Rail Splitter
A classic vintage mocktail named in honor of Abraham Lincoln. This refreshing cooler balances tart lemon juice with sweet sugar syrup, finished with the spicy effervescence of ginger ale for a perfect thirst-quencher.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by spicy ginger and sharp lemon zest. On the palate, the tart citrus is balanced by the sugar syrup and the carbonated sweetness of the ginger ale. The mouthfeel is effervescent and light, finishing with a lingering prickle of ginger heat and a clean acidity.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Sugar Syrup2 tsp
- Lemon Juice0.5 oz
- Ginger Ale5 oz
- Ice1 ml
Preparation
- 1
Pour the sugar syrup and freshly squeezed lemon juice into a highball glass.
- 2
Stir briskly to fully combine the syrup and juice.
- 3
Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- 4
Top up with chilled ginger ale.
- 5
Stir gently to mix without losing the carbonation.
- 6
Serve immediately.
Substitutions
- Sugar SyrupHoney Syrup — Honey adds a floral, earthy depth to the drink's sweetness.
- Lemon JuiceLime Juice — Lime provides a sharper, more tropical acidity compared to the brightness of lemon.
- Ginger AleGinger Beer — Ginger beer creates a much spicier profile and a cloudy appearance.
- Sugar SyrupAgave Nectar — Agave yields a more neutral sweetness with a slightly thicker mouthfeel.
Variations
Spiced Splitter
Add two dashes of aromatic bitters to introduce herbal complexity and a dry, woodsy finish.
Apple Splitter
Replace half of the ginger ale with sparkling apple cider for a crisp, autumnal fruit profile.