The Army & Navy cocktail is an elegant, slightly unusual gin-based classic that combines almond orgeat syrup – typically made from blanched almonds, sugar, and orange blossom or rose water – with fresh lemon juice to create a complex yet refined drink. Its balance is just right: citrusy, slightly sweet, and subtly nutty, while the gin’s spicy notes delicately frame the overall flavor. This cocktail is not bold or brash, but it certainly has character. Like a uniform: understated, yet commanding.
Story
The Army & Navy cocktail was first mentioned in the classic cocktail book The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks, published in 1948 and written by David A. Embury. However, judging by its name, it is easy to imagine that the drink may have originated even earlier, during the era of rivalry between the US Army and Navy. The cocktail is also associated with The Army and Navy Club in Washington, a members-only officers’ club where the Daiquiri was first served in the United States. Although it remains unclear to this day which branch of the armed forces the drink actually “honors,” its fans agree that the cocktail is worthy of both services – stylish, yet full of strength.
Ingredients
2 oz (60 ml) gin
⅔ oz (20 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
½ oz (15 ml) orgeat syrup (almond syrup)
1–2 dashes Angostura bitters (optional, but commonly used)
How to Make an Army & Navy Cocktail
Add the ingredients to a shaker filled with ice, then shake thoroughly to chill the drink and allow the citrus, almond, and gin flavors to blend. Next, strain into a pre-chilled cocktail glass. The result is a silky, citrusy, and slightly creamy drink, while the orgeat syrup gently rounds off the tartness of the lemon.
Serving and Garnish
The Army & Navy cocktail is typically served chilled, without ice, in a coupe or classic cocktail (martini) glass. Garnish is optional, but a twist of lemon or grapefruit peel adds an elegant finishing touch.
Calorie Content
A single serving of an Army & Navy cocktail contains approximately 180–190 calories. The main sources of calories are the sugar in the orgeat syrup and the alcohol in the gin.