The Ramos Gin Fizz, a New Orleans classic, is a complex and delightful cocktail known for its creamy texture, citrusy notes, and signature frothy head. Created in 1888 by Henry Charles “Carl” Ramos at the Imperial Cabinet Saloon, this drink has stood the test of time, becoming a beloved (and sometimes dreaded) staple in bars around the world. The key to a perfect Ramos Gin Fizz lies in the quality of ingredients and, perhaps most importantly, the extensive shaking required to achieve its unique consistency.
The History of the Ramos Gin Fizz
Henry Charles Ramos, the creator of the Ramos Gin Fizz, first concocted the drink at his Imperial Cabinet Saloon in New Orleans in 1888. Originally called the “New Orleans Fizz,” it quickly gained popularity, eventually taking on Ramos’ name. The Imperial Cabinet Saloon became a bustling spot, with newspapers even as far as Kansas City praising the bar for its frothy fizzes.
The Ramos Gin Fizz was so popular that Ramos reportedly employed a team of “shaker men,” also known as “shaker boys” who would work in shifts to keep up with the demand. Some accounts suggest that during Mardi Gras in 1915, he had to employ 35 bartenders just to handle the orders for this labor-intensive cocktail.
The drink’s popularity extended beyond New Orleans. Louisiana Governor Huey P. Long was particularly fond of the Ramos Gin Fizz. He even brought a bartender from the Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans to New York City to teach the staff at the New Yorker Hotel how to make it properly, ensuring he could enjoy his favorite cocktail whenever he stayed there.
In 1935, the Roosevelt Hotel’s Sazerac Bar acquired the rights to the drink’s name, further cementing its place in cocktail history. Today, bartenders at the Sazerac Bar proudly continue to make the cocktail and share the story of Henry Ramos.
Ramos Gin Fizz Recipe
Here’s a classic recipe for the Ramos Gin Fizz:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Gin (London Dry or Old Tom)
- 3/4 oz Simple Syrup
- 1/2 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
- 1/2 oz Heavy Cream
- 3 dashes Orange Flower Water
- 1 Fresh Egg White
- Club Soda, chilled
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients, except the club soda, into a cocktail shaker.
- Dry Shake: Vigorously shake without ice for 1-2 minutes. This “dry shake” helps to emulsify the egg white, creating a frothy texture.
- Shake with Ice: Add ice to the shaker and shake again for another 1-2 minutes, until well-chilled.
- Double Strain: Double strain the mixture into a chilled Collins glass. This removes any ice shards and ensures a smooth texture.
- Top with Soda: Slowly top the drink with chilled club soda, allowing the foam to rise above the rim of the glass.
- Serve: Garnish with an orange twist, if desired.
Key Ingredients Explained
- Gin: London Dry Gin is most commonly used, but Henry Ramos himself favored Old Tom Gin. The gin provides the base spirit and botanical flavors.
- Citrus: Fresh lemon and lime juice contribute to the drink’s tartness and balance the sweetness.
- Simple Syrup: Adds sweetness to balance the citrus.
- Heavy Cream: Lends richness and a creamy texture to the cocktail.
- Egg White: Essential for creating the signature frothy head and a silky mouthfeel.
- Orange Flower Water: Provides a delicate floral aroma and flavor that distinguishes the Ramos Gin Fizz from other fizzes.
- Club Soda: Adds effervescence and lightens the drink.
The Importance of Shaking
The shaking process is crucial for achieving the Ramos Gin Fizz’s signature texture. The initial dry shake emulsifies the egg white, creating a stable foam. Shaking with ice then chills the drink and further enhances the frothy texture. The extended shaking time is what makes this cocktail so labor-intensive, but it’s also what sets it apart.
Tips for the Perfect Ramos Gin Fizz
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly squeezed citrus juice and a fresh egg white are essential for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Skip the Dry Shake: The dry shake is crucial for emulsifying the egg white and creating a stable foam.
- Shake Vigorously: Don’t be afraid to put some muscle into it! The more you shake, the better the texture will be.
- Chill Your Glass: A chilled glass will help maintain the drink’s temperature and prevent the foam from dissipating too quickly.
- Pour Slowly: When topping with club soda, pour slowly to allow the foam to rise and create the signature “tower” effect.
Variations on the Ramos Gin Fizz
While the classic recipe is a masterpiece, there are many variations on the Ramos Gin Fizz that you can try:
- Sloe Gin Fizz: A variation that substitutes gin for Sloe Gin.
- Strawberry and Mango Ramos Gin Fizz: This variation includes fruit syrup and a flavored soda.
- Violet Ramos Gin Fizz: A variation that uses creme de violette to enhance the floral aroma.
- French Quarter Fizz: Another Chartreuse-driven variation, this cocktail is an homage to the Ramos Gin Fizz, which was created in the French Quarter of New Orleans.
The Ramos Gin Fizz: A Cocktail Worth the Effort
The Ramos Gin Fizz is undoubtedly a labor-intensive cocktail, but the result is a truly unique and rewarding drinking experience. Its creamy texture, complex flavors, and impressive presentation make it a standout choice for those looking to impress or simply indulge in a classic New Orleans cocktail. So, gather your ingredients, prepare to shake, and enjoy the magic of the Ramos Gin Fizz.
