Clover Club Cocktail: History, Recipe, and Modern Twists

The Clover Club cocktail dates back to the late 19th century. It originated at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel in Philadelphia, home to the Clover Club, a gentlemen’s club for prominent members of society. The initial recipe called for gin, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and egg white. Over time, the drink’s formulation evolved, with various versions emerging. The cocktail’s distinctive pink color and frothy texture made it unique. As bartending techniques improved, so did the consistency and flavor profile of the Clover Club.

Popularity in the Pre-Prohibition Era

In the pre-Prohibition era, the Clover Club gained widespread popularity. Its appeal extended beyond Philadelphia, reaching major cities like New York and Chicago. During this period, cocktails with gin bases were particularly favored. The Clover Club offered a sophisticated yet accessible option, known for its balanced sweetness and tartness. Men and women alike enjoyed this cocktail in upscale bars and private clubs, establishing it as a staple in early 20th-century mixology.

Key Ingredients of a Clover Club

The Role of Raspberry in the Cocktail

Raspberry syrup gives the Clover Club its distinctive pink hue and a unique flavor profile that balances sweetness and tartness. Fresh or preserved raspberries are used to make the syrup, enhancing the cocktail’s complexity. Raspberries provide a refreshing, fruity element, creating a contrast with the other ingredients. While some variations employ grenadine, traditionalists insist on authentic raspberry syrup for an accurate representation of the drink.

Why Gin is Essential

Gin forms the backbone of the Clover Club cocktail, offering a clear, herbal character that complements the sweetness of the raspberry syrup and the acidity of the lemon juice. London Dry gin works particularly well due to its juniper-forward profile, which blends seamlessly with the other flavors. Without gin, the Clover Club would lack its crisp, botanical undertones, which balance out the richer elements and maintain the drink’s sophisticated nature.

How to Make the Perfect Clover Club

Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions

To create the perfect Clover Club, gather the essential ingredients: gin, raspberry syrup, lemon juice, and an egg white. Have a cocktail shaker, fine strainer, and coupe glass ready.

1. Combine Ingredients: Add 2 oz of gin, 1/2 oz of raspberry syrup, 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice, and one egg white to the cocktail shaker.
2. Dry Shake: Shake the ingredients without ice for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Add Ice and Shake Again: Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for another 15-20 seconds or until the mixture is well-chilled.
4. Strain and Serve: Double strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass using a fine strainer to catch any ice shards and egg white particulates, ensuring a smooth texture.
5. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with a few fresh raspberries or a lemon twist for an elegant finish.

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemon juice and a fresh egg white to ensure the best froth and flavor.
2. Dry Shake First: A dry shake emulsifies the egg white before adding ice, which enhances frothiness.
3. Shake Vigorously: When shaking with ice, do so with vigor to create a dense, stable foam.
4. Proper Straining: Double strain the cocktail to remove any ice or egg white bits, contributing to a smoother texture.

Variations of the Clover Club Cocktail

Modern Twists on the Classic Recipe

Innovative bartenders have introduced modern twists to the classic Clover Club cocktail. By swapping out gin for other spirits, you create unique flavor profiles. Try using vodka for a smoother taste, or bourbon for a richer, more robust experience.

Experiment with different types of raspberry or berry syrups to add complexity. While the original recipe calls for raspberry syrup, substituting with blackberry or strawberry syrup provides varied fruity notes. Adjust the sweetness by using simple syrup in combination.

Incorporate herbs or spices for an added depth of flavor. Mint leaves, lavender, or even a hint of chili can elevate the drink. For instance, muddling fresh mint in the shaker gives the cocktail a refreshing twist.

Non-Alcoholic Versions

Craft non-alcoholic versions of the Clover Club to enjoy the same flavors without alcohol. Replace gin with non-alcoholic gin alternatives, which mimic the herbal notes of traditional gin.

Use raspberry syrup, lemon juice, and egg white as in the classic recipe. These ingredients provide the signature frothy texture and flavor balance. To add an extra layer of taste, consider using flavored sodas, such as lemon soda, instead of plain soda water.

Adapt the presentation for a refined touch. Use elegant glassware and garnish with fresh raspberries or lemon twists to mirror the classic cocktail’s sophisticated look.

Where to Find the Best Clover Club

Famous Bars and Their Signature Serves

Several famous bars serve exceptional Clover Club cocktails with their own unique twists.

• Pegu Club, New York City: Known for its classic cocktails, Pegu Club serves a Clover Club with artisanal raspberry syrup and premium gin.
• The Aviary, Chicago: The Aviary transforms the Clover Club using molecular gastronomy techniques, adding an avant-garde touch to this traditional drink.
• The Clover Club, Brooklyn: As the name suggests, this bar excels in its preparation, offering a perfectly balanced Clover Club with fresh ingredients.
• The Varnish, Los Angeles: The Varnish serves a sophisticated version using house-made raspberry syrup and small-batch gin for a refined taste.
• American Bar, London: This renowned European bar offers a Clover Club with a subtle twist—adding a hint of rosemary for an aromatic finish.

Visiting these bars guarantees an excellent experience with a well-crafted Clover Club, showcasing the drink’s versatility and enduring charm.

Conclusion

The Clover Club cocktail remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its unique blend of flavors and elegant presentation. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a home bartender, crafting this drink offers a delightful experience that bridges history and modern innovation. Experiment with different variations to find your perfect twist, and enjoy the sophistication and charm that the Clover Club brings to any gathering.