The Pineapple Fizz brings tropical lightness to the long drink: juicy pineapple meets spicy Gin and is brightened up with fizzy soda. No sweet fruit cocktail, but a balanced drink that impresses with the acidity of the pineapple and the bitterness of the Gin. Perfect for warm days when you want something with bite and refreshment at the same time – without giving up alcohol.
And here’s what you need for the Pineapple Fizz
5 cl Gin (London Dry, 40–45 % vol.)
8 cl freshly squeezed pineapple juice (not from a can, otherwise it tastes metallic)
2 cl fresh lemon juice (not from a bottle)
1 cl sugar syrup (1:1 ratio, 0.5 cl is enough for ripe pineapple)
6 cl soda water (well chilled, not flat)
1 dash of Angostura (optional, for depth)
This is what matters
The trick is in the pineapple juice: it must be freshly squeezed, but not too ripe – otherwise the sweetness dominates and the drink becomes flat. A slightly green pineapple with acidity is ideal. Those who prefer it even fresher can briefly season the juice with a pinch of salt to enhance the fruit aromas. The salt neutralises bitter substances and rounds off the acidity. Add the soda only at the very end, otherwise the carbonation will fizzle out and the drink will taste flat.
Variations
- Virgin Pineapple Fizz — leave out the Gin, instead add 2 cl ginger syrup or 1 cl lemongrass syrup. Top up with more soda to maintain the fizz.
- Spicy Pineapple Fizz — lightly press 1 slice of fresh ginger (approx. 0.5 cm) with the pineapple juice in the shaker, then strain. Or add 2–3 drops of chilli tincture to the finished glass.
- Pineapple Rum Fizz — replace the Gin with white Rum and add an additional 0.5 cl lime juice. Goes better with ripe pineapple.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use canned pineapple juice?
Theoretically yes, but the flavour suffers. Canned juice often contains preservatives and tastes metallic. If you’re in a hurry, use fresh juice from the chilled section – but make sure it’s not pre-sweetened.
Why does my Pineapple Fizz taste watery?
Either the ice wasn’t cold enough (always use ice cubes straight from the freezer, not from an ice dispenser) or the soda was added too early. Always mix the other ingredients in the glass first, then slowly top up with soda.
Can I prepare the drink in advance?
You can store the ingredients (without soda) in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Add the soda just before serving, otherwise the drink will lose its fizz.
Which glass is ideal?
A slender Highball glass (250–300 ml) is perfect. Too wide glasses let the soda escape too quickly, while too small glasses won’t hold enough ice.
