The Singapore Sling is a complex and spectacular cocktail, perfect for special occasions or relaxed summer evenings. With its rich fruity flavors and exotic character, it evokes the British colonial era of Singapore. This drink offers a true sensory experience, appealing to those who enjoy flavors that highlight one another in harmony instead of competing for attention.
Story
The Singapore Sling was created in the 1910s at the Long Bar of Singapore’s Raffles Hotel. Its inventor, bar manager Ngiam Tong Boon, aimed to develop a colorful and attractive drink that women could enjoy openly, despite the social norms of the time. Although no one preserved the original recipe over the years, modern versions strive to stay faithful to its spirit.
Ingredients
1 oz (30 ml) gin
½ oz (15 ml) cherry liqueur (e.g., Heering)
¼ oz (7.5 ml) Cointreau
¼ oz (7.5 ml) Dom Benedictine
1 ⅓ oz (40 ml) pineapple juice
½ oz (15 ml) lime juice
⅛ oz (0.25 ml) grenadine or pomegranate syrup
1 dash Angostura bitters
How to Make a Singapore Sling Cocktail
Pour all the ingredients into a shaker filled with ice. Shake well to chill the drink and blend the flavors thoroughly. Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
Serving and Garnish
The Singapore Sling is typically served in a large, sometimes decorative, highball glass. Garnish with pineapple chunks, maraschino cherries, or orange slices along the rim to enhance the cocktail’s tropical character.
Calorie Content
A single serving of the Singapore Sling cocktail contains approximately 230–250 calories, depending primarily on the sugar content of the juices and liqueurs.