Southside Rickey
A sublime marriage of gin, mint, and lime lengthened with club soda. The effervescent intersection of the Southside and Gin Rickey.
15%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
highball
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Southside Rickey marries two classic cocktails: the Southside (gin, mint, lime, sugar) and the Gin Rickey (gin, lime, soda water). Born from the resourcefulness of the Prohibition era, it embodies the refreshing sophistication of American highballs while showcasing the cooling properties of mint and effervescence.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a highball or Collins glass by filling with ice and water
In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle mint leaves with simple syrup
Add gin and fresh lime juice to the shaker
Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds
Empty chilling ice from serving glass and fill with fresh ice
Double strain the shaken ingredients into the prepared glass
Top with chilled club soda
Gently stir with bar spoon to integrate
Garnish with fresh mint sprig and lime wheel
Glassware
Served tall in a chilled highball or Collins glass
Garnish
Fresh sprig, gently spanked to release aroma
Fresh lime wheel
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Gently muddle mint to release oils, not pulverize leaves
Use freshly squeezed lime juice for optimal brightness
Double strain to remove mint particles
Keep all ingredients as cold as possible
Never shake the club soda - add after straining
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Southside Rickey.
Drier Version
Reduce simple syrup for a more tart, gin-forward drink.
Changes
Extra Minty
Increase mint leaves for more pronounced mint flavor.
Changes
Vodka Rickey
Substitute vodka for a cleaner, less botanical profile.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Southside
Gin, lime, mint, and simple syrup. Chicago's answer to the mojito.
Virgin Mojito
All the mint-lime sparkle of a Mojito minus the rum, a staple of modern mocktail menus.
Southside Fizz
A timeless and refreshing cocktail that elegantly marries the botanical complexities of gin with the bright, aromatic notes of fresh mint and citrus, all lifted by the effervescence of soda water.