Albemarle Fizz – Classic Raspberry Gin Fizz Cocktail

The Albemarle Fizz gives the classic gin fizz formula a subtle raspberry accent. Gin and fresh lemon form the sharp, botanical base, while simple syrup provides just enough sweetness to balance the citrus. Soda water stretches the drink into a lively Collins-style serve, and raspberry syrup added at the end gives it a distinctive fruit finish.

A Fizz Documented in the Savoy

The Albemarle Fizz appears in Harry Craddock's 1930 Savoy Cocktail Book, which calls for gin, lemon, powdered sugar, soda water, and a teaspoon of raspberry syrup added at the end. Its earlier origin and the reason for the Albemarle name are not clearly documented, so claims tying the drink to a specific street, bar, or creator should be treated cautiously.

What You'll Need

Ingredients

• Gin: Provides the dry botanical backbone of the cocktail.
• Lemon Juice: Supplies the bright acidity that keeps the drink crisp.
• Simple Syrup: Balances the lemon without making the drink overly sweet.
• Raspberry Syrup: Adds a concentrated berry note and the Albemarle Fizz's distinctive finish.
• Carbonated Water: Lengthens the cocktail and provides its signature fizz.

Useful substitutions

• A traditional London Dry gin gives the drink a firm juniper profile, while a softer botanical gin makes a gentler variation.
• Fresh lime juice can replace lemon for a sharper variation, although it changes the classic flavor profile.
• Another quality raspberry syrup can be used, but adjust carefully if it is noticeably sweeter or more concentrated.
• Plain club soda can replace carbonated water.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Collins glass
• Bar spoon
• Ice

Raspberry Without Losing the Fizz

The raspberry syrup is deliberately restrained. Instead of turning the drink into a sweet berry cocktail, a small amount gives the dry gin, tart lemon, and sparkling water a fruity accent. Adding it after the soda also preserves one of the most distinctive details of the documented preparation.

Substitutions & Variations

• Use a citrus-forward gin to emphasize the lemon and make the drink especially bright.
• Swap lemon for lime for a tarter, less traditional variation.
• Add a few fresh raspberries as a garnish rather than increasing the syrup.
• Use a drier raspberry syrup if you want stronger berry aroma with less perceived sweetness.
• For a softer drink, add a little more soda water rather than reducing the gin.

Helpful Tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice because the citrus is central to the drink's balance.
• Chill the Collins glass before mixing to help the drink stay cold.
• Shake only the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Carbonated water should never go into the shaker.
• Use cold, freshly opened soda water for stronger carbonation.
• Add the raspberry syrup after the soda, following the documented classic sequence.
• Stir only gently after adding the syrup so you do not knock out the carbonation.
• Fresh raspberries or a lemon wheel make simple garnishes that match the drink naturally.
• For a batch, combine the gin and simple syrup ahead of time, then add fresh lemon, soda, and raspberry syrup when serving.