A Duchess cocktail is light, citrusy, and just the right amount of bubbly-one of those drinks that feels like a little celebration in a glass. It’s bright, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned along the way: the key is balancing the lemon and syrup just right so the gin shines without being too sharp.
Duchess
This is a go-to for summer evenings on the patio, but honestly, it’s a winner year-round when you want something crisp and elegant without a lot of fuss.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball or Collins
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin (London Dry works great)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (see tip below)
– Club soda, to top
– Ice cubes
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well-about 15 seconds-until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a highball or Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with club soda and give it a gentle stir (don’t overdo it-you want to keep that fizz!).
- Garnish with a lemon twist. Run it around the rim first if you want a little extra citrus aroma.
Tips
- Simple syrup: You can easily make this at home-just mix equal parts sugar and hot water until dissolved. Let it cool before using. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Fresh lemon juice: Always worth squeezing fresh. Bottled lemon juice tends to taste flat and lacks that zesty brightness.
- Club soda: Add it last to keep the bubbles lively.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours. When you’re ready to serve, just shake with ice, strain, and top with soda. Perfect for prepping a batch before guests arrive!
Substitutions
– No lemon? Try lime juice for a tangier twist.
– Watching sugar? Swap simple syrup with agave or a sugar-free syrup.
– Want to switch up the flavor? Use a floral or citrus-forward gin for a different vibe.
Serving Suggestions
The Duchess pairs beautifully with:
- Light appetizers like bruschetta, cucumber sandwiches, or goat cheese crostini.
- Grilled white fish-the citrusy notes in the drink complement delicate seafood flavors.
- Fresh green salads with vinaigrettes or fruit-based dressings.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work rituals-sipping a Duchess with a little plate of olives and almonds on the side. It’s simple, but it feels like a treat every time.
Variations
Earl Grey Duchess
– Infuse your gin with Earl Grey tea for a subtle, aromatic twist.
– Add a splash of lavender syrup if you like floral notes.
Rose Duchess
– Add a dash of rose water and a splash of pomegranate juice.
– Garnish with edible rose petals for a romantic touch.
Spiced Duchess
– Stir in a bit of cinnamon syrup and a few dashes of orange bitters.
– Great for cooler weather when you want something warming yet refreshing.
Virgin Duchess
– Skip the gin and use tonic water or sparkling water instead.
– Add extra lemon and a touch more syrup for balance.
Storage
If you’re prepping for a party, you can mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup up to a day in advance. Keep it chilled in the fridge, and add soda and ice right before serving.
Common Questions
What’s the best gin for a Duchess?
A classic London Dry gin is a solid choice for its clean, crisp flavor. But feel free to experiment with floral or citrus gins if you want to change things up.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients by how many servings you need. Mix the base ahead and top with club soda individually when serving.
How do I make it less sweet?
Cut the simple syrup down to 0.25 oz (7 ml) or use a sugar-free version. You can always add more if needed.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
It’ll work in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice really makes a difference. The flavor is brighter and more vibrant.
What’s the best garnish?
A lemon twist is traditional, but you can also try an edible flower or a sprig of rosemary for something a little different.
Final Thoughts
The Duchess is the kind of cocktail that feels both fancy and easygoing. It’s simple enough to whip up on a weeknight but elegant enough to serve at a dinner party. With just a few ingredients and a little shake, you’ve got something light, bubbly, and full of character. Try one variation or stick to the classic-either way, you’re in for a refreshing sip.
