A Keeley cocktail is bright, bubbly, and just the kind of drink you’ll want to have in hand on a sunny afternoon or to kick off a relaxed evening with friends. It’s citrusy, lightly sweet, and topped with a refreshing splash of soda water. I’ve made this drink countless times—here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: shaking with plenty of ice makes all the difference in keeping the flavors crisp and clean.
Keeley
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail | Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup (see tip below)
– Soda water, to top
– Ice cubes
– Lemon twist, for garnish
Glassware: A chilled Champagne flute shows off the bubbles nicely, but a highball glass works just as well for a more relaxed feel.
Method
- Fill a shaker with ice. Don’t skimp—the more ice, the better the chill.
- Pour in the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well—about 15 seconds. You want it icy cold.
- Strain into your chilled glass. If using a highball, add fresh ice first.
- Top with soda water. Just a splash or two—enough to give it that fizzy lift.
- Gently stir once to mix, but don’t overdo it or you’ll lose the bubbles.
- Garnish with a lemon twist. Run it along the rim first for a burst of citrus aroma, then drop it in.
Tips & Notes
– Simple syrup: To make your own, just stir equal parts sugar and hot water until dissolved. Cool before using. Keeps in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
– Substitutions: No gin? Vodka works too—it’s smoother and lets the citrus shine more. For a floral twist, try elderflower syrup instead of simple syrup.
– Make-ahead: You can mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time and store in the fridge. Just wait to add soda water until right before serving so it stays bubbly.
– Fresh vs bottled lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best—it gives that clean, tart pop. Bottled can taste flat or overly sour.
Flavor Profile
Keeley is crisp and citrus-forward, with just enough sweetness to round things out. The gin adds a subtle botanical note, but it’s not overpowering. That splash of soda water brings everything together, making it light and refreshing. It reminds me of summer garden parties and clinking glasses at golden hour.
Serving Suggestions
Here’s what I love pairing it with:
Grilled Chicken Skewers
The lemony tang of the cocktail cuts through the savory char of grilled meat beautifully.
Fresh Summer Salad
Think arugula, berries, goat cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette. The flavors echo the Keeley’s brightness.
Vanilla Panna Cotta
A soft, creamy dessert with a hint of sweetness pairs nicely with the cocktail’s citrusy zip.
Variations
Rosemary Bliss
– Add a sprig of rosemary to the shaker.
– Muddle it gently with the lemon juice before adding other ingredients.
– Strain as usual and garnish with a tiny rosemary sprig.
Berry Delight
– Toss in a handful of fresh berries (raspberries or blackberries work great).
– Muddle with the syrup before shaking with gin and lemon juice.
– Strain well to keep the texture smooth.
Spiced Autumn
– Add a dash of apple cider and a cinnamon stick to the shaker.
– Shake with gin, lemon juice, and syrup.
– Garnish with a thin apple slice or cinnamon stick.
Virgin Keeley (Non-Alcoholic)
– Mix 0.5 oz (15 ml) each of lemon juice and simple syrup.
– Top with soda water in a glass of ice.
– Garnish with a lemon twist. Still super refreshing!
Storage
If you’re making a batch for a party, mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup up to a day ahead and keep chilled in a sealed container. Just stir before using and top each serving with soda water individually for best fizz.
Common Questions
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but fresh really makes a difference. Bottled often lacks the brightness that fresh juice brings.
Is the Keeley a strong drink?
It’s on the lighter side. The soda water and citrus balance out the gin nicely, making it easy to sip.
What gin works best?
A classic London dry gin is a safe bet, but if you prefer something more floral or citrusy, go with that—it’s a flexible drink.
Can I make a big batch?
Yes! Just multiply the gin, lemon juice, and syrup. Keep it chilled, then add soda water to each glass when serving.
How do I make it sweeter or less sweet?
Adjust the simple syrup to your taste. Start with 0.5 oz (15 ml) and go from there. You can also try honey or agave for a different flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Keeley has become one of my go-to cocktails for summer nights. It’s quick to make, easy to tweak, and always feels a little bit special—like a toast to the moment. Whether you’re serving it at brunch, a backyard get-together, or just treating yourself after a long day, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. Try one of the variations next time or pair it with a simple appetizer spread. Cheers!
