Three Emmas: A Sophisticated Lemon Gin and Sherry Cocktail
Aug 29, 2025
The Three Emmas is a sophisticated lemon gin cocktail that offers a unique twist on the classic gin sour. It's a perfect example of a sherry and gin cocktail, combining the crispness of gin with the nutty depth of sherry for a truly memorable drink. Created by Cassie McCloud for the beautiful Hotel Emma in San Antonio, Texas, this cocktail features our award-winning El Guapo™ Rose Cordial.
Three Emmas Cocktail Recipe
This sherry and gin cocktail is a harmonious blend of citrus, botanicals, and delicate floral notes.
Yields: 1 cocktail
Ingredients:
- 0.75 oz The Botanist Gin
- 1 oz Sandeman Character Sherry
- 1 oz El Guapo™ Rose Cordial
- 0.5 oz grapefruit juice
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- Basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker over ice, combine all ingredients.
- Shake until well chilled.
- Strain into a tulip or coupe glass over standard cubes of ice.
- Garnish with a fresh basil leaf.
Why This Sherry and Gin Cocktail Works
The combination of sherry and gin may seem unconventional, but it's a match made in heaven. The crisp, juniper-forward notes of gin are perfectly complemented by the dry, nutty, and complex character of the sherry. This creates a more full-bodied and nuanced sherry and gin cocktail compared to a standard martini. The addition of fresh lemon and grapefruit juices makes this a refreshing and balanced lemon gin cocktail that is both citrusy and deeply flavorful.
More About the Hotel Emma
This cocktail's name is a tribute to the beautiful Hotel Emma in San Antonio, Texas. The hotel, formerly a 19th-century brewhouse, is now a stunning example of restored architecture and a hub for incredible hospitality. The Three Emmas cocktail, created by Cassie McCloud, captures the spirit of the hotel's elegance and charm, making it a fitting signature drink.
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo's homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does sherry taste like in a cocktail?
Sherry is a fortified wine with a wide range of flavors, from dry and crisp to sweet and nutty. In a cocktail, a dry sherry like the Sandeman Character used here adds a complex, nutty, and savory character that enhances the other ingredients without adding too much sweetness.
What is a cordial?
A cordial is a sweetened syrup often used in cocktails to provide flavor and sweetness. Our El Guapo™ Rose Cordial is made from real roses, giving it a delicate, fragrant flavor that adds a floral layer to this lemon gin cocktail.
