A Fitzgerald cocktail is one of those drinks that’s effortlessly elegant yet incredibly easy to make. It’s crisp, citrusy, and just a little bit bitter, making it a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re a gin lover or just dipping your toes into classic cocktails, this one is a must-try. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress—especially on warm summer evenings when you need something refreshing in hand.
Fitzgerald
Ingredients
You’ll need just a handful of ingredients to mix up a Fitzgerald:
- 2 oz (60ml) gin
- 3/4 oz (22ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz (15ml) simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Glass: A cocktail glass or martini glass works best for serving. Chilling the glass beforehand keeps the drink crisp and refreshing.
How to Make a Fitzgerald
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters.
- Shake well for about 10–15 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.
Tip: Always use fresh lemon juice—it makes all the difference in flavor. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
What Makes the Fitzgerald Special?
This cocktail is a great balance of sweet, tart, and bitter. The gin brings a botanical depth, the lemon juice adds brightness, and the simple syrup smooths everything out. The bitters? They give it just the right amount of complexity without overpowering the drink.
I love how versatile it is—you can tweak the sweetness, swap ingredients, or even add a twist (more on that below).
Make It Your Own
If you want to switch things up, here are a few easy tweaks:
- Prefer a tangier kick? Swap lemon juice for lime juice.
- Want a smoother drink? Use vodka instead of gin.
- Looking for a natural sweetener? Try honey syrup or agave syrup instead of simple syrup.
- Like a little spice? Add a dash of orange bitters for a citrusy depth.
Fitzgerald Cocktail Variations
Hemingway Fitzgerald
- Uses grapefruit juice instead of lemon for a slightly sweeter, mellow twist.
- Add a splash of maraschino liqueur for extra depth.
Elderflower Fitzgerald
- Adds elderflower liqueur to the mix for a floral, aromatic experience.
- Garnish with a lemon twist for an elegant finish.
Spicy Fitzgerald
- Uses jalapeño-infused simple syrup for a subtle heat.
- Shake and strain as usual for a spicy-sweet balance.
Virgin Fitzgerald (Non-Alcoholic)
- Swap the gin for tonic water or soda water for a refreshing alcohol-free version.
- Keep the lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters the same.
Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Seafood: The crisp, citrusy notes cut through rich seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or ceviche.
- Spicy foods: The sweetness and acidity balance out the heat from spicy tacos or Thai curries.
- Cheese: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese complement the drink’s bright flavors.
Tips for the Best Fitzgerald
- Chill your glass ahead of time—it keeps the cocktail colder longer.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by tweaking the simple syrup.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, and I love how easy it is to make. Try it out, experiment with variations, and enjoy a timeless classic in your own way!
