The London Buck is a classic gin drink distinguished by its clear balance of dry London Dry Gin, fresh citrus notes, and lively carbonation. It’s light yet anything but boring – the perfect mix for warm days or as an elegant aperitif. The combination of acidity and fizz makes it particularly easy to drink without sacrificing complexity. A cocktail that delivers maximum enjoyment with minimal effort.
Here’s what you need for the London Buck
5 cl London Dry Gin
2 cl freshly squeezed lemon juice
12 cl soda water
0.5 cl sugar syrup (optional, to taste)
1 lemon slice (for garnish)
How to make it
The London Buck relies on the quality of the gin – choose a London Dry Gin with a pronounced juniper note and a subtle citrus undertone. The soda water should be fresh and high-quality, with plenty of fizz but no salty aftertaste. A small trick: Keep the soda water slightly chilled (not ice-cold) so it doesn’t foam up too much when poured. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can briefly stir the gin with the lemon juice in the glass before adding the soda water to enhance the aromas. Avoid vigorous stirring after adding the soda water – the carbonation should remain intact.
Variations
- Royal Buck — Replace the soda water with 12 cl champagne or dry sparkling wine for an elegant, bubbly twist. The bubbles of the sparkling wine perfectly complement the gin and give the drink a festive touch.
- Ginger Buck — Add 2 cl ginger syrup or 3 cl freshly pressed ginger juice and reduce the soda water to 10 cl. This gives the drink a spicy depth that’s especially appealing in autumn and winter.
- Elderflower Buck — Add 1 cl elderflower syrup to the glass before adding the soda water. The floral sweetness perfectly balances the dry juniper notes of the gin and makes the drink even more refreshing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice works well and gives the drink a slightly different acidity. However, lemon is the classic choice and pairs better with the juniper notes of London Dry Gin. If you use lime, reduce the amount slightly to 1.5 cl, as lime is more intense.
Why does the soda water foam up so much when I pour it into the glass?
This often happens if the soda water is too cold or the glass is over-chilled. Keep the soda water at around 8–10 °C and pour it slowly over the back of a bar spoon to preserve the carbonation.
Can I serve the London Buck without ice?
Technically yes, but the drink will lose its refreshing chill and the flavors won’t develop as well. If you don’t want to use ice, chill all ingredients in the fridge beforehand and serve the drink in a pre-chilled glass.
Which gin works best for the London Buck?
A classic London Dry Gin with a pronounced juniper note and a subtle citrus undertone is ideal. Avoid overly floral or sweet gins – they can overpower the freshness of the lemon juice and the sparkle of the soda water.
