Army & Navy

Army & Navy is a bright, elegant classic with crisp gin, fresh citrus, and a soft almond finish. This cocktail recipe shows how to enjoy a drink that feels refreshing, smooth, and quietly sophisticated. The flavor is lively and balanced with a clean, silky sip. Learn how to serve the Army & Navy for an easy cocktail recipe that suits any refined evening.

Glass

Coupe

Prep Time

5 min

Difficulty

Medium

Alchol

Ingredients

1

2 oz gin

2

3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

3

3/4 oz orgeat syrup

4

1 dash Angostura bitters

5

Garnish: lemon twist

Steps

1

Step 1

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add gin, fresh lemon juice, orgeat, and bitters.
2

Step 2

Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled and properly combined.
3

Step 3

Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
4

Step 4

Garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.

Flavor Profile

History

The Army & Navy cocktail is a classic gin sour that likely dates to the early 20th century and is often linked to American cocktail culture. Its name is thought to reference the Army and Navy Club in Washington, D.C., giving the drink a traditional and distinctly social background. Today, the Army & Navy remains known for its balanced, timeless style among classic cocktail fans.

FAQ

What is an Army & Navy cocktail?
The Army & Navy is a classic gin cocktail made with lemon juice, orgeat syrup, and bitters. It is bright, nutty, and slightly floral, with a balanced sweet tart flavor.
What does an Army & Navy taste like?
It tastes fresh and citrusy at first, then finishes with a soft almond note from the orgeat. The gin gives it structure, while the bitters add a little depth and spice.
How strong is an Army & Navy cocktail?
It is a fairly strong cocktail since gin is the main spirit. Even though it includes citrus and syrup, it still drinks like a spirit forward sour.
Can I make an Army & Navy without orgeat?
You can, but the drink will lose its signature flavor. If needed, a small amount of almond syrup is the closest substitute, though it is usually simpler and less rich than true orgeat.
What gin works best in an Army & Navy?
A classic London dry gin works especially well because it keeps the drink crisp and balanced. You can also use a more floral gin if you want a softer, more aromatic version.
Is the Army & Navy similar to a gin sour?
Yes, it is often thought of as a variation on a gin sour. The main difference is the addition of orgeat, which gives it a nuttier and more rounded character.