The quality of the orange juice makes a difference. I use local, freshly squeezed orange juice, which offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to mass-produced juices. Freshly squeezed juice improves the overall taste of the cocktail.
Opt for good quality gin and apricot brandy. The flavors of these spirits are central to the cocktail, so choosing higher-quality brands can improve the taste.
Start with the recommended proportions of gin, apricot brandy, and orange juice, then adjust according to taste. Some may prefer more orange juice for sweetness or a tad more gin for a stronger kick, but I like a strong cocktail and my recipes already reflect my bias.
A slice of orange or a twist of orange peel makes an excellent garnish, adding an extra touch of freshness and enhancing the visual appeal of your drink.
To get an orange twist, use a paring knife and cut into the orange skin. Try not to get too much of the white pith. You can cut the edges of the twist to make them straight and even, like I did.
This cocktail is usually made in a martini glass or coupe glass, but you can serve it with ice if you want a chilled cocktail.
If you add ice to this cocktail, use large ice cubes or an ice sphere. This will reduce dilution, keeping your cocktail strong and flavorful for longer.
Shake the ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker before straining into your glass for a well-combined and slightly aerated texture.