The Cat’s Eye is an underrated gin cocktail that blends dry elegance with a surprising fruity note. The London Dry Gin provides the structure, while cherry liqueur and Triple Sec deliver an almost velvety sweetness—without being cloying. The soda water makes the drink dance, and the lemon cuts through like a sharp eye. Perfect for gin lovers who aren’t in the mood for a Martini.
Here’s what you’ll need for the Cat’s Eye
4 cl London Dry Gin
2 cl dry vermouth (Dry Vermouth)
2 cl cherry liqueur
1 cl Triple Sec
1 cl lemon juice
2 cl soda water
Garnish: 1 thin lemon slice
Key to success
The cherry liqueur is the secret star: use a high-quality, clear distilled spirit without added sugar, or the drink will taste like maraschino cherries instead of bitter morello cherries. Timing is key—the soda water should only be added after shaking, so the fizz doesn’t dissipate. For an even drier version, reduce the Triple Sec to 0.5 cl and balance it with a splash of lemon. Chill the glass with ice water before pouring to prevent the drink from warming up too quickly.
Variations
- Black Cat’s Eye — Replace the London Dry Gin with a Navy Strength Gin (57 % vol.) and add 0.5 cl absinthe. The drink becomes more robust with a slightly smoky note. Garnish: a black olive instead of lemon.
- Cat’s Whisker — Swap the gin for 4 cl bourbon whiskey and the dry vermouth for 2 cl sweet vermouth. Keep the cherry liqueur but replace the Triple Sec with 0.5 cl maraschino liqueur. Garnish: a cocktail cherry.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use cherry liqueur instead of cherry brandy?
No. Cherry liqueur is sweetened and would completely alter the flavor profile—the drink would become cloyingly sweet instead of tart and fruity. If cherry brandy isn’t available, try 1 cl plum brandy or omit it entirely and increase the gin to 5 cl.
Why does my Cat’s Eye taste watery?
Either the ice was too warm, or you shook the drink for too long. Use fresh, large ice cubes and shake only until the shaker is frosted on the outside. Add the soda water only at the very end—if it’s added too early to the shaker, it will lose its effervescence.
What’s the best glass to serve it in?
A coupe is ideal because it concentrates the aromas and maintains the temperature. Alternatively, a Nick & Nora glass works well. A tumbler would be too large and would cause the drink to warm up too quickly.
