There’s something effortlessly elegant about the Archangel cocktail. With its crisp gin base and the gently bitter, citrusy kick from Aperol, it’s a drink that feels both classic and modern. Light, refreshing, and just complex enough to keep things interesting, it’s one of those cocktails that’s perfect for warm evenings or slow weekends.
Archangel
I’ve made this drink countless times-usually when I want something that’s easy to mix but still feels a little special. Let me walk you through how to make it at home, with a few tips to make it your own.
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Coupe or martini glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 1 oz (30 ml) Aperol
– Cucumber slice, for garnish
Equipment
– Mixing glass
– Bar spoon or long spoon
– Strainer
– Jigger or measuring tool
Method
- Fill a mixing glass about halfway with ice.
- Pour in 2 oz (60 ml) gin and 1 oz (30 ml) Aperol.
- Stir gently for about 20-30 seconds, just until the drink is well chilled and slightly diluted. You’re aiming for a smooth, cold sip-not a watered-down one.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a thin slice of cucumber on the rim or floating on top.
Tips & Tricks
– Go with a good-quality gin. Since the drink has only two main ingredients, the gin really shines through. A London Dry gin gives a crisp, clean finish, while something like an Old Tom gin adds a touch of sweetness.
– Keep your ingredients cold. Store your gin in the freezer and chill your glass ahead of time for an extra-refreshing cocktail.
– Don’t over-stir. Too much stirring can dilute the drink and mute the flavors.
– If you’re not into cucumber, try an orange twist instead-it plays up the citrus notes in the Aperol.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can pre-mix the gin and Aperol in a batch and store it in the fridge (or even freezer if you want it extra cold). Just give it a good stir with ice before serving. Perfect for hosting!
Storage
If you’ve pre-batched the base (just gin and Aperol), it’ll keep well in the fridge for up to a week. Don’t add ice or garnish until just before serving.
Substitutions
– No Aperol? You can use Campari for a bolder, more bitter flavor, or try a splash of elderflower liqueur for a floral twist.
– No cucumber? A fresh mint leaf or orange peel works great too.
– Want something lighter? Use a non-alcoholic gin and Aperol syrup, then top with soda water for a refreshing, booze-free version.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with small bites and appetizers. Here are a few of my go-to pairings:
Charcuterie Board
Think salty prosciutto, cured salami, and crusty bread. The bitterness of the Aperol cuts right through the richness.
Grilled Vegetables
Zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant with a little char bring out the gin’s herbal edge.
Creamy Cheeses
Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese balance the cocktail’s crisp, slightly bitter profile.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s simple, but it feels like a treat every time.
Variations to Try
Want to mix it up? Here are a few twists on the classic Archangel:
Archangel Rosa
– Add a few drops of rosewater for a delicate floral note.
– Stir it in with the gin and Aperol-don’t overdo it, a little goes a long way.
Spicy Archangel
– Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño in the mixing glass before adding the gin and Aperol.
– Adds a subtle heat that pairs surprisingly well with the cool cucumber garnish.
Archangel Verde
– Lightly bruise 2-3 fresh basil leaves and stir them in with the other ingredients.
– Gives the drink a garden-fresh, herbaceous twist.
Virgin Archangel
– Use a non-alcoholic gin and Aperol syrup (or a mix of orange juice and a splash of bitters).
– Top with soda water for a sparkling finish.
– Garnish with cucumber for that classic look.
FAQs
Is the Archangel a good summer drink?
Definitely. It’s light, crisp, and refreshing-ideal for warm weather.
Is it a strong cocktail?
It’s well-balanced. The gin gives it a nice backbone, but it’s not overly boozy.
Can I use another garnish besides cucumber?
Sure! Orange twists, mint sprigs, or even a basil leaf all work well.
What if I don’t have Aperol?
Campari is a stronger, more bitter option. For something milder, try a dash of orange liqueur or elderflower.
Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely. Mix the gin and Aperol ahead of time. Just stir with ice and strain into glasses when you’re ready to serve.
What’s a common mistake to avoid?
Don’t over-stir. You’ll water down the flavors. Also, skip low-quality gin-it’ll throw off the balance of the drink.
Whether you’re relaxing solo or serving friends, the Archangel is one of those cocktails that always hits the right note-simple, elegant, and endlessly refreshing.
