South Side

A refreshing gin classic brightened with fresh citrus, mint, and a touch of sweetness.

Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Makes 1
Level: Easy

Behind the recipe

The story behind the pour

The South Side has earned its place as a classic through a refreshing balance of gin, citrus, and mint. Homemade lemon syrup adds depth, while gently muddled mint releases fragrance without becoming bitter. Crushed ice chills and softly dilutes the drink, and a mint garnish gives the coupe an elegant finish. Its versatility makes it equally at home at a casual summer gathering or a more polished cocktail party.

Method

Make it

01
Combine the filtered water, sugar, and lemon peel in a small saucepan and bring to a boil.
02
Stir until the sugar has fully dissolved.
03
Lower the heat, cover, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
04
Remove the lemon peels, strain into a container, and allow to cool for 30 minutes.
05
Add the fresh mint leaves to the cocktail shaker and gently press them with a muddler to release their natural oils and aroma.
06
Add ice cubes to the shaker, then pour in the gin, lemon simple syrup, freshly squeezed lime juice, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
07
Shake well.
08
Fill the coupe glass with crushed ice cubes.
09
Double strain the Southside Cocktail into the coupe glass and garnish with a mint sprig.

Cocktail notes

Why this Southside feels different

Homemade lemon syrup, carefully handled mint, and crushed ice turn a familiar gin sour into a polished warm-weather drink.

Lemon-peel syrup

Simmer equal parts water and sugar with broad lemon peels for five minutes. Strain and cool; the peel adds citrus oil and depth without extra acidity.

Press the mint gently

Light pressure releases fragrant oils. Aggressive muddling tears the leaves and can add bitterness, especially once the cocktail is shaken.

Double-strain over crushed ice

Double-straining removes small mint fragments while crushed ice chills and gently dilutes the drink. The result is crisp enough for a casual afternoon and elegant enough for a cocktail party.