Bitter Lemon Cooler

The Bitter Lemon Cooler is a light and refreshing drink with a mix of citrus, herbs, and just a little sweetness. Dry vermouth and gin give it a smooth base, lemon juice adds a sharp kick, and grenadine brings a hint of fruit and color. Topped with bitter lemon soda, it has a crisp finish that’s not too sweet. Served over ice with a lemon wheel, it’s easy to make and great for daytime sipping or serving with snacks.

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Tasting Notes

The Bitter Lemon Cooler delivers a refreshing blend of citrus, herbs, and subtle bitterness. The dry vermouth and gin provide a crisp, botanical base, while fresh lemon juice adds tang and grenadine softens with a hint of red fruit. Topped with bitter lemon soda, the result is a brisk, slightly fizzy drink that balances dryness and brightness without being overly sweet. Light, cooling, and layered, it’s a drink that feels easygoing but not boring ideal for those who enjoy a little bite in their glass with a citrusy lift and clean, polished finish.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare this cocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, bar spoon, and strainer. A citrus juicer or reamer ensures fresh lemon juice, and a sharp knife helps with garnishing. Use a highball or Collins glass, which offers enough volume for the soda and ice. A shaker brings everything together smoothly, especially when working with lemon juice and grenadine. Straining over fresh ice keeps the texture light and clean, while a long-handled spoon can help gently stir in the soda after shaking to maintain its sparkle.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz dry vermouth
• 1 oz gin
• 0.25 oz lemon juice
• 0.25 oz grenadine
• 3 oz bitter lemon soda
• Garnish: lemon wheel

Instructions

• Add dry vermouth, gin, lemon juice, and grenadine to a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Shake briefly to chill and mix.
• Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
• Top with bitter lemon soda.
• Stir gently to combine.
• Garnish with a lemon wheel.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice bottled juice flattens the flavor.
• Chill the glass ahead of time to preserve carbonation.
• Shake briefly just enough to chill and mix without over-diluting.
• Add the soda after shaking to maintain its fizz.
• Garnish with a lemon wheel or a twist for an extra aromatic boost.
• Use clear ice for a clean presentation.
• Taste before topping with soda if you prefer more acidity or sweetness.
• Try a light, citrus-forward gin for a brighter profile.

When to Serve

The Bitter Lemon Cooler is well-suited for warm afternoons, brunches, or casual evening drinks. Its refreshing nature makes it great for summer gatherings, garden parties, and outdoor dinners. With lower alcohol content than many classic cocktails, it’s also an ideal option for daytime occasions or when you want something easygoing yet flavorful. Serve it as a welcome drink, pair it with light appetizers, or enjoy it poolside. Its crisp finish and gentle fizz give it wide appeal without being overpowering.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Dolin Dry Vermouth – Light and herbal, great for citrusy cocktails.
• Noilly Prat Dry Vermouth – Offers depth and slight salinity.
• Tanqueray Gin – A reliable, juniper-forward choice.
• Bombay Sapphire – Bright and smooth for a less intense botanical profile.
• Fever-Tree Bitter Lemon Soda – Clean and natural-tasting with balanced bitterness.
• Q Mixers Bitter Lemon – Crisp and not too sweet, perfect for this cocktail.

Similar Cocktails

• Aperol Fizz
• Bitter Lemon Spritz
• Empress Mango Spritz
• Strawberry Rose Bramble
• Fanta Aperol Spritz