Cool, minty, and just a little mysterious-the Fallen Angel is one of those cocktails that feels like it should be sipped on a warm evening, maybe with good conversation and a slow sunset in the background. With crisp gin, a splash of lemon, a whisper of mint, and a touch of bitters, it’s refreshing with a bit of bite. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to surprise people with how balanced and bright it tastes. Let’s walk through how to make it, plus a few fun twists and tips to make it your own.
Fallen Angel
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Martini or coupe glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp (5 ml) green crème de menthe
– 1 dash Angostura bitters
– Ice (for shaking)
– Optional garnish: lemon twist or maraschino cherry
Equipment
– Cocktail shaker
– Strainer
– Jigger or measuring spoons
– Martini or coupe glass (chilled, if possible)
Method
- Fill your shaker halfway with ice. This helps chill the drink quickly without over-diluting it.
- Pour in the gin, lemon juice, crème de menthe, and bitters. Use fresh lemon juice-it really makes a difference.
- Shake it up! Give it a good, hard shake for about 15 seconds. You want it ice-cold and nicely mixed.
- Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist for brightness or a cherry for a bit of sweetness. Either way, it adds a nice touch.
Tips & Tricks
– Use quality gin. A smooth, botanical gin works beautifully here-something like Bombay Sapphire or Tanqueray.
– Don’t overdo the crème de menthe. It’s strong stuff. A little goes a long way to bring that cool mint note.
– Chill your glass. Pop it in the freezer while you prep the drink. It keeps everything crisp longer.
– Fresh lemon juice only. Bottled lemon juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the ingredients (minus the ice) a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge. Just give it a good shake with ice before serving. Leftovers aren’t really a thing here-it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Serving Suggestions
The Fallen Angel is perfect for:
– A summer dinner party starter
– A refreshing happy hour option
– An after-dinner wind-down drink
I love serving it with light bites like goat cheese crostini or spicy shrimp skewers. The mint and lemon cut through rich or spicy flavors beautifully.
Flavor Notes
This cocktail’s got a little something for everyone-herbal from the gin, zesty from the lemon, cool from the mint, and just a hint of warmth from the bitters. It’s not too sweet, not too sour. Just right.
Variations to Try
Heaven’s Bliss
– Add muddled cucumber slices and 1/2 oz (15 ml) elderflower liqueur.
– Shake with the rest of the ingredients for a garden-fresh take.
Sinful Seraph
– Swap the gin for tequila and add a splash (1 oz/30 ml) of fresh grapefruit juice.
– Shake and serve with a salted rim for a tart, citrusy twist.
Angel’s Whisper
– Add a dash of lavender syrup and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
– The floral notes make it feel extra special.
Virgin Fallen Angel (Non-Alcoholic)
– Replace gin with sparkling water or tonic.
– Use mint syrup instead of crème de menthe.
– Add fresh mint leaves and lemon juice.
– Shake and strain over ice for a refreshing mocktail.
Substitutions
– Gin: Try vodka for a smoother, more neutral base.
– Crème de menthe: Use a few torn mint leaves and a splash of simple syrup for a fresher, less intense version.
– Bitters: Orange bitters add a nice citrusy twist if you want to switch it up.
What to Serve With It
Spicy Canapés
The mint and citrus balance out heat beautifully.
Grilled Shrimp or Fish
Lemon and seafood are always a good match.
Dark Chocolate
The bitters and mint bring out rich cocoa flavors-unexpected but delicious.
Common Pitfalls
– Too much crème de menthe can overpower the drink. Stick to the teaspoon.
– Avoid bottled lemon juice-it dulls the flavor.
– Don’t skip the shake. Stirring won’t blend the ingredients as well or get that icy chill.
Behind the Name
The Fallen Angel dates back to the early 1900s, right around the golden age of cocktails. It was a hit in speakeasies during Prohibition-maybe because of its slightly rebellious name and its elegant yet punchy flavor. Some say the green hue reminded folks of absinthe, which was all the rage at the time. There’s a bit of mystique to it, and that’s part of the fun.
FAQs
Can I make a batch for a party?
Definitely. Just multiply the amounts and shake in batches or stir in a large pitcher, then serve over ice or strain into chilled glasses.
What’s a good time to serve it?
Evenings, cocktail hour, or anytime you want to impress with something a little different.
Is there a non-minty version?
Yes! Try using mint simple syrup or even skipping the crème de menthe and just using a fresh mint garnish.
What other cocktails are similar?
If you like this, you might enjoy the Southside (gin, mint, lime) or The Last Word (gin, lime, maraschino, chartreuse).
How do I get that perfect garnish?
Twist a strip of lemon peel over the drink to release its oils before dropping it in. It smells amazing and looks polished.
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This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something crisp and a little fancy without being fussy. Whether you’re making it for guests or just treating yourself, the Fallen Angel delivers a cool, balanced sip that never goes out of style.
