The Florida Sling is an underrated classic that combines the freshness of citrus notes with the depth of Gin and a hint of herbs. Originally intended as a variation of the Singapore Sling, it has developed its own character through the addition of grapefruit juice and a touch of bitterness. Perfect for warm evenings when you want something light yet complex—without giving up alcohol. The balance between sweetness, acidity, and bitterness makes it a drink that not only refreshes but also invites contemplation.
And this is what you need for the Florida Sling
5 cl Gin (London Dry, 40–45% vol.)
3 cl freshly squeezed grapefruit juice (pink or white)
2 cl freshly squeezed lemon juice
1.5 cl sugar syrup (1:1)
1 cl Cherry Heering (or another cherry liqueur)
1 dash Angostura Bitter
Soda water (to top up)
Garnish: Lemon zest and a cocktail cherry
What matters
The trick lies in the grapefruit juice: not too ripe, otherwise the drink becomes too sweet, but also not too tart. A mix of pink and white grapefruit is ideal—the pink adds sweetness, the white brings the necessary acidity. The Cherry Heering gives the drink a deep, almost jam-like note that shouldn’t be replaced with cheap cherry syrup. If you don’t have Heering, use a high-quality cherry liqueur, but please not grenadine—that would be sacrilege. Add the soda water only at the end, otherwise the drink will lose its structure. And: the lemon zest is not just decoration—it carries aroma, so don’t skip it.
Variations
- Florida Sling with Rum — Replace the Gin with 5 cl white rum (e.g., Cuban style) and reduce the sugar syrup to 1 cl. The drink becomes softer, fruitier, and loses some of its herbal Gin note. Works well if you prefer something less complex.
- Dry Florida Sling — Omit the Cherry Heering and replace it with 0.5 cl maraschino liqueur. The drink becomes drier but no less aromatic. Ideal for Gin lovers who prefer it herbaceous.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use orange juice instead of grapefruit juice?
Theoretically yes, but then it’s no longer called a Florida Sling. Grapefruit juice is crucial for the balance—orange juice makes it too sweet and loses the typical tart-sour note. If you prefer it fruitier, try a mix of grapefruit and orange (3:1).
Why do I have to shake the drink instead of stirring it?
Because citrus and fruit juices only combine properly with other ingredients through shaking. Stirring wouldn’t distribute the acid evenly, and the drink would taste flat. Shaking ensures the right emulsion and a creamy texture.
Can I make the drink without alcohol?
Yes, but then it’s no longer a Sling. Replace the Gin with an alcohol-free Gin substitute (e.g., Seedlip) and the Cherry Heering with alcohol-free cherry syrup. The taste will be similar, but less complex.
