Clover Club: The makings of a great vintage cocktail

​In the 1930s, a group of writers would gather in the bar of the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel in Philadelphia. They would discuss the events of the world, literature, and the arts, while sipping pink cocktails. They called themselves, and their signature drink, Clover Club. In Brooklyn, a bar called Clover Club (see the amazing "liquid brunch" menu) is dedicated to these gentleman, and the art of the vintage cocktail.

The cocktail is both tart and sweet, and the egg whites create a dreamy foam. Here is how to prepare a Clover Club:

Clover Club Cocktail

1 1/2 oz gin
3/4 oz lemon juice (or lime)
1/4 oz raspberry syrup (or grenadine)
white of 1 egg

Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with cracked ice. Shake vigorously for one minute. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with citrus or fresh raspberries. If you garnish with mint, this is called the Clover Leaf.

We tried both the lemon and lime versions and voted lemon. But it's OK to use what you have--all variations have their charms. Homemade raspberry syrup won over pre-made or grenadine. Here is an easy recipe you can use with any berry:

Raspberry simple syrup
1 1/2 cup water
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup raspberries
1 tsp. lemon juice

Bring water and sugar to a boil, then add raspberries and lemon juice. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool. Strain into another container, refrigerate and use within 2 weeks.

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One last tip: Buy a citrus reamer like the one pictured. You can find them at kitchen and department stores, or online. They are inexpensive, and you will get twice as much juice out of your citrus fruits.

Cheers!