Apricot Brandy Rickey

Pro tips

• Use fresh-squeezed lime juice—bottled versions lack the acidity and brightness this simple drink depends on.
• Fill a chilled glass with ice before building to keep the cocktail cold and properly diluted.
• Squeeze the lime juice directly into the glass over ice, then stir gently after adding brandy to distribute flavors evenly.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Apricot Brandy → other apricot brandy brands or apricot liqueur (adjust sweetness to taste)
• Fresh lime → fresh lemon juice (shifts profile from tart-tropical to more floral-tart)

What's the difference between a rickey and a gin fizz?

A rickey is typically a spirit, citrus, and ice drink without carbonation or egg white; a fizz adds soda water and often requires shaking. This Apricot Brandy Rickey skips the fizz.

Can I use fresh apricot juice instead of apricot brandy?

No; apricot brandy provides both sweetness and alcohol structure. Apricot juice would dilute the drink and remove the spirit base entirely.

Should I chill the glass first?

Yes. Pre-chilling ensures the cocktail stays cold longer, especially important for a simple, ice-only drink.

What's the best lime juice to use?

Fresh-squeezed lime juice is essential; bottled juice lacks brightness and will flatten the drink's citrus profile.