Singapore Sling Cocktail Drink

Singapore Sling

A shot of Gavin Wrigley looking to the camera in a dimly lit room
Written by Gavin Wrigley
Andrea
Tested by
Andrea Ottaiano
5 from 1 vote

This Singapore Sling recipe is your go-to cocktail if you want to shake things up. With a mix of unique ingredients, this drink is flavorful and simple to make.

Singapore Sling Recipe

Elevate your cocktail game with this Singapore Sling recipe! Packed with Gin, tropical juices, and a medley of liqueurs, this vibrant drink is a party in a glass.

Prep time:

1 minute

Mixing time:

2 minutes

Servings:

1

Calories:

300 kl

Ingredients

  • 1½ oz Gin
  • ½ oz Cherry Heering
  • ¼ oz Triple Sec or Cointreau
  • ¼ oz Benedictine
  • ½ oz fresh lime juice
  • 2 oz pineapple juice
  • 1 dash Angostura aromatic bitters
  • 1 barspoon grenadine
  • Ice cubes
  • Cherry and pineapple Slice, for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Highball Glass
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Shaker
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass with ice cubes.
  • Combine Ingredients: In the shaker, combine 1 dash Angostura aromatic bitters, 1 barspoon grenadine, ¼ oz Triple Sec or Cointreau, ¼ oz Benedictine, ½ oz Cherry Heering, ½ oz fresh lime juice, 1½ oz Gin, and 2 oz pineapple juice.
  • Shake: Ice up the cocktail shaker and shake for about 15-20 seconds
  • Pour: Strain the mixture into the highball glass over fresh ice cubes.
  • Garnish: Add a cherry and a slice of pineapple for garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Gin: Vodka can work as a neutral base if you're out of Gin. I've also used rum for a tropical twist.
  • Cherry Heering: I've used cherry liqueur or grenadine in a pinch, although the flavor profile will change.
  • Cointreau: Triple sec or another orange liqueur can stand in for Cointreau.
  • Benedictine: This is a unique herbal liqueur, but you can try using a splash of herbal tea with a bit of honey if you're desperate.
  • Angostura Bitters: Orange bitters or even a dash of lemon juice can work if you're out of Angostura.

Making a Pitcher of Singapore Sling:

  • Scale: To serve 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That's 12 oz of Gin, 4 oz of Cherry Heering, 2 oz of Cointreau, 2 oz of Benedictine, 4 oz of fresh lime juice, 8 bar spoon of grenadine, and 16 oz of pineapple juice.
  • Mix: Combine all the ingredients in a large pitcher and stir well.
  • Serve: Pour into ice-filled highball glasses, garnish, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Gin Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic gin substitute or even a mix of herbal teas for the botanicals.
  • Cherry Heering Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic cherry syrup.
  • Cointreau and Benedictine Substitute: Use orange and herbal extracts mixed with simple syrup.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps.

Making it Vegan:

  • Check Your Liqueurs: Some liqueurs may use animal products in their production. Make sure to use vegan-friendly versions.
  • Garnish: Use vegan-friendly cherries and ensure your pineapple slice is fresh, not canned with non-vegan preservatives.

Nutrition Facts

Calories
300
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
0.3
g
0
%
Saturated Fat
 
0.01
g
0
%
Sodium
 
10
mg
0
%
Carbohydrates
 
37
g
12
%
Fiber
 
0.2
g
1
%
Sugar
 
28
g
31
%
Potassium
 
107
mg
3
%
Protein
 
0.3
g
1
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.03
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
0.01
g
Vitamin A
 
10
IU
0
%
Vitamin C
 
10
mg
12
%
Calcium
 
11
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.2
mg
1
%

 

Singapore Sling Cocktail Drink

Singapore Sling Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
5 from 1 vote
Jump to Video
Elevate your cocktail game with this Singapore Sling recipe! Packed with Gin, tropical juices, and a medley of liqueurs, this vibrant drink is a party in a glass.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 2 minutes
Servings: 1
Calories: 300

Ingredients
 

  • 1½ oz Gin
  • ½ oz Cherry Heering
  • ¼ oz Triple Sec or Cointreau
  • ¼ oz Benedictine
  • ½ oz fresh lime juice
  • 2 oz pineapple juice
  • 1 dash Angostura aromatic bitters
  • 1 barspoon grenadine
  • Ice cubes
  • Cherry and pineapple Slice - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Highball Glass
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Shaker
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your highball glass with ice cubes.
  • Combine Ingredients: In the shaker, combine 1 dash Angostura aromatic bitters, 1 barspoon grenadine, ¼ oz Triple Sec or Cointreau, ¼ oz Benedictine, ½ oz Cherry Heering, ½ oz fresh lime juice, 1½ oz Gin, and 2 oz pineapple juice.
  • Shake: Ice up the cocktail shaker and shake for about 15-20 seconds
  • Pour: Strain the mixture into the highball glass over fresh ice cubes.
  • Garnish: Add a cherry and a slice of pineapple for garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Gin: Vodka can work as a neutral base if you're out of Gin. I've also used rum for a tropical twist.
  • Cherry Heering: I've used cherry liqueur or grenadine in a pinch, although the flavor profile will change.
  • Cointreau: Triple sec or another orange liqueur can stand in for Cointreau.
  • Benedictine: This is a unique herbal liqueur, but you can try using a splash of herbal tea with a bit of honey if you're desperate.
  • Angostura Bitters: Orange bitters or even a dash of lemon juice can work if you're out of Angostura.

Making a Pitcher of Singapore Sling:

  • Scale: To serve 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That's 12 oz of Gin, 4 oz of Cherry Heering, 2 oz of Cointreau, 2 oz of Benedictine, 4 oz of fresh lime juice, 8 bar spoon of grenadine, and 16 oz of pineapple juice.
  • Mix: Combine all the ingredients in a large pitcher and stir well.
  • Serve: Pour into ice-filled highball glasses, garnish, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Gin Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic gin substitute or even a mix of herbal teas for the botanicals.
  • Cherry Heering Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic cherry syrup.
  • Cointreau and Benedictine Substitute: Use orange and herbal extracts mixed with simple syrup.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use these non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps.

Making it Vegan:

  • Check Your Liqueurs: Some liqueurs may use animal products in their production. Make sure to use vegan-friendly versions.
  • Garnish: Use vegan-friendly cherries and ensure your pineapple slice is fresh, not canned with non-vegan preservatives.

 

What is a Singapore Sling?

A Singapore Sling is a gin-based cocktail that combines a variety of liqueurs and fruit juices. Originating from Singapore, this drink has gained international fame for its unique and complex flavor. The drink is often garnished with a cherry and a slice of pineapple, adding a tropical touch to its presentation. It is categorized among the “Contemporary Classics” by the IBA(International Bartender Association).

A side shot of a Singapore Sling cocktail on a brown wood plate placed on a beige table with a shaker, a bar spoon and some pineapple slices on the background

What is a Singapore Sling made of – The ingredients

Prepare to make your Singapore Sling by gathering these ingredients:

  • Gin: Provides the botanical base of the cocktail.
  • Cherry Heering: Adds a rich cherry flavor.
  • Cointreau: Infuses a hint of orange sweetness.
  • Benedictine: Contributes herbal complexity.
  • Fresh Lime Juice: Offers a tangy kick.
  • Pineapple Juice: Balances the drink with tropical sweetness.
  • Angostura Bitters: Gives a subtle spiced undertone.
  • Grenadine: delivers a fruity sweetness.
  • Ice Cubes: Chills the cocktail.
  • Cherry and Pineapple Slice: Serve as a garnish, enhancing the visual appeal and adding a fruity touch.

Gin, Cherry Heering, Cointreau, Benedictine, Lime juice, Pineapple juice and Angostura Bitters laid out on a white bar table

How do you make a Singapore Sling?

Participate in our simple instructions to make your own Singapore Sling:

1
<p>Start by filling your highball glass with ice cubes to prepare it for the cocktail.</p>

Start by filling your highball glass with ice cubes to prepare it for the cocktail.

2
<p>Take the shaker and add a dash of Angostura aromatic bitters.</p>

Take the shaker and add a dash of Angostura aromatic bitters.

3
<p>Pour the grenadine into the shaker.</p>

Pour the grenadine into the shaker.

4
<p>Add the Triple Sec to the shaker.</p>

Add the Triple Sec to the shaker.

5
<p>Add Benedictine to the shaker.</p>

Add Benedictine to the shaker.

6
<p>Add Cherry Heering to the mix.</p>

Add Cherry Heering to the mix.

7
<p>Pour fresh lime juice into the shaker.</p>

Pour fresh lime juice into the shaker.

8
<p>Pour Gin into the shaker.</p>

Pour Gin into the shaker.

9
<p>And, finally, add the pineapple juice to the mix.</p>

And, finally, add the pineapple juice to the mix.

10
<p>Now, fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes.</p>

Now, fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes.

11
<p>Shake the mixture well to blend all the ingredients.</p>

Shake the mixture well to blend all the ingredients.

12
<p>Replace the ice in your highball glass and strain the shaken mixture into it.</p>

Replace the ice in your highball glass and strain the shaken mixture into it.

13
<p>Garnish the drink by adding a cherry and a slice of pineapple.</p>

Garnish the drink by adding a cherry and a slice of pineapple.

14
<p>Enjoy your Singapore Sling cocktail!</p>

Enjoy your Singapore Sling cocktail!

Singapore Sling Mocktail with Cherry Heering Substitute

If you’re skipping the booze but still want to enjoy a Singapore Sling, a virgin version is just as flavorful. Replace the Gin with tonic water to maintain some bitterness and fizz. For the Cherry Heering, cherry syrup works well, and you can use non-alcoholic triple sec syrup instead of Cointreau. Pineapple and lime juice stay the same, as they’re already non-alcoholic. Add a dash of Angostura bitters if you like; they’re alcohol-based but used in such small quantities that they’re generally considered acceptable in mocktails. Mix all the ingredients, shake it well, and pour it over ice. You’ll end up with a virgin version close in flavor and appearance to the classic.

Singapore Sling without Benedictine

A Singapore Sling without Benedictine lacks the herbal complexity that this liqueur brings to the classic cocktail. Benedictine contributes a blend of spices and botanicals, adding depth and nuance to the drink. While you can still enjoy the fruity and tangy elements from ingredients like pineapple juice and cherry liqueur, omitting Benedictine means missing out on a layer of flavor that makes the cocktail distinctive. In short, you’ll have a simpler, less complex drink that only partially captures the essence of the original version.

A Singapore Sling cocktail, shot from above, on a brown wood plate with pineapple slices on the side

More Variations on the Celebrated Gin Cocktail

Want to spice up your sling game? We recommend one of these variations:

  • Gin Sling: Simplicity and elegance define this mix, where gin meets lemon juice, sugar syrup, and soda water. The lemon juice adds a refreshing citrus zing that complements the gin’s botanicals beautifully. I find the crisp and invigorating taste of the Gin Sling ideal for hot summer days.
  • Straits Sling: A complex flavor profile marks this concoction, blending gin, lemon juice, cherry brandy, and Benedictine, among other ingredients. Sweet and herbal notes from the cherry brandy and Benedictine create a unique taste. The depth of flavors in the Straits Sling draws me in; it’s sophisticated and intriguing, perfect for a relaxed evening.
  • Shanghai Sling: Gin, cherry brandy, Cointreau, pineapple juice, lime juice, grenadine, and bitters come together for a delightful twist. The addition of pineapple juice and Cointreau introduces a tropical, slightly sweet character. The fruity and vibrant profile of the Shanghai Sling makes it a standout for those who enjoy playful and exotic flavors.

History and Origins of the Singapore Sling

The Singapore Sling traces its roots back to the early 20th century at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Ngiam Tong Boon, a bartender at the hotel’s Long Bar, is credited with creating this iconic beverage. The cocktail quickly gained popularity among the hotel’s patrons, especially among British colonials and travelers. Initially, people considered it a socially acceptable drink for women when it was less common for women to consume alcohol in public.

A Singapore Sling cocktail and a brown straw on a wood plate with pineapple slices and a shaker on the background

Singapore Sling and Formula 1

The Singapore Sling and Formula 1 share more than just a city in their names; they’re icons in their respective fields. The Singapore Sling, born at the Raffles Hotel, is as much a part of the city’s identity as the high-speed thrills of the Singapore Grand Prix. During the F1 season, bars around the Marina Bay Street Circuit often feature special editions of this classic cocktail, making it a go-to drink for fans and racers alike. It’s not uncommon to see F1 enthusiasts sipping on this vibrant, fruity cocktail while discussing the intricacies of the race. 

Is Singapore Sling a ladies’ drink?

The notion that the Singapore Sling is a “ladies’ drink” is outdated and rooted in stereotypes. Sure, its fruity flavors and vibrant red hue might have once categorized it as a cocktail more geared toward women, especially during its early years at the Raffles Hotel. But times have changed. Today, the Singapore Sling is enjoyed by people of all genders who appreciate its complex blend of Gin, pineapple juice, and various liqueurs.

 

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FAQ

How many calories are in a Singapore Sling?
A typical Singapore Sling contains around 230-250 calories.
How strong is a Singapore Sling in terms of ABV and proof?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) usually ranges from 20-30%, around 40-60 proof.
What type of alcohol is used in a Singapore Sling?
Gin serves as the primary alcohol in a Singapore Sling.
In what type of glass is a Singapore Sling served?
A Singapore Sling is traditionally served in a highball glass.
What does a Singapore Sling taste like?
The Singapore Sling offers a complex flavor profile that's fruity, herbal, and slightly tangy.
What is the ratio of ingredients in a Singapore Sling?
The classic ratio is 1½ oz of Gin, ½ oz of Cherry Heering, ¼ oz each of Cointreau and Benedictine, ½ oz of lime juice, and 2 oz of pineapple juice, with a touch of grenadine and angostura bitters.
How is the Singapore Sling served in terms of ice and presentation?
It's usually served over ice and garnished with a cherry and a slice of pineapple.

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