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Cocktails

White Elephant

Served in a Cocktail Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic26% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
199 cal26% ABV1.73 US std3.2g sugar4.4g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Easyshaken drink

Why: 3 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker

Best for: Charcuterie, Citrus Based Food, Aperitif

Ingredients & Tools

BaseModifierDairy / texture
  • 2.0 ozGinBase
  • 1.0 ozSweet VermouthModifier
  • 1.0 ozEgg WhiteDairy / texture
Tools:shaker

How to Make It

  1. Shake with ice and strain into cocktail glass.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.

Best For

AperitifHappy Hour

Food Pairings

CharcuterieCitrus Based FoodHerbal Food

Diet & Lifestyle

Gluten-FreeVegetarian

Make it your way

Adjust this drink

Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.

Swap notes

Base spiritGin swaps are risky — botanicals vary wildly. London Dry is drier and more juniper-forward; Old Tom is sweeter; sloe gin adds fruit. If you swap, stay within the same style and taste as you go.

Explore next

Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

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Frequently asked questions

What is a White Elephant?
The White Elephant is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 26.0%. A standard serving contains approximately 199 calories.
What does a White Elephant taste like?
White Elephant has a flavour profile featuring Herbal, Botanical, Citrus, Juniper. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a White Elephant?
White Elephant pairs well with Charcuterie, Citrus Based Food, Herbal Food. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a White Elephant?
The White Elephant has an ABV of approximately 26.0%. That's approximately 1.73 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 199 calories, 3.2g sugar, 4.4g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a White Elephant typically served?
White Elephant is a popular choice for Aperitif, Happy Hour. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
What drinks are similar to a White Elephant?
If you enjoy White Elephant, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
Can I make a White Elephant at home?
Yes. The White Elephant uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of White Elephant with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.