Claridge Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your glass in the freezer or with ice water before serving to maintain temperature longer.
• Stir gently rather than shake to preserve the silky texture and prevent over-dilution.
• Use fresh ice — larger cubes melt slower and chill the drink more evenly.
• Balance is key: measure precisely to maintain the dry-to-sweet ratio across batches.

Substitutions

• Apricot brandy → peach schnapps or apricot liqueur (may increase sweetness)
• Dry vermouth → blanc (bianco) vermouth (adds slight sweetness, softer profile)
• Triple sec → Cointreau or Curaçao (similar citrus character)

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger

What is a Claridge cocktail?

A Claridge is a gin-based cocktail made with dry vermouth, apricot brandy, and triple sec, typically served in a cocktail glass.

Can I substitute the apricot brandy?

Yes — peach schnapps or apricot liqueur work well as replacements, though they may shift sweetness slightly.

Should I stir or shake a Claridge?

Stir this drink with ice for 15–20 seconds to chill and dilute gently without aerating, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.

What type of gin works best?

A London Dry style gin is ideal; it provides botanical balance without overpowering the delicate vermouth and fruit notes.