Alabama Fizz Cocktail – Classic Gin Fizz with Southern Charm
When Southern tradition meets sparkling refreshment. The Alabama Fizz blends gin, lemon, and soda for a bright, botanical twist on the classic Gin Fizz – easy to make, perfectly balanced, and endlessly refreshing.
A Sparkling Southern Classic
The Alabama Fizz captures Southern ease in a glass – a crisp mix of gin, citrus, and fizz that’s perfect for summer afternoons or elegant evenings. With its balanced sweetness and botanical depth, this modern Gin Fizz variation proves that simplicity never goes out of style.
Background
Rooted in early 20th-century American mixology, the Alabama Fizz followed the rise of the Fizz family – light, sparkling cocktails made famous in New Orleans and beyond. Its revival today celebrates gin’s botanical profile and the clean effervescence that defines true Southern hospitality.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Gin – the crisp, botanical base that gives structure.
- Simple syrup – rounds out the citrus with smooth sweetness.
- Lemon juice – adds brightness and balance.
- Carbonated water – the sparkle that lightens every sip.
- Mint – fresh aromatic garnish for a polished finish.
Equipment Highball glass, cocktail shaker, strainer, bar spoon, ice.
Why It Works
The Alabama Fizz shines because of its balance – not too sweet, not too tart. Gin’s botanicals harmonize with lemon’s acidity, while bubbles lift every flavor. It’s approachable, sessionable, and looks as good as it tastes.
Substitutions & Variations
- Vodka Fizz: Swap gin for vodka for a neutral profile.
- Herbal Fizz: Add a rosemary sprig or basil leaves to the shaker.
- Citrus Swap: Try grapefruit or lime juice for seasonal spins.
Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
- Chill soda water before topping to keep maximum fizz.
- Garnish lightly – too much mint overwhelms aroma.
- Works well as a batch cocktail; scale up and top with soda just before serving.
Alabama Fizz Recipe
Type of Glass
Highball Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 3/4
Directions
- Shake gin, simple syrup, and lemon juice well with ice.
- Strain into a highball glass over fresh ice.
- Top with 3–4 oz carbonated water and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with fresh mint sprigs.
A light, sparkling reminder that classics never fade – just fizz anew.
