The Army & Navy cocktail is a classic drink that, despite its name, isn’t directly associated with military traditions of either the Army or the Navy. Some, however, link the drink to The Army and Navy Club in Washington, D.C., a members-only officers’ club where the Daiquiri was first served in the United States. Despite its unknown origin, the cocktail is a part of the broader canon of classic American cocktails and is considered a refined choice, equivalent to the Martini or the Manhattan.

Army Navy cocktail Recipe

The Army & Navy cocktail typically includes the following ingredients:

• Gin: As the base spirit, gin provides the primary flavor. The type of gin can vary, but a classic London dry gin is commonly used.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is essential for adding a citrusy, tart component.
• Orgeat Syrup: This is a sweet syrup made from almonds, sugar, and rose water or orange flower water. It gives the cocktail a distinctive nutty and slightly floral sweetness.
• Angostura Bitters: A few dashes of these bitters add complexity and depth.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Gin
• 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1/2 oz Orgeat Syrup
• 1-2 dashes Angostura Bitters

Steps:

• Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
• Shake until chilled.
• Strain into a chilled cocktail glass, or Red Solo Cup.
• Garnish with a grapefruit or lemon twist.

Historical Origins and Theories Behind the Name

The exact origins of the Army & Navy cocktail are unknown, but it’s believed to have been created in the first half of the 20th century. It became popular in the mid-1900s, particularly in the United States, and is often associated with the classic era of American cocktails.

Like many classic American cocktails, there is no exact documentation regarding where and how it was created. Some theorize the cocktail was invented to honor the West Point and Annapolis football game. Others tie the cocktail to The Army and Navy Club. While the club continues to serve the cocktail, it has no details regarding the cocktail’s creation.

The cocktail’s simplicity and reliance on classic ingredients like gin and lemon juice suggest it could have originated in the post-Prohibition era, a time of resurgence and innovation in American cocktail culture. It simply might have been named “Army & Navy” to give it an air of dignity and tradition.

While the cocktail’s origin story is enigmatic, the cocktail was first recorded in David Embury’s 1948 book The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks. Embury hated the original recipe, writing that it was “horrible.” Like any true BarWarrior, he suggested a boozier version, which was one part sweet, two parts sour, and eight parts base—which essentially made it a cup of gin.

Modern Interpretation & Flavor Profile

However it came to be, the Army & Navy is essentially a Gin Sour, swapping simple syrup for almond-based orgeat syrup. In contemporary times, mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts often revisit it for its elegant simplicity and balanced flavor profile.

The cocktail offers a balance of botanical gin flavors with the tartness of lemon and the sweet, nutty taste of orgeat, an ingredient in many Tiki drinks. The bitters provide a subtle spiced undertone. The drink’s character is known for its smooth, refreshing, and slightly sweet profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy gin-based cocktails.

The cocktail is often enjoyed as an aperitif or a sophisticated evening drink, or drunk from a Red Solo Cup at an Army Navy tailgate. Obviously, it’s up to you, but we prefer the latter.

Summary

Despite its name, the Army & Navy cocktail is more a part of cocktail culture than military culture, representing the creativity and elegance of classic American mixology.