Army & NavyCocktail recipe
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Army & Navy is a bright, gin-forward sour that pairs citrus with almond sweetness for a profile that feels both crisp and comforting. You’ll most often see it discussed as an early-20th-century style of cocktail—built in the same family as other gin sours that balance spirit, lemon, and a sweetener—where orgeat steps in to add depth and a slightly richer texture than simple syrup ever could.
Expect dry gin to lead with a clean backbone, while lemon juice brings a sharp, mouthwatering snap. Orgeat syrup softens that acidity with rounded sweetness and a distinct almond character, creating a creamy, nutty counterpoint that keeps the drink from tasting merely tart. A couple dashes of aromatic bitters add a subtle spiced edge that ties the gin and orgeat together, and the tiniest touch of saline solution tightens the flavours so the citrus and almond pop more clearly.
Served up in a cocktail glass, this is a great choice when you want something refreshing but not one-note—zippy enough for aperitif time, yet plush enough to feel like a treat. You’ll enjoy it if you like gin sours, citrus-led classics, or anything where a hint of nuttiness makes the finish linger a little longer.
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Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Dry gin leads with crisp botanicals sharpened by lemon juice, while orgeat syrup brings a creamy almond sweetness that rounds the edges; aromatic bitters add a subtle spice thread, and a couple drops of saline solution tighten the whole profile and make the citrus pop. It works because the lemon’s snap balances the orgeat’s richness and the bitters keep the gin from feeling too sharp, ideal for sour lovers who want nutty depth without losing brightness.
Method
How to make a Army & Navy
- Dry gin 60ml, Aromatic bitters 2 dashes, Lemon juice 22.5ml, Orgeat syrup 15ml, Saline solution 2 drops
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- First, gather all your ingredients and combine them in a cocktail shaker filled with ice
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- Vigorously shake the mixture for about 10-15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold and frosted
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- Then, grab a fine strainer and place it over your pre-chilled glass
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- Carefully pour the shaken mixture through the strainer into the glass, ensuring a smooth pour without any ice bits
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- Finally, take a moment to admire your work before enjoying your perfectly crafted cocktail
Power tips
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Find out more- Use a cocktail glass that has been pre-chilled in the freezer to keep your drink colder for longer, enhancing the sipping experience.
- Add a single drop of orange flower water for an exotic floral note that pairs beautifully with the orgeat syrup.
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Army & Navy cocktail?
The Army & Navy cocktail is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. It is a variation of the classic sour cocktail format, utilizing gin as its base spirit. The use of orgeat syrup gives it a distinctive flavor, distinguishing it from other sour cocktails. The exact origins are a bit murky, but it's thought to have been favored in both military circles, hence the name.
How does the saline solution affect the taste of the Army & Navy cocktail?
The saline solution in the Army & Navy cocktail enhances its flavors without making it taste salty. Just a couple of drops can make the other ingredients more vibrant, brightening the citrus notes from the lemon juice and complementing the sweetness of the orgeat syrup. Saline solution acts as a flavor enhancer, similar to using salt in cooking, by balancing and binding the flavors together.
Can I use a different type of bitters in the Army & Navy cocktail?
Yes, you can use a different type of bitters in the Army & Navy cocktail to experiment with its taste profile. While Angostura bitters are traditional and provide a well-rounded complexity with their spicy, herbal qualities, other bitters such as orange bitters or Peychaud's can add a new dimension to the drink, infusing it with different aromatic notes and flavors.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Army & Navy cocktail?
To make a non-alcoholic version of the Army & Navy, you can substitute the dry gin with a non-alcoholic spirit or seedlip that mimics the botanical flavors of gin. You'll still use the lemon juice, orgeat syrup, Angostura bitters (note: some bitters may contain a small amount of alcohol), and saline solution. This provides a similar taste experience without the alcohol content.
What is the significance of using orgeat syrup in the Army & Navy?
Orgeat syrup, with its sweet yet slightly nutty flavor derived from almonds, is a key ingredient in the Army & Navy cocktail that sets it apart from other sours. It adds a depth of flavor and a hint of luxury, contributing to the drink's unique profile. Orgeat's rich, aromatic nature complements the sharpness of the lemon juice and the botanical notes of the gin, creating a balanced and sophisticated cocktail.
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