Edith Day Gin Sour – A Grapefruit-Kissed Classic
A bright, frothy take on the gin sour, the Edith Day Cocktail blends gin, grapefruit juice, and simple syrup for crisp citrus flavor with a silky egg-white crown. This Roaring-Twenties classic still charms modern palates with its balance of tart and botanical notes.
The Spirit of the Edith Day Gin Sour
Named after Broadway star Edith Day, this 1920s-era cocktail captures Jazz-Age sparkle in a coupe. Its smooth foam, grapefruit tang, and gentle sweetness make it a timeless refresher that feels both nostalgic and new.
Background
The drink appeared during the post-Prohibition gin boom, when bartenders added egg white to citrus cocktails for texture and visual flair. The Edith Day became a staple of elegant hotel bars, known for its soft pink hue and refined presentation.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Gin – botanical base that anchors the drink
- Grapefruit juice – adds zesty brightness
- Simple syrup – smooth sweetness for balance
- Egg white – gives the silky, foamy head
Equipment Shaker, strainer, coupe or flute glass.
Why You’ll Love It
Elegant yet easy, this cocktail pairs gin’s herbs with refreshing citrus in a perfectly shaken froth. It’s equally suited to brunch, garden parties, or a classy nightcap.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap gin for vodka for a lighter base.
- Use aquafaba instead of egg white for a vegan version.
- Try lime juice for a tarter profile or honey syrup for a floral sweetness.
Helpful Tips
- Always dry shake first for stable foam.
- Express a grapefruit peel over the top for aroma.
- Chill your glass—this cocktail shines ice-cold.
Edith Day Cocktail Recipe
Type of Glass
Champagne Flute
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 1
- 1 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
Directions
- Add gin, grapefruit juice, simple syrup, and egg white to a shaker without ice. Dry shake vigorously for 10 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice and shake again until well chilled and frothy.
- Fine strain into a chilled champagne flute or coupe (no ice).
- Garnish with a twist of grapefruit peel.
The Edith Day Gin Sour proves that simple ingredients and good technique never go out of style—sip it whenever you need a touch of vintage glamour.
