Mastering the Classic Ramos Gin Fizz in New Orleans

The Ramos Gin Fizz, a beloved cocktail that originated in New Orleans, has captivated the hearts and palates of cocktail enthusiasts for over a century. This frothy, creamy libation is a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage and its enduring influence on the world of mixology.

TL;DR

• The Ramos Gin Fizz was created by Henry C. Ramos in 1888 at his Imperial Cabinet Saloon in New Orleans.
• Its unique blend of gin, citrus juices, egg white, cream, sugar, and orange flower water creates a velvety texture and delicate floral notes.
• Establishments like the Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel and Arnaud’s French 75 Bar serve authentic versions of this classic cocktail.

The Historical Roots of the Ramos Gin Fizz

The story of the Ramos Gin Fizz begins with Henry C. Ramos, a New Orleans bartender who crafted the drink in 1888 at his bar, the Imperial Cabinet Saloon. The cocktail quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike, becoming a symbol of the city’s vibrant social scene during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The Ramos Gin Fizz’s fame grew to such heights that during the 1915 Mardi Gras celebration, Ramos had to employ a team of 35 “shaker boys” to keep up with the demand for his signature cocktail. The drink’s popularity persisted until Prohibition, which forced many bars to close their doors and led to a decline in the cocktail’s availability.

Crafting the Perfect Ramos Gin Fizz

To create a perfect Ramos Gin Fizz, one must understand the delicate balance of its ingredients and the technique required to achieve its signature texture. The traditional recipe calls for:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz heavy cream
• 1 egg white
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 2 tsp superfine sugar
• 3 drops orange flower water
• Soda water

The preparation process involves combining all ingredients (except soda water) in a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shaking vigorously for several minutes. This extended shaking time is crucial for creating the drink’s velvety smooth texture and frothy head. Once the mixture is well-shaken, strain it into a chilled glass and top with a splash of soda water.

The Art of Mixing: Techniques from Master Bartenders

New Orleans bartenders take great pride in their ability to craft the perfect Ramos Gin Fizz. At Bar Tonique, bartender Mark Schettler shares his technique for mastering this classic cocktail. He emphasizes the importance of a dry shake (shaking without ice) to emulsify the egg white before adding ice and shaking again to chill and dilute the drink.

Some mixologists add their own modern twists to the classic recipe, such as substituting gin with other spirits like vodka or rum, or incorporating fresh herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles. However, most New Orleans establishments strive to maintain the authenticity of the original recipe, ensuring that patrons can experience the true essence of this timeless cocktail.

Essential Ingredients: What Makes a Genuine Ramos Gin Fizz?

Each ingredient in the Ramos Gin Fizz plays a crucial role in creating its distinct flavor profile and texture. The gin provides a botanical backbone, while the citrus juices add brightness and acidity. The cream and egg white contribute to the drink’s silky smooth mouthfeel, and the orange flower water imparts a delicate floral aroma.

When selecting ingredients, bartenders often opt for high-quality, aromatic gins such as Old Tom or London Dry styles. The use of fresh citrus juices and real cream is essential for achieving the desired balance of flavors. The orange flower water, though used sparingly, is a key component that sets the Ramos Gin Fizz apart from other fizz cocktails.

Where to Experience the Best Ramos Gin Fizz in New Orleans

To savor an authentic Ramos Gin Fizz, head to one of New Orleans’ renowned bars or restaurants known for their expertly crafted cocktails. The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel (130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, LA 70112; Open daily 11am-2am) is a must-visit spot, as they have been serving the drink since the hotel acquired the rights to the recipe from Henry Ramos himself.

Another top choice is Arnaud’s French 75 Bar (813 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112; Open Wed-Sun 5pm-10pm), where head bartender Chris Hannah and his team have perfected the art of the Ramos Gin Fizz. Their version stays true to the original recipe while showcasing the bar’s commitment to quality ingredients and precise technique.

For a more intimate setting, visit Bar Tonique (820 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116; Open Mon-Fri 4pm-2am, Sat-Sun 12pm-2am), a cozy cocktail lounge known for its knowledgeable bartenders and expertly crafted classics. Here, you can watch as your Ramos Gin Fizz is meticulously prepared, from the dry shake to the final pour.

The Cultural Significance of the Ramos Gin Fizz in New Orleans

The Ramos Gin Fizz is more than just a cocktail; it’s a symbol of New Orleans’ rich culinary heritage and its enduring influence on the world of mixology. The drink has become an integral part of the city’s festivals and celebrations, such as Mardi Gras and Tales of the Cocktail, where bartenders from around the globe gather to share their passion for the craft.

The local tourism industry has also embraced the Ramos Gin Fizz as a must-try experience for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the city’s unique culture. Many New Orleans establishments proudly feature the cocktail on their menus, often with their own signature twists, as a way to honor the drink’s legacy while showcasing their creativity.

Learning from the Experts: Master Classes and Tasting Sessions

For those eager to explore the art of crafting the perfect Ramos Gin Fizz, New Orleans offers a variety of cocktail classes and tasting sessions led by experienced bartenders and mixologists. These events provide a hands-on opportunity to learn the techniques and secrets behind this iconic drink.

Tales of the Cocktail, an annual festival celebrating the history and culture of cocktails, often features seminars and workshops dedicated to the Ramos Gin Fizz. Attendees can learn from industry experts, sample various interpretations of the classic recipe, and gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication required to master this beloved cocktail.

Preserving Tradition While Innovating

As the cocktail scene continues to evolve, New Orleans establishments strive to balance tradition with innovation when serving the Ramos Gin Fizz. While many bars and restaurants remain committed to the classic recipe and preparation methods, others seek to put their own creative spin on the drink without compromising its integrity.

For example, some bartenders may experiment with infusing the gin with unique botanicals or adding a hint of local honey to the sweetener. Others may play with the texture by incorporating nitrogen cavitation to create an even fluffier foam. These innovations showcase the versatility of the Ramos Gin Fizz while honoring its rich history and cultural significance.

As new generations of bartenders and mixologists continue to discover and fall in love with the Ramos Gin Fizz, it’s clear that this iconic cocktail will remain a beloved fixture in New Orleans’ cocktail culture for years to come. By preserving tradition while embracing innovation, the city ensures that the legacy of Henry C. Ramos and his legendary creation will endure, one frothy sip at a time.