About the Casino cocktail

The Casino is a gin-based cocktail that first appeared in The Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930, though its origins likely date back even earlier in the golden age of bartending.

It’s part of the same family as the Aviation, sharing maraschino liqueur and lemon juice as key components but swapping the floral crème de violette for a drier, more bracing profile.

This cocktail showcases the elegance of pre-Prohibition mixology — simple in composition but balanced and nuanced in flavor.

It’s an aperitif-style drink that has quietly maintained its place in the repertoire of classic gin cocktails for over a century.

Why the Casino Stands Out

The Casino cocktail recipe is crisp, dry, and lightly nutty.

Gin forms the clean, botanical backbone, maraschino liqueur adds subtle cherry-almond sweetness, and lemon juice brightens the mix.

A few dashes of orange bitters provide a gentle citrusy spice that ties everything together.

It’s a cocktail that delivers sophistication without heaviness, making it ideal for starting an evening.

Variations and Pairing Ideas

To make the Casino your own, you can:

• Try an Old Tom gin for a slightly sweeter, rounder profile

• Swap orange bitters for aromatic bitters for a spicier edge

• Garnish with a lemon twist instead of a cherry for a lighter aromatic lift

• Serve in a Nick & Nora glass for a vintage presentation

Pair it with oysters, smoked salmon, or light cheeses — anything that benefits from a bright, palate-cleansing sip.

Why the Casino Endures

The Casino endures because it strikes a perfect balance between dry, tart, and subtly sweet. It’s not flashy, but it’s refined — the kind of drink that impresses quietly.

For gin lovers who enjoy the Aviation but want something cleaner and less floral, the Casino is a winning bet.