Murphizz Fizz cocktail recipe – The Perfect Citrus Gin Cocktail
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades. I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavour combinations, and learned a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide. In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets.
I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests. So, grab your shaker, dust off your favourite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
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Ever Find a Cocktail That Surprises You?
Some cocktails become famous because they’ve been around for over 100 years.
Others quietly earn a place on your favourites list simply because they’re delicious.
The Murphizz falls into the second category.
The first time I made one, I expected something similar to a Gin and Tonic. Instead, I got a cocktail that was lighter, fresher and far more interesting than I anticipated. The elderflower adds delicate floral notes, fresh lemon keeps everything bright and the sparkling finish makes it incredibly easy to drink.
If you’re looking for something different from the usual gin cocktails, this one deserves a spot on your list.
What Is a Murphizz?
The Murphizz is a refreshing gin-based cocktail that combines botanical gin with elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice and sparkling water or tonic.
It’s crisp without being sharp, floral without becoming overly sweet and sophisticated without being difficult to make.
Think of it as sitting somewhere between a classic Gin and Tonic and a Tom Collins, borrowing the best qualities from both.
If you’re new to gin, our Gin 101 Guide explains the different styles and how they affect cocktails like this one. (Internal link)
Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
The Murphizz has become popular because it’s incredibly versatile.
It’s perfect for:
- summer entertaining
- brunch with friends
- garden parties
- pre-dinner drinks
- weddings
- baby showers
- relaxed afternoons outdoors
It’s also one of those cocktails that looks far more complicated than it actually is.
Murphizz at a Glance
| Cocktail Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 5 minutes |
| Serves | 1 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Glassware | Collins or Highball |
| Method | Shake & Top |
Ingredients
- 50 ml gin
- 20 ml elderflower liqueur
- 15 ml fresh lemon juice
- 10 ml simple syrup (optional)
- Sparkling water or tonic water
- Ice
Garnish
- Fresh mint
- Lemon wheel
- Dehydrated lemon
- Lemon twist
How to Make a Murphizz
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice before adding the gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice and simple syrup.
Shake well until chilled.
Strain into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
Top with sparkling water for a crisp finish or tonic water if you’d like a little extra bitterness.
Finish with fresh mint and a slice of lemon.
Behind the Bar with KAD
The elderflower liqueur already contributes a surprising amount of sweetness.
That’s why I almost never add the full amount of simple syrup straight away.
Shake the cocktail first, taste it, then decide if it actually needs more sweetness.
You’ll end up with a much cleaner drink that lets the botanicals shine instead of masking them.
Choosing the Right Gin
Every gin changes this cocktail slightly.
A classic London Dry Gin produces the traditional version with bold juniper and citrus.
A contemporary Australian gin often introduces native botanicals that pair beautifully with elderflower.
Floral gins create an elegant, aromatic cocktail, while citrus-forward styles make the Murphizz feel even brighter.
If you’re shopping for your first bottle, check out our guide to the Best Australian Gins or Gin 101. (Internal link)
Sparkling Water or Tonic?
There isn’t really a wrong answer.
Sparkling Water
Creates a lighter, cleaner cocktail where the elderflower becomes the hero.
Tonic Water
Adds gentle bitterness that complements the gin and creates something closer to a premium Gin and Tonic.
Try both.
You may be surprised which version you prefer.
Easy Variations
One of the best things about the Murphizz is how adaptable it is.
Berry Murphizz
Muddle fresh raspberries or strawberries before shaking.
Herbal Murphizz
Replace mint with basil or rosemary.
Celebration Murphizz
Swap the sparkling water for chilled Prosecco.
Citrus Murphizz
Add a splash of grapefruit juice.
Low Alcohol Murphizz
Reduce the gin and increase the soda water.
Alcohol-Free Murphizz
Use a quality alcohol-free gin and elderflower cordial.
What to Serve with a Murphizz
Because it’s light and refreshing, this cocktail pairs beautifully with fresh food.
Try serving it with:
- oysters
- grilled prawns
- smoked salmon
- goat’s cheese
- burrata
- summer salads
- lemon tart
- pavlova
- fresh berries
If you’re entertaining, this cocktail also works brilliantly alongside a grazing platter.
Need ideas? Our guide to creating the perfect entertaining platter has plenty of inspiration. (Internal link)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a jug?
Absolutely.
Prepare the gin, elderflower and lemon mixture ahead of time.
Add the sparkling water or tonic just before serving.
Which elderflower liqueur is best?
St-Germain is the most widely available, but any quality elderflower liqueur will work.
Is tonic or soda better?
Soda is lighter.
Tonic is more complex.
It simply depends on the style you’re after.
How strong is a Murphizz?
Using 50 ml of 40% gin and 20 ml of elderflower liqueur, one cocktail contains approximately 2 Australian standard drinks, depending on your chosen brands.
A Cocktail That’s Easy to Make but Hard to Forget
The Murphizz proves you don’t need a century of history to create a memorable cocktail.
Its combination of fresh citrus, delicate florals and crisp bubbles makes it the sort of drink that quietly becomes a regular favourite.
Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon or simply looking to expand your cocktail repertoire, the Murphizz is well worth adding to your collection.
Thanks for Joining Us Behind the Bar
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation.
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: Liquor & Gaming NSW.
If you’re looking to complete your RSA in any state or territory across Australia, you can find the full details here