The Clover Club cocktail, a pre-Prohibition gem, is experiencing a revival, captivating modern palates with its unique blend of flavors and silky texture. This elegant drink, with its delicate pink hue and frothy top, is more than just a pretty face; it’s a testament to the rich history of cocktail culture and the enduring appeal of well-crafted libations.
A Gilded Age Origin
The story of the Clover Club begins in the late 1800s during the Gilded Age, a time when cocktail culture was flourishing. It was named after the prestigious Clover Club, an exclusive gentlemen’s club that met at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel in Philadelphia. This club, initially composed of journalists, later included lawyers, bankers, and prominent businessmen, who gathered to discuss the issues of the day, accompanied by fine drinks. The Clover Club cocktail, with its sophisticated mix of gin, lemon, raspberry, and egg white, quickly became a favorite among this refined set.
From Philadelphia to the World
While the cocktail’s exact origins are debated, it’s widely accepted that it gained popularity as a symbol of sophistication and exclusivity in the late 19th century. By 1910, the Clover Club was being enjoyed far beyond Philadelphia, appearing on menus of prominent hotels such as the Plaza in New York City. Early recipes appeared in print as far back as 1901, cementing its place in cocktail history.
A Temporary Decline
Despite its early popularity, the Clover Club, like many pre-Prohibition cocktails, faced a decline during the 20th century, particularly during the Prohibition era. However, this classic libation didn’t fade away completely.
A Modern Resurgence
In recent years, the Clover Club has made a remarkable comeback, thanks in part to its inclusion in modern cocktail books and the dedication of bartenders who appreciate its unique character. The opening of the Clover Club bar in Brooklyn in 2008 further solidified its resurgence, ensuring this classic cocktail remains a staple in the contemporary cocktail scene.
The Anatomy of a Clover Club
The classic Clover Club is a harmonious blend of four essential ingredients, each contributing to its distinct character:
- Gin: The base spirit, traditionally a London Dry style, providing botanical notes that complement the other flavors. Plymouth Gin or Ford’s Gin are also excellent choices.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, tart element that balances the sweetness of the raspberry syrup and cuts through the richness of the egg white.
- Raspberry Syrup: Provides a sweet, fruity note and the signature pink hue of the cocktail. Homemade raspberry syrup is often preferred for the best flavor.
- Egg White: The secret ingredient that creates the cocktail’s velvety texture and frothy head. It acts as an emulsifier, binding the ingredients together to create a smooth and luscious drink.
Optional additions
Some recipes include Dry Vermouth, which enhances the herbal and citrus complexity, creating a more well-rounded flavour.
Crafting the Perfect Clover Club
While the ingredient list is relatively short, proper technique is essential to achieving the perfect Clover Club. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add 1.5 oz of gin, 0.5 oz of dry vermouth (optional), 0.5 oz of fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz of raspberry syrup, and 0.25 oz or about half an egg white.
- Dry Shake: This is a crucial step. Shake the ingredients vigorously without ice for about 10-20 seconds. This emulsifies the egg white, creating a smooth and frothy texture.
- Add Ice and Shake: Add ice to the shaker and shake again for about 20-30 seconds, until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Double Strain: Strain the cocktail through a fine-mesh strainer into a chilled coupe glass. This removes any ice chips and ensures a silky smooth drink.
- Garnish: Garnish with a few fresh raspberries, often speared on a cocktail pick, or a lemon peel.
The Importance of the Dry Shake
The dry shake step is paramount in creating the Clover Club’s signature texture. Shaking without ice initially helps to properly emulsify the egg white, creating a stable foam that won’t collapse. Some bartenders recommend a vigorous dry shake for at least a minute to achieve the best results.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and homemade raspberry syrup will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your Clover Club.
- Quality Gin: Opt for a good quality London Dry gin or Plymouth Gin, as the gin’s flavour will greatly impact the final taste.
- Pasteurized Egg White: If you are concerned about using raw egg white, pasteurized egg white is a safe alternative.
- Shake Vigorously: Don’t be afraid to shake hard and long to ensure the drink is well-chilled and the egg white is properly emulsified.
- Chill your glass: For the optimal experience, chill your coupe glass beforehand.
Variations on a Theme
While the classic recipe is a thing of beauty, there are many ways to experiment and create your own unique version of the Clover Club:
- Substituting the syrup: Instead of raspberry syrup, try using grenadine, strawberry, blackberry or red currant syrup.
- Different spirits: While gin is traditional, vodka can be used as a substitute for those who are not fans of gin.
- Citrus Variations: Lime juice can be used instead of lemon juice for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Adding Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like mint as a garnish can add a fresh twist.
- Vegan Clover Club: A vegan version can be made by replacing the egg white with aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, which also provides the desired foam.
- Sherry Variation: Some modern twists include the addition of Manzanilla sherry to enhance the overall drinking experience, adding a briny character.
The Enduring Appeal
The Clover Club cocktail’s continued popularity is a testament to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tartness of the lemon, the sweetness of the raspberry, the botanicals of the gin, and the smooth, frothy texture of the egg white create a symphony on the palate. It’s a drink that is both refreshing and sophisticated, making it suitable for any occasion.
Whether you are a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of mixed drinks, the Clover Club is a must-try. This timeless classic offers a glimpse into the past while remaining utterly relevant and delicious in the present. By mastering the techniques and experimenting with variations, you can discover your own perfect version of this iconic cocktail.
