Alabama Fizz

Pro tips

• Shake the gin, lemon juice, and powdered sugar vigorously with ice for at least 10 seconds to fully dissolve the sugar and chill the drink.
• Use fresh-squeezed lemon juice—bottled lemon juice will result in a flatter, more acidic flavor.
• Top with cold sparkling water or soda water just before serving to preserve carbonation and maintain the fizz.
• Chill your glass beforehand to keep the cocktail cold longer without diluting from melting ice.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → any London Dry style gin (e.g., Tanqueray, Beefeater)
• Powdered Sugar → 1/2 oz simple syrup (dissolves faster, slightly less texture)

Storage & make-ahead

Mix and serve immediately; do not store pre-made. Prepare the gin, lemon, and sugar mixture in advance if desired, then shake with ice and top with sparkling water when ready to serve.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · strainer

What type of gin works best for an Alabama Fizz?

A dry gin like Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin is traditional. London Dry style gins are ideal as they have botanical complexity without heavy sweetness.

Do I need to use powdered sugar or can I substitute with simple syrup?

Simple syrup works well as a substitute and mixes faster, though powdered sugar adds a subtle texture and is traditional to the recipe.

Should the Alabama Fizz be shaken or stirred?

Shake vigorously with ice to chill and dilute slightly, then strain into a glass topped with sparkling water or soda water.

Can I make this drink without sparkling water?

The fizz is essential to the drink's character, but still water works; however, the drink loses its signature effervescence and refresh.