Southside

The Southside is a crisp, vibrant “New Era” classic composed of Gin, Fresh Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, and Fresh Mint Leaves. It is the definitive “Gin-based Mojito,” celebrated for its refreshing botanical heart, its elegant coupe presentation, and its status as the quintessential summer cocktail for the gin enthusiast.

Key Takeaways

• Alcoholic Base: London Dry Gin.
• Core Modifier: Fresh Mint (garden variety).
• Service: Shaken and served “up” (or as a Southside Fizz over soda).
• Glassware: Chilled Cocktail (Coupe) glass.

History: Prohibition, Chicago, and the 21 Club

The Southside’s origins are steeped in the colorful history of American Prohibition.

The Al Capone Connection

One popular legend attributes the drink to the South Side of Chicago, the territory of Al Capone’s gang. Gangsters in the South Side allegedly used mint and lime to mask the harsh, gasoline-like flavors of “bathtub gin.” Conversely, the North Side gang (Bugs Moran) drank their gin with ginger ale. The “Southside” was considered the superior, more refined version.

The 21 Club and East Coast Elegance

A more verified history places the drink at the 21 Club in New York City, where it was served as a signature house cocktail. This version solidified the drink’s status as a high-society classic, moving it away from the speakeasy and into the legendary Manhattan dining rooms.

Ingredient Analysis

London Dry Gin

A juniper-forward London Dry Gin (40-47% ABV) is essential. The gin’s pine and citrus botanicals work in perfect synergy with the aromatic mint. A more modern, floral gin (e.g., Hendrick’s) also works exceptionally well to emphasize the “garden” notes.

Mint: The Aromatic Freshness

The mint must be fresh and vibrant. Use “spearmint” for a clean, sweet aromatic profile. Unlike a Mojito, where the mint is muddled in a highball, the Southside shakes the mint with ice to extract the oils without pulverizing the leaves, which can lead to a “grassy” or bitter taste.

Preparation Mechanics

1. The Shake: Add the gin, lime juice, syrup, and mint leaves to a shaker with large ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 12 seconds. The force of the ice hitting the mint is sufficient to release the oils.
2. The Double-Strain: Use a Hawthorne strainer and a fine-mesh tea strainer. This is critical to ensure no small pieces of broken mint floating in the drink, maintaining a crystal-clear aesthetic.
3. The Glass: Serve in a bone-cold coupe.
4. Garnish: A single, slapped mint leaf floating on the surface for immediate aromatic impact upon first sip.

Tasting Profile

The Southside is a masterclass in refreshment. The entry is a cold, refreshing burst of lime and mint. This is immediately supported by the botanical “bite” of the gin. The finish is remarkably clean, dry, and zesty. It is a more sophisticated, “adult” alternative to a Gimlet or a Mojito, perfect for warm-weather afternoon drinking.