Angel Face
A sophisticated classic often associated with the Prohibition era and Harry Craddock's Savoy Cocktail Book. This drink blends the botanical crispness of gin with the rich, fruity depth of apricot and apple brandies. Despite its delicate name, it offers a potent, complex flavor profile that is both smooth and warming.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by ripe stone fruit and tart apple over a baseline of juniper. The palate is dense and alcoholic with a prominent apricot sweetness that transitions into a dry, spirituous finish. The mouthfeel is notably thick and silky as the drink contains no citrus juice or soda.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Gin1 oz
- Apricot Brandy0.5 oz
- Apple Brandy0.5 oz
Preparation
- 1
Chill a martini glass in the freezer.
- 2
Add the gin, apricot brandy, and apple brandy into a cocktail shaker.
- 3
Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
- 4
Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
- 5
Strain the mixture into the prepared chilled glass.
Substitutions
- GinVodka — This removes the botanical notes of juniper and pine, resulting in a cleaner fruit-forward profile.
- Apple BrandyCalvados — Using this French apple brandy introduces aged oak notes and a more refined, cider-like acidity.
- Apricot BrandyPeach Liqueur — This shifts the flavor profile toward a sweeter, more floral stone fruit character.
Variations
Bitter Angel
Add two dashes of orange bitters and a lemon twist to introduce acidity and balance the sugar content.
Harvest Face
Replace the gin with an aged old tom gin to emphasize the malty, spiced notes of the brandies.