Singapore Sling

Pro tips

• Always use fresh-squeezed lemon juice—bottled juice will dull the drink's crisp character.
• Chill your glass with ice before straining the cocktail into it to maintain temperature and dilution balance.
• Use a quality dry gin; heavily spiced or juniper-forward gins can compete with the cherry nectar rather than complement it.
• Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to ensure proper chilling and emulsification of the cherry nectar with citrus.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Cherry Nectar → Cherry syrup or cherry liqueur (adjust ratio; liqueur will be drier and more concentrated)
• Benedictine → Chartreuse or Drambuie (changes herbal profile but maintains complexity)
• Fresh lemon juice → Lime juice (creates a different but valid tropical variant)

Equipment

cocktail shaker · strainer · jigger or measuring spoon

What is the difference between a Singapore Sling and other gin sours?

The Singapore Sling's defining ingredient is cherry nectar, which gives it a distinctive sweetness and fruity character absent in standard gin sours. The addition of Benedictine adds herbal complexity that sets it apart.

Can I make a Singapore Sling without Benedictine?

Yes, though the drink will lack its herbal depth. You can substitute with a small amount of other herbal liqueurs like Chartreuse or omit it entirely for a simpler cherry-gin cocktail.

Should a Singapore Sling be shaken or stirred?

Shake with ice to chill and properly blend the cherry nectar with citrus and gin, then strain into a glass.

What type of gin works best in a Singapore Sling?

A dry, London Dry-style gin works best to balance the cherry sweetness. Avoid heavily botanicaled gins that may overpower the drink.

How do I get the best lemon juice for this cocktail?

Fresh-squeezed lemon juice is essential; bottled juice lacks the brightness needed to balance the cherry and herbal components.