Difford's Fruit Cup No.1 Cocktail recipe
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Difford's Fruit Cup No.1 is a gin-led long drink that nods to the British “fruit cup” tradition: spirit-forward at its core, then lengthened into something bright, easy, and built for sociable sipping. While it isn’t a single, universally codified classic with one definitive origin story, you’ll recognise the style as a modern, bar-friendly take on the idea of a cup—part aperitif, part refresher—where botanicals and fortified wine meet lively mixers.
On the palate, dry gin brings crisp juniper structure, while orange liqueur adds a sweet citrus lift that softens the edges. Red vermouth contributes a rounded, winey depth and gentle herbal bitterness, and a couple of dashes of aromatic bitters tighten everything up with spice and balance. Ginger ale introduces a light ginger fizz that brightens the mid-palate, and cola layers in caramel sweetness and a darker, mellow finish that plays surprisingly well with vermouth’s richness.
Served in a highball, this is the kind of drink you’ll reach for when you want something longer than a Martini but more characterful than a simple mixed drink. It suits warm afternoons, casual get-togethers, and any moment when you want a crowd-pleasing, gently complex sipper that still feels refreshing.
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Highball glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Dry gin and red vermouth lead with herbal, juniper-tinged depth, while orange liqueur adds bright citrus sweetness; aromatic bitters tighten the edges, and the ginger ale and cola stretch it into a spiced, caramel-citrus highball. It works because the bitters and gin keep the liqueur and cola from turning cloying, and the ginger lift adds snap—ideal for fans of long, bittersweet, gently fizzy drinks.
Method
How to make a Difford's Fruit Cup No.1
- Dry gin 25ml, Orange liqueur 25ml, Red vermouth 25ml, Aromatic bitters 2 dashes, Ginger ale 30ml, Cola 30ml
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- Start by pouring 25ml Red vermouth, 2 dashes Angostura Bitters, 30ml Ginger Ale, 30ml Cola, 25ml Dry gin, and 25ml Orange liqueur directly into your glass of choice
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- Next, add ice to the glass until it's half full, providing a cool base for your drink
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- Place a slice of citrus and a few mint leaves for garnish into the glass before packing it to the brim with more ice
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- Finally, top off your creation with the remaining garnish, adding a fresh, aromatic touch
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FAQ's
What is the origin of Difford's Fruit Cup No.1?
Difford's Fruit Cup No.1 is a creation by Simon Difford, a renowned mixologist and bartender. It's part of his extensive collection of cocktail recipes that explore various combinations of spirits and mixers. The 'Fruit Cup' suggests a refreshing, fruity drink perfect for summer days, and this particular recipe showcases Difford's innovative approach to cocktail making.
How does the alcohol content in Difford's Fruit Cup No.1 compare to other cocktails?
With an alcohol content of 13.15%, Difford's Fruit Cup No.1 falls into the moderate range of alcohol by volume (ABV) for cocktails. Many classic cocktails have ABVs ranging from 10% to 30%, making this fruit cup a relatively lighter option, suitable for those who prefer a less potent drink but still want to enjoy the complexity of a well-crafted cocktail.
Can I substitute any ingredients in Difford's Fruit Cup No.1 if I don't have them?
Yes, cocktails are known for their versatility, and Difford's Fruit Cup No.1 is no exception. If you lack specific ingredients, consider substituting a similar type of vermouth, gin, or orange liqueur. For example, if you don't have red vermouth, try a sweet white vermouth. Adjustments will change the flavor profile slightly but can still result in a delicious drink.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of Difford's Fruit Cup No.1?
Creating a non-alcoholic version of Difford's Fruit Cup No.1 is possible by substituting the alcoholic components with their non-alcoholic counterparts or similar tasting syrups and juices. For instance, use non-alcoholic gin and vermouth alternatives, and replace the orange liqueur with orange juice or a non-alcoholic orange-flavored syrup. The key is to balance the sweetness and bitterness to mimic the original taste as closely as possible.
What food pairs well with Difford's Fruit Cup No.1?
Difford's Fruit Cup No.1, with its mix of sweetness, bitterness, and effervescence, pairs nicely with light appetizers and finger foods. Seafood dishes, such as shrimp cocktails or smoked salmon canapés, complement the drink's complexity. For a simpler pairing, opt for assorted cheeses and crackers or fresh fruit platters to enhance the fruity flavors of the cocktail.
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