How to make Classic Southside Cocktail

Start by choosing a high-quality gin that's well balanced. The gin contributes significantly to the flavor profile so, from my experience, the better the gin, the better the Southside.

In your cocktail shaker, combine the gin, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and mint leaves. Having tried both store-bought and homemade simple syrups, I personally prefer homemade as it lets you adjust the sweetness to your taste.

After adding the ingredients into the shaker, it's time to give it a thorough shake. Make sure it's sealed tight, hold with both hands, and shake vigorously. This step not only mixes the ingredients but also bruises the mint, releasing its aroma and flavor into the cocktail.

Once you've shaken it for about 15-20 seconds, strain your concoction into a chilled cocktail glass. Utilizing a chilled glass will keep your drink cool for longer and provide an extra refreshing sip.

For the final touch, garnish with a sprig of mint. It might seem optional but adding a garnish can elevate the presentation and aromatics, enhancing the overall cocktail experience. Trust me, take that extra second to dress up your cocktail, it's worth it.