Army & Navy
The Army & Navy was reportedly created to commemorate the centuries-old football match between the US military and naval academies, although you might not imagine today's tailgaters clattering coupe glasses. Although the history of this bright and nutty concoction of gin, lemon juice, and orgeat is unclear, it has been linked to the Army and Navy Club in Washington, D.C., an exclusive officers' club where the Daiquiri was first served in the United States. The Army & Navy's history is unknown to the club, but it probably contributed to the drink's rise in popularity, as it is still offered on its cocktail menu today.
The Army & Navy cocktail, a delightful twist on the traditional Gin Sour, first appeared in David Embury's influential 1948 book, The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks. While Embury recorded a basic recipe that included equal parts of lemon juice and orgeat, along with two parts of gin, he was not fond of it, labeling it "horrible." Instead, he proposed a more potent formulation, adhering to a ratio of 1:2:8—one part sweet, two parts sour, and eight parts base.
The version presented here refines the original recipe, slightly reducing the amount of orgeat and incorporating aromatic bitters to achieve a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and boozy flavors. This thoughtful balance enhances the drinking experience and showcases the cocktail’s nutty complexity.
The Role of OrgeatAt the heart of the Army & Navy cocktail lies orgeat, a sweet almond syrup that adds both flavor and richness. Traditionally made with blanched almonds, sugar, and hints of orange flower or rose water, orgeat first made its appearance in cocktails during the 19th century. By the 1940s, it had become a staple in Tiki drinks, providing a unique almond flavor to iconic recipes like the Mai Tai and the Saturn.
In the Army & Navy, orgeat not only serves as a sweetener but also brings an unexpected depth to the classic sour cocktail format. For those looking to elevate their drink, opting for a high-quality store-bought organic is recommended. Alternatively, adventurous mixologists can make their own at home, experimenting with different nuts such as hazelnuts or pistachios for a distinctive twist.
Choosing Your GinThe gin choice has a big impact on the flavor profile of the Army & Navy. A London Dry gin is the traditional choice, offering botanical notes that complement the cocktail beautifully. However, for those who prefer a softer taste, alternatives like Old Tom or Plymouth gin can also be used. The beauty of this cocktail lies in its versatility; you can easily adjust the proportions, increasing the lemon juice for added tartness or the orgeat for a creamier sweetness.
Perfect for Game DayRegardless of the cocktail's precise origins, the Army-Navy game is a perfect occasion to enjoy this drink. With its balanced flavors and nutty undertones, this cocktail ensures that everyone wins, regardless of which team takes home the trophy.
How to Make the Army & Navy CocktailIngredients- 2 ounces London Dry gin
- 1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3/4 ounce orgeat
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
- Garnish: Grapefruit twist
- Combine the Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the London Dry Gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, orgeat, and a dash of Angostura bitters.
- Shake It Up: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled, typically about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass, ensuring a smooth and elegant pour.
- Garnish: Finish your cocktail with a twist of grapefruit peel, adding a citrusy aroma that enhances the overall experience.
The Army & Navy cocktail combines flavor, history, and adaptability in a delightful way. By balancing the sweetness of orgeat with the tartness of lemon and the botanical notes of gin, this drink offers a refreshing twist on the classic Gin Sour. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or simply enjoying a relaxing evening, the Army & Navy cocktail is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and shake up this timeless classic for your next gathering!
