together, this one’s a crowd-pleaser. I’ve made this drink countless times, and over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make it even better. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make a perfectly balanced Commonwealth at home.
Commonwealth
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Highball or Collins
Make-ahead: You can pre-mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup. Just add soda and garnish when serving.
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) gin
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– Club soda, to top
– Ice
– Lemon twist or mint sprig, for garnish
Substitutions:
– Swap lemon juice for lime juice if you prefer a tangier flavor
– Use honey or agave syrup instead of simple syrup for a natural sweetness
– Vodka works in place of gin for a milder taste
Method
- Fill a shaker with ice. Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well for about 10 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top off with club soda. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of mint.
Tip: Chill your glass ahead of time for an extra refreshing drink.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– Mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup up to a day in advance and keep it chilled.
– Add the soda just before serving to keep the bubbles lively.
– Store leftover simple syrup in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Flavor Profile
A good Commonwealth hits you with bright citrus up front, then smooths out with a touch of sweetness and a crisp, fizzy finish. It’s simple, clean, and incredibly drinkable.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights—especially when I want something refreshing but not too sweet. The balance of lemon and gin is just right, and that splash of soda gives it a nice lift.
Serving Suggestions
This drink pairs beautifully with light and fresh dishes. Try serving it alongside:
Seafood
Think grilled shrimp, oysters, or a citrusy ceviche. The lemon in the cocktail brings out the best in delicate seafood flavors.
Grilled Chicken
The clean, zesty notes help cut through the richness of grilled or marinated chicken.
Fresh Salads
A Commonwealth complements crisp greens, especially those with vinaigrettes or herby toppings.
Tips for the Best Commonwealth
- Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled works in a pinch, but fresh makes a world of difference.
- Balance is key. If it tastes too tart, add a touch more syrup. Too sweet? A little more lemon will fix it.
- Don’t skip the garnish. A lemon twist or mint sprig adds aroma and a polished finish.
Fun Twists & Variations
Spicy Commonwealth
– Add a small dash of hot sauce to the shaker before mixing.
– It gives a surprising kick that pairs well with grilled foods.
Tropical Commonwealth
– Replace lemon juice with pineapple juice
– Add 0.5 oz (15 ml) of coconut water
– It’s like a beach vacation in a glass.
Herbal Commonwealth
– Muddle a sprig of rosemary or basil in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
– Adds a savory, aromatic layer that’s perfect for cooler evenings.
Virgin Commonwealth
– Skip the gin
– Add a splash of apple juice and more club soda
– Garnish with cucumber or mint for a refreshing, booze-free version.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh juice gives a brighter, cleaner flavor. If you do use bottled, taste and adjust the sweetness as needed.
What’s the best garnish?
A lemon twist adds a nice zing and aroma. Mint is also great if you want something cooling and fragrant.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup in a pitcher. Keep it chilled and pour over ice, topping with club soda when serving.
How do I make it healthier?
Cut back on the simple syrup or use a natural sweetener like honey. You can also up the club soda for a lighter version.
Final Notes
The Commonwealth is one of those cocktails that feels timeless—simple, refreshing, and easy to tweak to your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or sipping it solo on your porch, it’s always a hit. Try out one of the variations next time, and pair it with a fresh dish to really round out the experience. Cheers!
