There’s something special about a Ginger Rogers cocktail—it’s crisp, minty, and just the right amount of zesty. It’s one of those drinks that feels equally at home at a backyard BBQ or a cozy night in with friends. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it always hits the spot. Whether you’re new to cocktails or just looking to shake up your usual lineup, this one’s worth a try.
Ginger Rogers
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Highball (or a mason jar for a fun, casual twist)
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) gin
– A small handful of fresh mint leaves (about 6–8 leaves)
– 0.75 oz (22 ml) fresh lemon juice (juice from about half a lemon)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– Ginger ale, to top (about 3–4 oz / 90–120 ml)
– Ice cubes
– Optional garnish: mint sprig, slice of ginger, or lemon twist
Method
- In the bottom of a cocktail shaker or sturdy glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup. You’re looking to release the mint’s oils—not tear it to pieces. A few firm presses with a muddler or the back of a spoon will do.
- Add the gin and lemon juice. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 10–15 seconds, until everything’s chilled and well mixed.
- Fill a highball glass with ice. Strain the mixture into the glass using a fine mesh strainer if you want to avoid mint bits (totally optional).
- Top with ginger ale—just enough to fill the glass and give it that nice fizz. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint, a thin slice of fresh ginger, or a twist of lemon peel. Sip and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
– Fresh is best: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor. Bottled works in a pinch, but it won’t have quite the same zing.
– Clap your mint: Before garnishing, give your mint sprig a quick clap between your hands—it wakes up the aroma without bruising the leaves.
– Adjust the sweetness: If you like a less sweet drink, use a little less simple syrup or swap it for honey or agave syrup.
– Ginger ale vs. ginger beer: Ginger ale is milder and sweeter, while ginger beer has a bolder, spicier kick. Try both to see what you prefer.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can prep the simple syrup and squeeze the lemon juice ahead of time. Store them in the fridge, and you’ll be ready to mix a Ginger Rogers in under a minute. Just don’t muddle the mint until you’re ready to serve—it’s best fresh.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed right after mixing. If you need to mix a batch ahead of time, combine everything except the ginger ale and mint. Store it chilled, then add the ginger ale and fresh mint just before serving.
Flavor Profile
A Ginger Rogers is bright and refreshing, with a nice balance between citrusy tartness, herbal mint, and the gentle spice of ginger. It’s not too sweet, and the gin adds a botanical layer without overpowering things. Think of it as a cousin to the mojito, but with a gingery twist.
Why It Works
The lemon juice brings acidity, the simple syrup balances it with sweetness, and the ginger ale adds both fizz and that signature warm spice. Mint lifts everything with a cool herbal note. When you shake the cocktail before pouring, it chills and dilutes just enough to mellow the flavors and make it super sippable.
Substitutions
– Gin: Vodka works if you’re not a gin fan. It’ll give a cleaner, more neutral base.
– Simple syrup: Try honey syrup (mix equal parts honey and hot water) or agave for a natural touch.
– Ginger ale: Swap with ginger beer if you want a stronger ginger punch. Or mix ginger ale with a splash of soda water for less sweetness.
Variations to Try
Rosemary Ginger Rogers
– Muddle a small sprig of rosemary with the mint for an earthy, fragrant twist.
Spicy Ginger Rogers
– Add a thin slice of jalapeño or a tiny pinch of cayenne when muddling for some heat.
Peachy Ginger Rogers
– Muddle fresh peach slices with the mint for a fruity summer version. Peach nectar also works.
Virgin Ginger Rogers (Mocktail)
– Skip the gin and use extra ginger ale or add a splash of soda water for balance. Still fresh, still delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with food. Here are a few of my go-to pairings:
– Spicy Asian dishes: The mint and ginger cool down the heat from Thai or Szechuan cuisine.
– Grilled meats: Especially chicken or pork—the drink cuts through the smokiness and refreshes your palate.
– Fresh salads: Especially those with citrusy dressings or fruit like mango or strawberries.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s easy to make, super refreshing, and always gets compliments.
FAQs
Can I make a Ginger Rogers without alcohol?
Yes! Just leave out the gin and add a little more ginger ale or some soda water. You’ll still get that refreshing, minty kick.
What kind of gin works best?
A London Dry Gin is classic—clean and crisp. If you like a touch of sweetness, try an Old Tom Gin.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
If you’re in a pinch, yes. But fresh lemon juice makes a big difference in the final flavor.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the simple syrup or swap it for a natural sweetener like honey. You can also use a less sweet ginger ale or cut it with soda water.
What’s the best way to garnish it?
A fresh mint sprig looks lovely and boosts the aroma. A slice of ginger or a lemon twist adds a nice visual and flavor touch.
Whether you’re shaking up a single glass or making a batch for friends, the Ginger Rogers is a refreshing, easygoing cocktail that brings a little sparkle to any moment. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to tweak it to your taste.
