The Paradise cocktail has an interesting history that spans back to the early 20th century. It first appears in Harry McElhone's 1922 book, Harry's ABC of Mixing Cocktails. McElhone's recipe calls for equal parts dry gin, apricot brandy, and orange juice. This initial formulation of the Paradise cocktail showcases the combination of fruity and citrus flavors with the botanical notes of gin.
However, it is in Harry Craddock's 1930 The Savoy Cocktail Book that we find a better formulation of the Paradise cocktail. Craddock's recipe calls for 2 parts gin, 1 part apricot brandy, and 1 part orange juice. This revised version of the cocktail strikes a better balance between the ingredients, allowing the flavors to harmonize more effectively.
The Paradise cocktail's inclusion in The Savoy Cocktail Book helped to popularize it among cocktail enthusiasts and bartenders. The book served as a comprehensive guide to cocktail recipes and techniques, and its influence on the cocktail world cannot be overstated. The Paradise cocktail's appearance in such a seminal cocktail book contributed to its enduring popularity and continued presence in bars today.
The combination of gin, apricot brandy, and orange juice in the Paradise cocktail creates a delightful symphony of flavors. The gin provides a strong backbone with its herbal and botanical notes, while the apricot brandy adds a touch of sweetness and fruitiness. The orange juice adds a refreshing citrus element, balancing out the other ingredients and giving the cocktail a vibrant and zesty character.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experimenting with various cocktail recipes, including the Paradise cocktail. I find that the combination of gin, apricot brandy, and orange juice in this drink creates a well-rounded and enjoyable drinking experience. The flavors complement each other beautifully, resulting in a cocktail that is both refreshing and complex.
The Paradise cocktail has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. It first appeared in Harry McElhone's 1922 book and was later refined by Harry Craddock in his 1930 The Savoy Cocktail Book. The cocktail's inclusion in this influential cocktail guide helped to popularize it among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts. The combination of gin, apricot brandy, and orange juice in the Paradise cocktail creates a delightful blend of flavors that continues to be enjoyed by many today.