Old Friend
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Old Friend
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.68 / 5
The Old Friend cocktail is a vibrant and refreshing drink that blends the distinct flavors of Aperol, elderflower liqueur, dry gin, and pink grapefruit juice, served in a sophisticated cocktail glass. This concoction offers a perfect balance between the bitterness of Aperol, the floral notes from the elderflower liqueur, the sharpness of dry gin, and the tartness of pink grapefruit juice, creating a harmonious and invigorating drink. Ideal for sipping on warm evenings or as a chic pre-dinner palate cleanser, the Old Friend cocktail is celebrated for its elegant composition and tantalizing flavor profile, making it a beloved choice for those who appreciate the finer nuances of cocktail crafting.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Dry gin
Calories
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98 calories
Alcohol content
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19.42% | 1.51 units *
Details
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Classic

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Old Friend cocktail is a sophisticated amalgamation of flavors that dances gracefully across the palate, offering a delightful interplay between the bitter and sweet profiles. The sharp botanicals of dry gin fuse excellently with the floral sweetness of elderflower liqueur, while Aperol introduces a subtle bitter edge, perfectly balanced by the refreshing tartness of pink grapefruit juice, crafting an elegant and invigorating sip.

Method
How to make a Old Friend

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Begin by adding all of your ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice, ensuring every component is well incorporated
Proceed to shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, or until you notice the exterior of the shaker has developed a frosted appearance, signaling it's nicely chilled
Once shaken to perfection, employ a fine strainer to pour the cocktail, capturing any unwanted ice chips or herb remnants, into a glass that's been pre-chilled to preserve the coolness of your drink
This process ensures your cocktail is smooth and refreshingly cold, ready for you to enjoy

Power tips
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Use freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice rather than store-bought for a more vibrant, natural flavor.
Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer ahead of time to ensure your drink stays crisp and cold from the first sip to the last.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  · 

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FAQ's

Ingredient specifics icon

What type of flavor profile does the Old Friend cocktail have?

The Old Friend cocktail has a unique flavor profile that combines the bitterness of Aperol, the sweet and floral notes from elderflower liqueur, and the sharpness of dry gin. The addition of pink grapefruit juice introduces a fresh, tart, and slightly sweet element, resulting in a balanced and refreshing drink.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I substitute any ingredient if I don't have elderflower liqueur?

If you don't have elderflower liqueur, a common substitute is St. Germain, which is also an elderflower liqueur and should provide a similar floral sweetness. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic alternative, a small amount of elderflower syrup or cordial diluted with water can be used but adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the cocktail.

Faq icon

Is the Old Friend cocktail suitable for those who prefer less alcohol content?

With an alcohol content of 19.42%, the Old Friend cocktail is moderately strong. Those preferring a less alcoholic drink might consider reducing the amount of dry gin slightly or increasing the volume of pink grapefruit juice. However, altering the recipe will affect the cocktail's intended flavor balance.

Faq icon

What is the best time to serve the Old Friend cocktail?

The Old Friend cocktail, with its refreshing and slightly floral characteristics, is ideal for spring and summer gatherings. It's particularly suitable for brunches, garden parties, or any occasion that calls for a light, refreshing drink to be enjoyed in the warmth of the season.

Faq icon

How important is the choice of glassware for the Old Friend cocktail?

Serving the Old Friend in a cocktail glass is not just about aesthetics; it also impacts the drinking experience. The cocktail glass helps concentrate the aromatics, enhancing the floral and citrus notes for the drinker. While you can serve it in a different glass, using the recommended cocktail glass ensures the best balance between visual appeal and taste.

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