Sleek, intriguing, and flawlessly balanced, the Angel Face is a classic cocktail that exudes old-school glamour. First recorded in the 1930s Savoy Cocktail Book, this equal-parts blend of gin, apricot brandy, and calvados (apple brandy) delivers a divine combination of orchard fruit, botanicals, and warmth in a single sip.
Why You’ll Love the Angel Face
The Angel Face is beloved for its harmony: botanical gin meets the delicately sweet stone fruit notes of apricot brandy and the understated apple character of calvados. The result is a drink with a smooth mouthfeel, gentle complexity, and a hint of sweetness—perfect for both contemplative sipping and impressing discerning guests.
🍸 Angel Face Cocktail Recipe
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz apricot brandy
- 1 oz calvados (or apple brandy)
- Ice
- Lemon twist or apple slice, for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add gin, apricot brandy, and calvados.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or thin apple slice for a touch of elegance.
Pro Tip: Use a London dry gin for clean botanicals, and look for authentic calvados for the best apple nuance.
✨ Flavor Notes & Customization
- Refined and Layered: Orchard fruit and subtle sweetness up front, crisp botanicals in the mid-palate, a warming finish.
- Spirit Swap: Use a fruit-forward applejack if calvados is unavailable.
- Citrus Zest: Express a lemon peel over the top for extra brightness.
🍏 Classic Sophistication in Every Sip
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, jazzing up a quiet evening, or seeking a unique alternative to stronger classics, the Angel Face delivers complexity and grace. Pair it with a crisp autumn evening or a stylish dinner party, and enjoy a little piece of cocktail history—one beautifully balanced glass at a time. Cheers!