The Clover Leaf: A Fresh Take on Gin’s Golden Age

While many Prohibition-era cocktails pack a serious punch, the Clover Leaf offers a more delicate approach. This gin-based beauty, garnished with a mint sprig to complete its namesake appearance, proves that sometimes the most refreshing cocktails are also the most elegant.

A Touch of History

First appearing in print in Harry MacElhone’s 1919 “Harry’s ABC of Mixing Cocktails,” the Clover Leaf belongs to the family of “sours” that defined pre-Prohibition drinking. It’s essentially a Gin Sour elevated by fresh raspberry and mint, transforming a standard recipe into something truly special.

The Experience

In the glass, the Clover Leaf presents a lovely pale pink hue, topped with a signature white foam cap. The aroma hits first - fresh mint mingling with raspberry and citrus. On the palate, you’ll find bright gin botanicals dancing with tart lemon, sweet raspberry, and herbaceous mint notes, all carried on a silky smooth texture thanks to the egg white.

The Recipe

Here’s how to craft this springtime classic:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz London Dry gin
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• 3 fresh raspberries
• 1 egg white
• Fresh mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. Muddle raspberries in a shaker
2. Add gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white
3. Dry shake (without ice) for 10 seconds
4. Add ice and shake again vigorously for 12-15 seconds
5. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass
6. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig

Pro Tips

• Use fresh raspberries when in season - frozen work in a pinch but affect texture
• A dry shake is crucial for developing that signature foam
• Choose a classic London Dry gin to let the raspberry shine
• Double straining removes raspberry seeds and mint fragments
• The mint garnish should resemble a clover leaf - arrange it carefully

When to Serve

The Clover Leaf is perfect for:

• Spring and summer gatherings
• Garden parties
• Brunch service
• Mother’s Day celebrations

Technique Notes

The key to perfection lies in the egg white technique. For best results:

• Use fresh, cold eggs
• Dry shake first to emulsify
• Shake extra hard with ice to develop texture
• Serve immediately while foam is at its peak

Variations

While the classic recipe is hard to improve upon, some accepted variations include:

• The Clover Club (made without mint)
• Using raspberry syrup instead of fresh berries
• A vegan version using aquafaba instead of egg white

Remember, this cocktail is all about freshness and presentation. The mint garnish isn’t just decoration - it’s an integral part of the drink’s identity and aroma profile.