Few cocktails capture the vibrant spirit of the UK like the London Calling Cocktail. A clever nod to the iconic punk anthem by The Clash, this drink fuses British heritage with contemporary mixology. Whether you’re sipping it on a rooftop in Shoreditch or crafting it at home for friends, the London Calling Cocktail is quickly becoming a favorite among London’s cocktail lovers.
Origin & Name Significance
The name London Calling Cocktail pays homage to the legendary track “London Calling” by The Clash, a song that represented rebellion, change, and British pride. Much like its namesake, this cocktail embraces boldness and creativity. Born from the thriving cocktail culture in London, this drink first gained traction in the early 2000s at trend-setting bars like Milk & Honey. Its name evolved into a playful, modern take: Slondon Calling, perhaps hinting at the “Sloe” or “Sling”-style spirits often used in variations.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need to create the classic London Calling Cocktail:
- 50ml London Dry Gin (Beefeater or Sipsmith recommended for authenticity)
- 15ml Fino Sherry (a dry, nutty Spanish fortified wine)
- 20ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 10ml sugar syrup (1:1 ratio of sugar to water)
- 2 dashes of orange bitters
- Grapefruit twist or lemon peel (for garnish)
Optional Premium Additions:
- 5ml elderflower liqueur for floral notes
- A dash of absinthe for a bold aromatic edge
Step-by-Step Recipe
Making the London Calling Cocktail is easier than it looks. Follow these steps to recreate this London favorite:
- Chill Your Glass: Place a coupe or Nick & Nora glass in the freezer.
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, fino sherry, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and bitters.
- Shake with Ice: Add ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
- Strain: Fine strain into the chilled glass to remove ice shards.
- Garnish: Express the oils of a grapefruit twist or lemon peel over the drink and drop it in.
Pro Tip: Use clear ice and high-quality spirits for best results. Always taste before serving to adjust sweetness or acidity.
Taste Profile & Pairings
The london Calling Cocktail delivers a crisp, refreshing profile with botanical depth from the gin, balanced by the dry nuttiness of fino sherry. The citrus cuts through for a zesty finish, while bitters add complexity.
Flavor Notes:
- Dry and citrusy
- Lightly floral
- Slightly bitter finish
Perfect Pairings:
- Smoked salmon canapés
- Goat cheese crostini
- Rooftop BBQs
- Punk-themed parties or indie music nights
Where to Try It in London
While the London Calling Cocktail is easy to make at home, some of London’s trendiest bars are known to serve their takes:
- Swift Soho – Known for its creative gin cocktails.
- The Gibson – A vintage speakeasy that often features sherry-based drinks.
- Nightjar – If you’re into jazz and premium cocktail craftsmanship.
(We’ll update this list with seasonal events or new bars featuring the drink.)
_(1).jpg)
Variations & Twists
Want to give your London Calling Cocktail a unique spin? Try these ideas:
- Summer Version: Add muddled cucumber and mint; serve over crushed ice in a highball.
- Winter Warm-Up: Replace lemon juice with spiced apple cider and serve warm.
- Berry Punk: Infuse gin with blackberries or sloe berries for extra depth.
- Non-Alcoholic Twist: Use a zero-proof gin, alcohol-free dry vermouth, and fresh lemon juice.
Closing Thoughts & Call to Action
Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just starting your home bar journey, the London Calling Cocktail is a must-try. It captures the bold essence of London while staying elegant and drinkable. Try the recipe, make it your own, and share your creations with us on social media. Or better yet, plan your next night at one of London’s top bars and order the real thing.