Paul Kushner
The Strawberry Southside is a fruit-forward variation of the classic gin cocktail, perfect for summer. Fresh strawberry and mint bring bright, garden-inspired flavors to a crisp mix of gin and lime. It’s cool, refreshing, and just the right balance of herbaceous and sweet.
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Tasting Notes
The Strawberry Southside brings a refreshing mix of cooling mint, tart lime, and sweet berry, backed by the herbal edge of gin. The muddled strawberry adds a soft fruit note without overpowering the drink, while the mint brightens each sip. Lime juice ties the flavors together, keeping the drink balanced and light. The gin gives the cocktail structure, adding subtle botanicals that linger just enough. Served chilled in a coupe glass, this cocktail lands somewhere between a mojito and a gimlet light, garden-fresh, and perfect for warm weather.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker, a muddler, a strainer, and a jigger for precise measurements. A fine-mesh strainer is helpful if you want to filter out strawberry seeds for a smoother finish. Use a coupe or Nick and Nora glass for presentation it helps focus the drink’s aromatic elements. A small paring knife will come in handy for prepping garnishes. Pre-chilling the glass will keep the drink cool without the need for additional ice, making it clean and crisp from first sip to last.
Ingredients
- 2 fresh strawberries
- 6 mint leaves
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Strawberry and mint sprig, for garnish
Instructions
- Add the strawberry and mint leaves to a shaker and gently muddle to release flavor.
- Pour in the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. Add ice.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a fresh strawberry and a mint sprig.
Pro Tips
- Use a ripe, in-season strawberry for the best flavor.
- Don’t over-muddle the mint it should be bruised, not shredded.
- Fine-strain to remove strawberry pulp and mint bits for a cleaner pour.
- Adjust syrup to taste if your strawberries are very sweet or tart.
- A London Dry gin keeps the cocktail crisp and aromatic.
- Chill your glassware to maintain temperature without dilution.
- Slap the mint sprig before garnishing to release its aroma.
When to Serve
The Strawberry Southside is ideal for spring and summer gatherings, outdoor brunches, and early evening cocktail hours. Its fresh, light profile makes it a great warm-weather aperitif or a festive welcome drink at garden parties. It’s also a good option for those who enjoy citrusy cocktails with a touch of fruit, without leaning too sweet. The visual appeal and refreshing nature make it a reliable choice when hosting or celebrating in casual to semi-formal settings.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Gin:
- Bombay Sapphire
- Tanqueray
- Beefeater
- Hendrick’s (for a more floral variation)
Similar Cocktails
- Matcha Gin Sour
- Cherry Gin Rickey
- Strawberry Rose Bramble
- Cucumber and Rose Collins
- Strawberry Coconut Daiquiri
Ingredients
- 2 fresh strawberries
- 6 mint leaves
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Strawberry and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Add the strawberry and mint leaves to a shaker and gently muddle to release flavor.
- Pour in the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. Add ice.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a fresh strawberry and a mint sprig.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use ripe strawberries for the most flavor and natural sweetness.
- Don’t over-muddle the mint just enough to release its oils without making it bitter.
- Double strain if you want a smoother texture with no pulp or mint bits.
