By Camper English

The Bluecoat American Sling

Gin was originally a Dutch beverage that caught on big in England. In Holland they still make some old-world gins called Genever, but almost everything on stateside shelves is made in the London dry style. In the past couple of years, several American-made micro-distilled gins have hit the market, including Aviation from Portland, OR., 209 from San Francisco, Jackalope from Colorado, and New Holland from Michigan. Bluecoat is another American gin made in Philadelphia in the London dry style. It’s herbal and citrusy, with the juniper notes that define gin. They sent us some recipes to try out and the one below stood out as interesting. It’s a highball and it includes Angostura bitters, both of which aren’t terribly common for gin drinks. It turns out it isn’t just interesting—it’s delicious.

1 1/2 oz. Bluecoat American Dry Gin
3/4 oz. fresh-squeezed lemon juice
1 oz. Pineapple Juice
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
1/2 oz. (or more) Club Soda

To make simple, syrup shake equal parts sugar and water in a capped bottle until all sugar dissolves. For drink, combine all ingredients over ice in tumbler and shake. Strain into ice-filled highball glass. Top with a splash of club soda to taste.