Original Pink Gin Cocktail: The Classic That’s Cooler Than You Think

This one’s got that slow-sip energy. There is no mixers, sugar rim or drama of any kind; it’s just gin, bitters and good taste.

The original pink gin isn’t trying to be cute. It’s got a soft color but a strong presence. The kind of drink you pour when the playlist hits just right and the night doesn’t need anything else.

It’s simple, sharp and a little bit mysterious. One of those cocktails that makes you feel like you’re in on something.

Born from British sailors trying to make bitters go down easier, it turned into a ritual. Now it’s a mood. One sip and you’ll get it.

What Is a Pink Gin and Why You’ll Love It

Pink gin is as simple as it gets. Just gin and bitters. No mixers, no fluff. But that’s exactly what makes it feel so intentional.

It started with sailors in the 1800s trying to mellow out the taste of Angostura bitters. They added a splash of sweeter gin like Plymouth and created something that stuck.

What you get is a drink that’s dry, bold and a little herbal. There’s heat from the alcohol, depth from the bitters and just enough smoothness to keep it from being harsh.

It’s perfect when you want something classic but not boring. Low effort, high reward and always feels like a power move.

Tips To Make It Perfectly At Home

This one’s easy to make but a few small moves can help it hit just right:

• Use Plymouth gin: It’s a little softer than London dry and keeps the drink balanced.
• Add bitters first: That way it mixes better when the gin hits the glass.
• Chill your glass: Keeps the flavor tight and makes it feel more polished.
• Stir gently: No shaking needed. You want it cold but not cloudy.
• Keep the garnish simple: A lemon twist or mint sprig is plenty. Nothing extra.

Food Pairing Ideas for a Pink Gin

Pink gin leans dry, strong and slightly bitter thanks to the Angostura. There’s no citrus juice or sweetener to round it out, so you need food that softens the edges or plays off the boldness.

Salty snacks work, rich bites hold their own and a little acidity or fat goes a long way. Think of it like the drink version of a well-tailored suit… clean, sharp and not here for the small talk.

Salted almonds or briny olives: The salt cuts the bitterness and gives your taste buds something to hold on to.

Prosciutto or aged hard cheese: That hit of fat and umami balances the dry gin and brings out the botanical notes.

Citrus cured seafood: Something like ceviche or shrimp with lemon adds a pop of acid that mirrors the bitters without overpowering it.

Herb roasted nuts or crostini: Keeps it earthy and adds texture. Bitters love herbs.

Dark chocolate with sea salt: Just sweet enough to contrast the drink and smooth out the finish.

The Classic Pink Gin

Ingredients

• 2 oz Plymouth gin
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Ice cubes
• Lime or lemon wedge for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Zero-proof version: Swap the gin for a botanical non-alcoholic gin and use aromatic bitters that are alcohol free. Keep the pour clean and simple with just a twist of lemon or a mint sprig for garnish to hold that same classic mood.

Instructions

1. Put the dash of Angostura bitters into the glass.
2. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
3. Pour the gin over the ice.
4. Garnish with a lime or lemon wedge and mint leaves if using.
5. Stir gently and serve immediately.

Prep Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 1 cocktail
• Calories: 120 kcal
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g

Easy Pink Gin Variations to Try

Once you’ve tried the classic you can play around with it and still keep the mood. These spins keep the spirit of the drink but add a little something extra without turning it into a whole new cocktail:

Add a splash of tonic or soda: Softens the intensity and stretches the drink for slower sipping.

Try orange or grapefruit bitters: A citrusy twist that shifts the whole profile without losing the edge.

Use a floral gin: Something with lavender or rose gives it a softer finish.

Stir in a bit of vermouth: Adds depth and a slightly smoother mouthfeel.

Dash in some elderflower liqueur: Just a touch can round it out and add a floral contrast.

Need inspiration for some other Gin based cocktails? Why not try a Singapore Sling, a Lavender Love Potion, or a Corpse Reviver No. 2?

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Yield: 1

Original Pink Gin Cocktail Recipe

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A timeless cocktail with a twist, this original pink gin blends dry gin and a dash of bitters for a simple yet elegant drink. Perfect for dinner parties

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 60 ml Plymouth gin
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Ice cubes
• Lime or lemon wedge for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Put the dash of Angostura bitters into the glass.
2. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
3. Pour the gin over the ice.
4. Garnish with a lime or lemon wedge and mint leaves if using.
5. Stir gently and serve immediately.

Notes

Zero-proof version: Swap the gin for a botanical non-alcoholic gin and use aromatic bitters that are alcohol free. Keep the pour clean and simple with just a twist of lemon or a mint sprig for garnish to hold that same classic mood.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

1

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 149Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 5mgCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 4gSugar: 3gProtein: 1g

This nutrition information was automatically calculated by Nutritionix, but may not be 100% accurate.