The Racquet Club is a stirred, dry cocktail that combines London Dry Gin and dry vermouth in perfect balance. The addition of orange bitters lends a subtle fruitiness that enhances the gin without overpowering it. A drink for purists, offering maximum elegance with minimal effort. Ideal before a meal or as an accompaniment to light appetizers.
Here’s what you need for the Racquet Club
4 cl London Dry Gin
4 cl dry vermouth (Dry Vermouth)
2 dashes orange bitters
Key points
The Racquet Club relies on the quality of the gin and vermouth – it’s worth investing in good products. The stirring technique is crucial: not too fast to prevent excessive ice melt, but also not too slow to ensure adequate chilling. A trick is to briefly rinse the mixing glass with cold water before filling, then shake it dry – this cools the walls and prevents the ice from melting too quickly. Serve the drink in a pre-chilled glass to maintain its temperature.
Variations
- Racquet Club with citrus note — Replace the orange bitters with 1 dash lemon bitters and add 1 cl lemon zest, which you express over the glass before serving.
- Racquet Club with herbal accent — Add 1 cl absinthe or a splash of herbal liqueur (e.g., Chartreuse) to give the drink a more complex spice profile.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the Racquet Club with other types of bitters?
Yes, but orange bitters are the classic choice. Alternatively, you can experiment with grapefruit or lemon bitters to achieve a different fruitiness. Make sure the bitters don’t dominate – 1–2 dashes are sufficient.
Why is the drink stirred rather than shaken?
Stirred cocktails like the Racquet Club contain no cloudy ingredients (e.g., juices or egg whites) that would need emulsifying through shaking. Stirring gently cools the drink and preserves its clear, elegant texture. Shaking would introduce too much air and alter the structure.
Can I replace the vermouth with another wine?
No, dry vermouth is essential to the recipe. It contains herbs and spices that give the drink its characteristic flavor. A simple white wine would not achieve the same taste.
