Southside

Imagine this: the roaring twenties, jazzy and darkly smoky speakeasies. A time when the mere mention of a cocktail could get you into trouble.

In the heart of Prohibition-era America, where secret bars and clandestine gatherings ruled, there was a drink that became a symbol of rebellion and creativity. Its name? The minty-fresh Southside Cocktail.

In the 1920s and 1930s, when the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages was banned in the USA, the Southside was offered in the countless illegal bars. The reason: the refreshing mint and the light aroma of citrus fruits were ideal for masking the harsh taste of the smuggled and often secretly distilled spirits.

Where does the name come from?

The origin of the name is the subject of some debate. Some trace it back to the notorious South Side of Chicago, where gangsters and bootleggers ruled the streets during Prohibition. Others believe the name is a reference to the Southside Sportsmen's Club, a well-known social club in Long Island, New York.

Incidentally, the Southside even has a connection to the world of film. In the film "The Great Gatsby", based on the iconic novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the Southside cocktail is served with relish. This underlines its status as a synonym for the glamorous, wild twenties.

Southside cocktail recipe

Ingredients (for 2 portions):

• 9 cl gin
• 3 cl lemon juice
• 3 cl sugar syrup
• 12-16 fresh mint leaves
• 2 lemon zests

Preparation:

1. Place the mint leaves (except for 2) in a shaker and muddle gently.
2. Add the gin, lemon juice and sugar syrup. Fill up with ice cubes and shake vigorously.
3. Strain the mixture into two chilled cocktail glasses.
4. Garnish each with a mint leaf and lemon zest.

The Southside Cocktail is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cocktails, and its fresh, citrusy notes make it the perfect choice for anyone who appreciates a touch of history in their glass. Cheers to the timeless elegance of this Prohibition-era favorite!