Gin was the drink of choice for the thirsty Prohibition-era customer, so it is not surprising that the South Side cocktail was made famous by New York City’s elegant speakeasy, Jack & Charlie’s, now known as ‘21’. Since Shinnecock was one of the “ports of call” for Bill McCoy and his fellow “rummies”, there is no telling how much South Side gin came ashore there from 1921 until Repeal in 1933. McCoy gained a place in history because of the high quality of his boot-legged booze, known as “The Real McCoy.” The recipe below is from famed bartender Harry Craddock, author of The Savoy Cocktail Book, first published in 1930. At Manhattan’s Stork Club, it was known as South Side Fizz. By any name, it makes a refreshing treat after 18 holes at Shinnecock.
juice of 1 lemon
1 T powdered sugar
2 sprigs fresh mint
1 oz. dry gin
Shake well and strain into medium size glass.
Add dash of siphon soda water. Use mint as garnish.