The Orient Express cocktail is like a passport to another era-elegant, aromatic, and full of personality. It’s a beautifully balanced drink with bright citrus, subtle sweetness, and a warming spice that lingers just long enough. I’ve made this drink countless times, and every time it takes me right back to a cozy evening with friends, swapping stories over clinking glasses.
Orient Express
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball or Collins glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 1 oz (30 ml) gin
– 1 oz (30 ml) Lillet Blanc
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Ice (for shaking and serving)
– Lemon twist (for garnish)
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, gin, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well-about 15 seconds-until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill a chilled highball or Collins glass with fresh ice.
- Strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Add two dashes of Angostura bitters over the top.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon. Give it a little squeeze over the drink to release the oils before dropping it in.
Tips for Success
– Use fresh lemon juice. It makes all the difference-bright, zesty, and never too sharp.
– Chill your glass ahead of time. Just pop it in the freezer for a few minutes while you prep.
– Don’t over-shake. You want it cold, not watered down.
– High-quality spirits go a long way. This cocktail is spirit-forward, so use the good stuff if you can.
Storage & Make-Ahead
– You can mix the vodka, gin, and Lillet Blanc ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– Add lemon juice, syrup, and bitters just before serving for the freshest flavor.
– For parties, scale up the recipe and mix in a pitcher without ice. Stir well before pouring over ice in individual glasses.
Ingredient Substitutions
– Swap the simple syrup for honey syrup (just mix equal parts honey and warm water) or agave nectar for a slightly different sweetness.
– If you don’t have Lillet Blanc, dry vermouth works in a pinch-it’s a bit sharper but still delicious.
– Orange bitters can replace Angostura if you want a citrus-forward twist.
Flavor Profile
This cocktail is smooth and crisp with a citrusy zing and just enough sweetness to round it out. The bitters add a hint of spice and complexity that keeps things interesting. It’s strong, but not overpowering-definitely one of those “sips smoother than it looks” kind of drinks.
Serving Suggestions
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio or those evenings when you want something classy without too much fuss. It pairs beautifully with:
– Spiced nuts: Try almonds or cashews tossed in smoked paprika or cumin.
– Charcuterie: Salty cured meats like prosciutto or salami play off the herbal gin and citrus notes.
– Dark chocolate: A small square of good-quality dark chocolate brings out the drink’s depth.
Variations to Try
Midnight in Paris
– Replace vodka with dry champagne for a bubbly twist.
– Add champagne after shaking the other ingredients. Stir gently and serve.
The Istanbul Twist
– Add ½ oz (15 ml) fig syrup and swap vodka for rye whiskey.
– Shake and serve as usual-rich, earthy, and slightly sweet.
Trans-Siberian Express
– Use ¼ oz (7 ml) Siberian pine syrup and a splash of smoky scotch.
– Stir into the original recipe for a woodsy, adventurous note.
Virgin Orient Express
– Use non-alcoholic gin and vodka alternatives or swap both for tonic water.
– Adjust sweetness to taste and follow the same method.
FAQs
When’s the best time to serve this cocktail?
It’s great for evening gatherings, cocktail hours, or anytime you want to impress with something a little unexpected.
Can I make it in a big batch?
Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients by however many servings you need. Mix everything except the lemon juice, syrup, and bitters ahead. Add those just before serving over ice.
What’s the perfect garnish?
A simple lemon twist does the trick, but a cinnamon stick or star anise adds a fun, aromatic flair.
Is this drink strong?
Yes-it’s spirit-forward with both vodka and gin, but the Lillet and citrus keep it balanced and smooth.
Too sweet for your taste?
Cut the syrup back a bit or use a lighter sweetener like agave. You can always adjust the lemon to bring more acidity.
First time making it?
Take your time, taste as you go, and trust your palate. Like any great journey, it’s all about the experience.
Final Notes
The Orient Express cocktail is a tribute to timeless elegance-complex, aromatic, and always a conversation starter. Whether you stick with the classic or explore one of the fun variations, it’s a drink that invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
Serve it alongside a small plate of nibbles, play some jazz or vintage tunes in the background, and you’ve got yourself an instant atmosphere. Cheers to the ride.
