London Calling Recipe

The London Calling is a sophisticated twist on the classic Manhattan that replaces whiskey with London dry gin. Created by acclaimed bartender Audrey Forbes in 2014, this cocktail bridges the gap between traditional spirit-forward drinks and the bright, botanical character of gin.

What results is a remarkably balanced drink that maintains the structure and sophistication of its predecessor while introducing floral, citrus, and herbal dimensions that make it uniquely compelling.

The Perfect London Calling

This cocktail has earned its place among the modern classics, appearing on menus from London to New York to Tokyo. It's particularly beloved by those who enjoy the depth of a Manhattan but prefer gin's aromatic complexity.

What Makes It Special

The London Calling demonstrates how swapping a single ingredient can transform a classic. The botanicals in gin—typically juniper, citrus peel, and various herbs—replace whiskey's oak and vanilla notes, creating a completely different drinking experience while maintaining the Manhattan template.

Flavor Profile

• Initial Impact: Bright citrus and juniper
• Mid-Palate: Floral complexity with subtle bitterness
• Finish: Clean, dry finish with lingering botanical notes

Ingredient Breakdown

London Dry Gin should be quality but not overly botanical. Look for gins with prominent citrus notes that can stand up to the sweet vermouth.

Sweet Vermouth provides the structural backbone and subtle herbaceous complexity essential to this drink.

Angostura Bitters ties all the flavors together and adds the classic aromatic dimension.

Orange Bitters (optional) enhances the citrus notes and complements gin's natural character.

Ingredients

• 2 oz (60ml) London Dry Gin
• 1 oz (30ml) Sweet Vermouth
• 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
• 1 dash Orange Bitters (optional)
• 1 Orange twist (garnish)
• 1 Luxardo cherry (garnish)

Instructions

Preparation

1. Chill your glass: Place coupe or Nick & Nora glasses in the freezer or fill with ice water.

2. Measure ingredients: Have all components ready before mixing.

Mixing

1. Add gin, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters (if using) to a mixing glass with ice.

2. Stir for 30-40 seconds until properly chilled and diluted. The drink should feel slightly viscous.

3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

4. Express orange twist over the surface of the drink to release oils, then drop in as garnish.

5. Add Luxardo cherry on top.

Variations

London Calling with Sloe Gin

Substitute half the gin with sloe gin for a fruitier, more aromatic version.

Earl Grey Calling

Infuse the gin with Earl Grey tea for 2 hours for added tea complexity.

Floradora Calling

Add 0.25 oz raspberry liqueur for a fruity twist.

Pro Tips from The Drink Doctor

The orange twist is not optional—it's essential to the experience. The citrus oils provide brightness that cuts through the gin and vermouth, creating a more complex aromatic profile.

Stirring time matters more than you might think. Under-stirred drinks will feel harsh; over-stirred drinks will become watery. Look for that slightly viscous texture that indicates proper dilution.

Choose your gin thoughtfully. Gins with prominent citrus and floral notes (like Tanqueray or Broker's) work better than heavily juniper-forward styles.