The Clover Club is a classic Gin Sour, given a velvety texture and fruity depth by grenadine and egg white. Here it is elevated with a touch of elegance: not just through the glass, but through the way the egg white is handled. No dry froth, but a silken veil that settles over the acidity. Perfect for moments when you want more than just a drink – something that tastes and feels like a little ritual.
And here’s what you need for the Grand Royal Clover Club
4 cl London Dry Gin
2 cl lemon juice
2 cl grenadine
1 egg white (fresh, room temperature)
ice cubes
What matters most
The egg white is the key, but not everyone does it right. Many simply shake it with the other ingredients – but then the foam often stays thin and crumbly. If you shake it alone first, you unfold the proteins, and the foam becomes denser and creamier. Another trick: use grenadine with a high fruit content, not the cheap sugar version. The acidity of the pomegranate gives the drink a natural fruity depth that pairs beautifully with the gin. And: the glass must be ice-cold – otherwise the foam melts too quickly.
Variations
- Clover Club with raspberry syrup — Replace the grenadine with 2 cl raspberry syrup. The drink becomes sweeter with a subtle berry note. Make sure the syrup isn’t too thick – otherwise the foam becomes too heavy.
- Royal Clover Club with Champagne — After straining, top up the cocktail glass with 3 cl chilled Champagne. The drink becomes sparkling and acquires an elegant touch – perfect for special occasions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I leave out the egg white?
Yes, but the drink loses its velvety texture. Without egg white, it becomes thinner and more acidic. If you don’t want to use egg, replace it with 1 cl egg white substitute (e.g., aquafaba) – the result is similar, but not quite as creamy.
Why does the glass need to be chilled?
A warm glass makes the foam melt faster. If you don’t have a chilled glass on hand, rinse it briefly with ice water and dry it – that’s enough for the effect.
Can I replace lemon juice with lime juice?
Yes, but the flavor changes. Lime juice is sharper and less aromatic than lemon juice – the drink then becomes a bit more tart and less rounded. Give it a try, but keep the same quantity.
