Alabama Fizz

Pro tips

• Dissolve powdered sugar completely in the shaker before adding ice—undissolved sugar will not integrate properly and will cloud the drink.
• Use fresh ice for both shaking and serving; old or partial ice cubes dilute the cocktail unevenly.
• Shake hard and fast for 10-15 seconds to achieve proper chill and dilution; under-shaking leaves the drink warm and overly strong.
• Add soda water as the final step and stir gently to preserve carbonation; pouring from height causes excessive fizz loss.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → other London Dry gin (Tanqueray, Bols, Bombay Sapphire; flavor profile may shift slightly)
• Fresh lemon juice → lime juice (creates a different citrus character; use same volume)
• Powdered sugar → simple syrup (use 0.5 oz instead of 1 tsp; reduces grittiness if shaker is cold)

Storage & make-ahead

This drink is best served immediately after preparation. Pre-batched shaken components will separate and lose carbonation if stored longer than 2 hours.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger or measuring spoon · bar strainer · cocktail glass or highball glass

What is the difference between an Alabama Fizz and other gin fizzes?

The Alabama Fizz specifically uses Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin with fresh lemon juice and powdered sugar. Regional fizz variations may differ in gin choice, sweetener type, or garnish, but the core technique of shaking and topping with soda water remains consistent.

Should I use fresh lemon juice or bottled?

Fresh lemon juice is strongly recommended. Bottled juice lacks the bright acidity and flavor complexity needed to balance the sweetness and gin in this cocktail.

How do I properly shake this drink?

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, add gin, lemon juice, and powdered sugar. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until the outside of the shaker frosts. Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice and top with soda water.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Shake the gin, lemon, and sugar mixture up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerate. Top with soda water immediately before serving to preserve carbonation.

What type of gin works best?

Dry gin with juniper-forward botanicals works best. London Dry style gins are ideal; avoid heavily flavored or barrel-aged gins that overpower the citrus balance.