Discover a harmonious blend of spirits and flavors with the enchanting Ruby Can’t Fail cocktail—a creation by the esteemed bartender Julian de Feral. Hailing from London, Julian’s illustrious career has graced some of the city’s most renowned bars, and his latest masterpiece, crafted at Lutyens in Fleet Street, showcases his exceptional mixology prowess. In the Ruby Can’t Fail, Julian elegantly intertwines the timeless allure of Tanqueray No. TEN gin with the rich and complex profiles of LBV port and fino sherry. This cocktail stands as a testament to Julian’s artful approach to combining ingredients and creating a symphony of taste experiences. Embark on a journey through London’s vibrant cocktail scene as we delve into the delightful concoction that is the Ruby Can’t Fail.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 3/4 fl oz/50 ml Tanqueray No. TEN gin
- 2 tsp LBV (Late Bottled Vintage) port
- 2 tsp fino sherry
- Dash Angostura orange bitters
- 2 dashes Bittermens grapefruit bitters
- 3 tsp lime juice
- 3 tsp sugar syrup (see page 288 for recipe)
- Ice cubes
- Grapefruit zest twist (for garnish)
PREPARATIONS:
- Begin by introducing the heart of the Ruby Can’t Fail—an invigorating 1 3/4 fl oz/50 ml of Tanqueray No. TEN gin, capturing the essence of classic London dry gin.
- Add 2 tsp of LBV port, infusing the cocktail with the rich and nuanced character of this distinctive wine.
- Incorporate 2 tsp of fino sherry, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile, a tribute to Julian’s inventive touch.
- Elevate the libation with a dash of Angostura orange bitters, creating a harmonious bridge between the different elements of the cocktail.
- Introduce 2 dashes of Bittermens grapefruit bitters, an infusion that imparts a delightful citrusy note, enhancing the overall experience.
- Embrace the vibrant notes of lime juice by adding 3 tsp, contributing a burst of freshness that balances the composition.
- Sweeten the ensemble with 3 tsp of sugar syrup, ensuring a harmonious integration of flavors and a well-rounded taste.
- Shake all the ingredients with ice, allowing them to meld and create a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate.
- Achieve a refined texture by fine straining the captivating concoction into a martini glass or coupe, ensuring a visually appealing presentation.
- Elevate the cocktail’s visual appeal and aromatic allure by garnishing with a grapefruit zest twist—a fragrant flourish that adds elegance and sophistication.
YIELD:
An exquisite Ruby Can’t Fail cocktail, poised to enchant and inspire.
SERVING:
Serve the Ruby Can’t Fail in a martini glass or coupe, inviting guests to revel in the cocktail’s captivating flavors.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Fine straining ensures a smooth and refined texture for an enhanced sipping experience.
TIPS:
- Experiment with different gins to explore diverse taste dimensions within the Ruby Can’t Fail.
- Adjust the quantities of lime juice and sugar syrup to customize the cocktail’s level of citrusy brightness and sweetness.
The Ruby Can’t Fail cocktail, a masterpiece by bartender Julian de Feral, is a true testament to the art of mixology—a fusion of spirits and flavors that harmonize in a symphony of taste. With each sip, we embark on a journey through London’s vibrant cocktail scene, guided by Julian’s exceptional expertise and inventive spirit. The cocktail’s foundation, built upon the robust profile of Tanqueray No. TEN gin, embraces the rich complexities of LBV port and fino sherry, creating a libation that is both classic and contemporary.
Crafting the Ruby Can’t Fail is an invitation to savor the artful interplay of flavors, from the subtle nuances of Angostura orange bitters to the invigorating zest of Bittermens grapefruit bitters. The addition of lime juice and sugar syrup lends a well-balanced brightness and sweetness, ensuring that every element finds its place within the composition.
Whether you’re seeking a cocktail that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation or a libation that celebrates the beauty of mixology, the Ruby Can’t Fail beckons you to indulge in its captivating charm. Share this exquisite creation with friends and fellow enthusiasts, and immerse yourselves in conversations that celebrate the timeless allure of London’s cocktail culture.
In essence, the Ruby Can’t Fail is a toast to expertise, a tribute to creativity, and a celebration of the seamless fusion of flavors that dance on the palate. Raise your glass to Julian de Feral, the captivating Ruby Can’t Fail, and the pleasure of experiencing a cocktail that captures the essence of London’s vibrant mixology scene.




