Lone Tree Cooler
A classic, vintage tall drink that bridges the gap between a Gin Fizz and a cooler. This refreshing cocktail combines the botanical crispness of gin and dry vermouth with sparkling water and a hint of sweetness, finished with an elaborate citrus garnish.
What it tastes like
The drink opens with sharp citrus oils from the lemon and orange garnishes, followed by a crisp juniper and herbal profile from the gin and dry vermouth. The texture is thin and highly effervescent, providing a clean sensation on the tongue. It concludes with a dry, mineral finish and a faint trace of botanical bitterness.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Gin1.5 oz
- Dry Vermouth0.5 oz
- Powdered Sugar1 tsp
- Carbonated Water4 oz
- Lemon Peel1 whole
- Orange Spiral1 whole
Preparation
- 1
Add the powdered sugar and approximately 2 oz of the carbonated water into a chilled Collins glass.
- 2
Stir thoroughly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- 3
Fill the glass with fresh ice cubes.
- 4
Pour in the gin and dry vermouth, then stir to chill.
- 5
Top off the glass with the remaining carbonated water and stir gently one last time.
- 6
Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.
- 7
Add the orange spiral, arranging it so the end dangles attractively over the rim of the glass.
Substitutions
- Powdered SugarSimple Syrup — Using syrup ensures a more consistent texture and eliminates the risk of undissolved grains at the bottom of the glass.
- Dry VermouthLillet Blanc — This substitution introduces floral honey notes and a slightly heavier body compared to the lean profile of dry vermouth.
- Carbonated WaterClub Soda — The added minerals in club soda provide a saltier, more structured mouthfeel than plain sparkling water.
- GinVodka — This creates a more neutral profile that focuses almost entirely on the citrus garnishes and the dry vermouth.
Variations
Lone Tree Royale
Substitute the carbonated water with dry sparkling wine to increase the alcohol content and acidity.
Amber Cooler
Swap the dry vermouth for sweet rouge vermouth to produce a richer, darker drink with notes of vanilla and spice.