If you’re a cocktail enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of the Singapore Sling. This iconic drink has been around for over a century and has become a staple in bars all around the world. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Singapore Sling, exploring its origins and evolution over time.
The Birth of the Singapore Sling
The Singapore Sling was first created by Ngiam Tong Boon, a bartender at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore, in the early 1900s. The cocktail was originally called the “Straits Sling” and was created as a refreshing drink for the hotel’s guests. At the time, the hotel was a popular destination for British colonials and travelers, and the cocktail quickly became a hit.
The Original Recipe
The original recipe for the Singapore Sling is a bit of a mystery. The recipe was never written down, and over time, different bartenders at the Raffles Hotel have created their own variations of the cocktail. However, based on historical records, we know that the original recipe included gin, cherry brandy, Benedictine, and pineapple juice, among other ingredients.
The Golden Age of the Singapore Sling
During the 1920s and 1930s, the Singapore Sling enjoyed a period of great popularity. The cocktail was featured in numerous cocktail books and was a favorite among Hollywood celebrities. In fact, the Singapore Sling even made an appearance in the 1934 film “The Thin Man.
The Decline and Resurgence of the Singapore Sling
By the 1950s and 1960s, the popularity of the Singapore Sling had waned. The cocktail had become associated with old-fashioned bars and was seen as outdated. However, in the 1980s, the Raffles Hotel underwent a major renovation, and the Singapore Sling was given a new lease on life. The hotel began serving the cocktail again, and it quickly regained its status as an iconic drink.
The Modern Singapore Sling
Today, the Singapore Sling is as popular as ever, and it has undergone many variations and adaptations over the years. Some bartenders have added their own twists to the recipe, while others have created entirely new cocktails inspired by the Singapore Sling. However, the original recipe remains a classic and is still enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
How to Make a Singapore Sling
If you want to try making a Singapore Sling for yourself, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
| Ingredients | Amount |
| Gin | 1 1/2 oz |
| Cherry brandy | 1/2 oz |
| Cointreau | 1/4 oz |
| Benedictine | 1/4 oz |
| Pineapple juice | 4 oz |
| Lime juice | 1/2 oz |
| Grenadine | 1/3 oz |
| Angostura bitters | 1 dash |
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a tall glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a cherry and a slice of pineapple.
Conclusion
The Singapore Sling is a true classic in the world of cocktails. From its humble origins in Singapore to its status as a global icon, this drink has a rich and fascinating history. Whether you’re sipping on a traditional Singapore Sling or trying out a modern variation, this cocktail is sure to delight your taste buds.
FAQs
- Is the Singapore Sling a sweet or sour drink?
- The Singapore Sling is a sweet and fruity drink, with a balance of tart and sweet flavors.
- Can I substitute any of the ingredients in a Singapore Sling?
- While some variations of the Singapore Sling may call for different ingredients, the classic recipe includes gin, cherry brandy, Cointreau, Benedictine, pineapple juice, lime juice, grenadine, and Angostura bitters. You can experiment with different ratios to suit your taste, but changing the ingredients too much may alter the overall flavor of the cocktail.
- Is the Singapore Sling a strong drink?
- The strength of the Singapore Sling will depend on the amount of alcohol you use in the recipe. However, since the cocktail includes several sweet and fruity ingredients, it can be deceptively easy to drink.
- Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Singapore Sling?
- Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of the Singapore Sling by simply omitting the alcohol and increasing the amount of juice and grenadine. You can also add soda water or ginger ale for a bit of fizz.
- Where can I try a Singapore Sling?
- The Singapore Sling can be found in bars all around the world, but if you want to try an authentic version, head to the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The hotel’s Long Bar is famous for serving up the classic cocktail in a relaxed and historic setting.
