Casino Royale
A sophisticated pre-Prohibition style gin sour variation. This cocktail combines the botanical notes of gin with tart lemon and sweet maraschino liqueur, while the addition of an egg yolk provides a rich, creamy texture and a golden hue worthy of its high-stakes name.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by juniper and sharp citrus from the lemon juice. The egg yolk creates a thick, creamy texture that coats the palate, softening the acidity of the lemon. It tastes of herbal gin and faint cherry from the maraschino liqueur, finishing with a mild orange bitterness.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Gin2 oz
- Lemon Juice0.5 oz
- Maraschino Liqueur1 tsp
- Orange Bitters1 dash
- Egg Yolk1 whole
Preparation
- 1
Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- 2
Add the gin, lemon juice, maraschino liqueur, orange bitters, and the egg yolk to the shaker.
- 3
Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to emulsify the egg yolk and chill the drink.
- 4
Strain the mixture into a chilled sour glass.
Substitutions
- Maraschino LiqueurKirsch — Kirsch provides a similar cherry profile but is drier and less floral than maraschino.
- Lemon JuiceLime Juice — Lime adds a sharper acidity compared to the brightness of lemon.
- Egg YolkAquafaba — Two tablespoons of aquafaba mimic the foam but lack the rich, fatty mouthfeel of the yolk.
- GinVodka — Replacing gin removes the pine and herbal notes, making the citrus and egg richness the primary flavors.
Variations
Royal 75
Add an ounce of dry sparkling wine to the finished drink for carbonation and increased acidity.
Smoky Royale
Substitute half an ounce of gin for a peated Islay scotch to introduce a savory, smoky layer to the creaminess.