Ramos Gin Fizz: The Creamy Classic Cocktail

The Ramos Gin Fizz is a legendary cocktail with a story as rich and frothy as its texture. Born in New Orleans in the late 1800s, this drink was created by Henry C. Ramos. He wanted to craft a cocktail that was unlike any other — creamy, citrusy, and utterly smooth with a cloud-like foam on top. It quickly became a sensation, known for its long, vigorous shaking and distinctive flavor.

What makes the Ramos Gin Fizz stand out is its unique blend of ingredients and the texture that comes from egg white and cream. It’s a gin-based fizz, but not your average one. Instead of just lemon or lime juice, it uses both, combined with orange flower water for a subtle floral hint. The cream adds a luscious mouthfeel, and the egg white creates that signature fluffy foam. The secret to the perfect Ramos Gin Fizz? Patience and a strong arm for shaking — it traditionally requires a full 12 minutes of shaking to get that velvety texture.

Here’s an original recipe that captures the essence of this classic:

**Ramos Gin Fizz**

1) 45 ml gin (preferably a London dry style)

2) 15 ml fresh lemon juice

3) 15 ml fresh lime juice

4) 30 ml simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water)

5) 60 ml heavy cream

6) 1 egg white

7) 3 dashes orange flower water

8) Soda water to top

9) Ice cubes

**Method**

1) In a shaker, combine the gin, lemon and lime juice, simple syrup, cream, egg white, and orange flower water.

2) Dry shake (no ice) vigorously for about 10 seconds to start emulsifying the egg white.

3) Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake again very hard for at least 2 minutes. The longer you shake, the creamier and frothier the drink becomes.

4) Strain into a chilled Collins glass without ice.

5) Top gently with soda water to create a frothy head that rises above the rim.

6) Serve immediately and enjoy the cloud-like texture and bright citrus flavors.

The Ramos Gin Fizz is a cocktail that demands respect and patience, but rewards with a luxurious, creamy sip that feels like a celebration in a glass.

This cocktail remains a favorite for those who love a creamy, citrusy fizz with a bit of theatrical flair, and it remains a timeless crowd-pleaser like the classic Ramos Gin Fizz recipe

"History and Legacy

The Ramos Gin Fizz was an instant hit in New Orleans. Back in the day, bartenders would compete to see who could shake the best fizz, often employing multiple bartenders to share the workload during busy nights. The cocktail was so popular that it became a staple at the World’s Fairs and in high-end bars across the United States.

Tips for the Perfect Ramos Gin Fizz

1) Use fresh citrus juice every time. Bottled lemon or lime juice won't give you the bright, fresh flavor you need.

2) Don’t skimp on the shaking time. The long shake is what transforms the drink into its signature creamy texture.

3) Use a good quality gin. The botanicals in the gin will shine through the cream and citrus, so choose one with a clean, balanced profile.

4) Orange flower water is essential. It adds a delicate floral note that sets this fizz apart from other sours or fizzes.

Variations to Try

Some bartenders like to experiment by adding a touch of vanilla syrup instead of simple syrup for a sweeter, dessert-like version. Others swap the gin for white rum or even tequila for a different twist. But the classic Ramos Gin Fizz remains a benchmark for creamy, shaken cocktails.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this cocktail in a tall glass to show off its frothy top. It pairs well with brunch dishes, light salads, or seafood, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself, the Ramos Gin Fizz is a cocktail that never goes out of style.