Suffering bastard Recipe
Get ready to discover the legendary Suffering-Bastard - Mixed Drink, a truly exhilarating Highball that's far from a suffer-fest! This isn't just any mixed drink; it's a vibrant symphony of flavors designed to revive your spirits. Picture this: the bright, zesty kick of citrus from fresh lime juice, perfectly balanced by the sophisticated embrace of premium gin and the warm, nuanced depth of fine brandy. A subtle dance of aromatic Angostura bitters adds complexity, all lifted by the effervescent spice of top-quality ginger beer. It's a tall drink that promises a refreshing journey with every sip, making it an absolute standout in the world of spirit-forward cocktails.

The Perfect Suffering bastard
This classic cocktail is particularly beloved for its unique blend of flavors and elegant presentation.
What Makes It Special
- Highball
- Citrus
- Tall Drink
- Ginger
- Brandy
- Shaken
- Served Over Ice
- Gin
- Carbonated
- Mixed Drink
- Bitters
Ingredients (Serves 1)
- 30 ml Brandy
- 15 ml Lime Juice
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- to top up Ginger Beer
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients and ensure you have plenty of fresh ice ready.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, brandy, fresh lime juice, and Angostura bitters.
- Fill the shaker generously with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds, until the shaker is frosty on the outside and the contents are well-chilled.
- Grab your chosen Collins glass and pour the entire contents of the shaker (ice and all, unstrained!) directly into the glass.
- Finally, top it all off with crisp, bubbly ginger beer, pouring gently to preserve the carbonation.
The History Behind the Recipe
The Suffering-Bastard – what a name, right? While its exact origin story is a bit shrouded in charming mystery, legend has it that this Mixed Drink was concocted during the height of British colonial presence in the Middle East. Rumor has it that a clever bartender at Shepheard's Hotel in Cairo, perhaps weary from the desert heat, needed a potent yet utterly refreshing concoction to soothe the 'suffering' officers after a long day. Combining readily available gin and brandy with invigorating lime and the exotic spice of ginger, the drink quickly became a go-to for battling the heat and lifting spirits. It’s a testament to its enduring appeal that this unique Highball has survived the ages, remaining a beloved, carbonated classic for those in the know, a true spirit-lifting elixir.
Presentation and Visual Appeal
Imagine this: a tall, elegant Collins glass, brimming with ice and a beautiful, hazy golden liquid that sparkles with effervescence from the ginger beer. The drink is poured unstrained, so you might catch a tiny shard of ice or two, adding to its authentic charm and rustic appeal. A vibrant lime wheel perched on the rim, or a small lime wedge nestled amongst the ice, offers a burst of color and a tantalizing hint of its citrus heart. This isn't just a drink; it's a visual promise of refreshing escape, a truly inviting sight perfect for any sunny occasion.
Pro Tips and Variations
This splendid Highball is meant to be served over ice in a classic Collins glass, ensuring it stays wonderfully chilled to the very last drop. For an extra touch of pizzazz, garnish your Suffering-Bastard with a fresh lime wheel, a delicate sprig of mint, or even a candied ginger slice for an aromatic twist. Feeling adventurous? Try a high-quality, spicier ginger beer for an extra kick, or if you prefer a slightly sweeter profile, a tiny splash of simple syrup can be a nice addition to balance the citrus and bitters. The beauty of this shaken Mixed Drink lies in its versatility; it's a fantastic choice for any occasion where you crave something both invigorating and delightfully complex. It's truly a testament to how well gin, brandy, and ginger can play together!
This cocktail embodies the essence of classic mixology – simple ingredients combined with expert technique to create something truly extraordinary.





