Angel's Share Cocktail Recipe
Angel's Share Nutrition Facts
Calories:220
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:12g
Alcohol:20%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Angel's Share cocktail is named after the small amount of alcohol that evaporates from barrels during the aging process, often referred to as the 'angel's share.' This sophisticated cocktail is a favorite among whiskey connoisseurs and those who appreciate the art of mixology. It is believed to have originated in the early 20th century and has since become a classic cocktail enjoyed by many.
How Angel's Share Tastes?
The Angel's Share cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors. The whiskey provides a strong, robust base, while the citrus and sweet vermouth add a touch of brightness and sweetness. The bitters bring a subtle bitterness that balances the drink perfectly.
Interesting facts about Angel's Share
- The name 'Angel's Share' refers to the small amount of alcohol that evaporates from barrels during the aging process.
- This cocktail is a favorite among whiskey connoisseurs and mixologists.
- The Angel's Share is believed to have originated in the early 20th century.
Ingredients
- Whiskey: 2 oz(60ml)
- Sweet vermouth: 1 oz(30ml)
- Lemon juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Angostura bitters: 2 dashes
- Orange peel: 1
- Garnish: Brandied Cherry
Whiskey (2oz)
Whiskey offers a robust foundation with an intricate mix of flavors that can range from sweet and fruity to spicy and smoky. 2 ounces gives the perfect kick without overwhelming the other ingredients. Without it, the cocktail loses its soul—like a band without its lead singer.
Emma Rose
Sweet Vermouth (1oz)
Sweet vermouth brings a sophisticated complexity and a herbal, slightly sweet profile that compliments the whiskey. 1 ounce provides balance; too much could overpower the drink with sweetness, too little and you miss the magic.
Mary Mitkina
Lemon Juice (0.5oz)
The zesty punch of 0.5 ounces of lemon juice adds brightness to the cocktail, cutting through the sweetness and providing a refreshing tang. Omitting it would be like skipping the chorus in your favorite song—it just wouldn't feel complete.
Alex Green
Simple Syrup (0.5oz)
Simple syrup is the peacemaker here, offering 0.5 ounces of sweetness to harmonize the cocktail's flavors. Too much might lead to a cloying drink, too little and the cocktail might be too tart.
Emma Rose
Angostura Bitters (2 dashes)
Two dashes of Angostura bitters contribute a layer of complexity with their herbaceous, spicy character. They're the final flourish on a painting, and without them, the cocktail would be less intriguing and flat.
Mary Mitkina
Orange Peel (1)
The essence of an orange peel when expressed over the drink adds a bright, aromatic touch. Its citrus oils are like perfume to a cocktail—too much could be overwhelming, and none at all would be a lost opportunity for extra zest.
Alex Green
Garnish: Brandied Cherry
The cherry on top, literally. A brandied cherry adds a touch of elegance and provides a sweet, boozy treat to finish your drink, like the encore in a great performance.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make Angel's Share Drink
- In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass.
- Express the orange peel over the drink, then discard.
- Garnish with a brandied cherry.
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality whiskey for the best flavor.
- Chill the glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cold longer.
- Express the orange peel over the drink to release the oils, adding an extra layer of flavor.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Meat Charcuterie: The savory flavors of cured meats pair wonderfully with the whiskey's robust profile.
- Aged Cheeses: A platter of aged gouda or cheddar can complement the sweet and spicy notes of the cocktail.
- Nuts: Almonds or walnuts make a simple yet flavorful pairing.
Main Courses
- Grilled Steak: The rich taste of a well-grilled steak harmonizes with the whiskey's smoky notes.
- Roasted Pork: The sweetness of the vermouth and syrup balances the savory aspects of pork.
Desserts
- Dark Chocolate: A piece of dark chocolate is the perfect companion for the bitter and sweet interplay in the cocktail.
- Lemon Tart: Echo the lemon's zesty kick in the drink with a tangy and sweet lemon tart.
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What you could change in Angel's Share
- Whiskey: Can be substituted with bourbon or rye.
- Sweet Vermouth: Can be replaced with dry vermouth for a less sweet cocktail.
- Simple Syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be used as natural sweeteners.
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And of course - twists🍹
Smoky Angel's Share
- Ingredients: Substitute whiskey for a smoky Scotch.
- Recipe: Follow the original recipe, utilizing smoky Scotch instead of regular whiskey.
- Flavor Change: This twist adds a deeper smoky dimension to the cocktail, evoking the sensation of a cozy fireside sip.
Citrus Burst Angel's Share
- Ingredients: Add an additional 0.5oz of orange liqueur.
- Recipe: Stir in the orange liqueur with the other ingredients before straining into the glass.
- Flavor Change: Expect a more pronounced citrus undertone that complements the existing flavors, adding complexity and a bright freshness.
Herbal Angel's Share
- Ingredients: Infuse the simple syrup with thyme or rosemary.
- Recipe: Use the herb-infused syrup in the original recipe measurement.
- Flavor Change: The herbal infusion introduces an aromatic earthiness, providing a fragrant twist and marrying beautifully with the botanicals of the sweet vermouth.
In case you forgot basics how to make Angel's Share
The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.
Learn everything about simple syrupPlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainInsert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Angel's Share
What is the best type of whiskey to use in the Angel's Share cocktail?
Any high-quality whiskey can be used, depending on your preference. Some might prefer a smooth, rich bourbon while others might opt for a spicier, more robust rye.
Is the Angel's Share cocktail ideal for any season?
Yes. The Angel's Share cocktail has a balance of flavors that makes it enjoyable year-round. Perfect for winter evenings and summer afternoons alike.
I don't like the taste of Angostura Bitters. Can I replace it?
Yes, you can. Some alternatives include Peychaud's Bitters or orange bitters. However, the flavor profile of the cocktail might change slightly.
What other garnishes could be used for this cocktail?
While a brandied cherry is classic, you could also use other garnishes like maraschino cherry, a slice of orange or even a lemon twist.
Are there non-alcoholic versions of the Angel's Share cocktail?
Yes, you can create a similar cocktail using non-alcoholic substitutes for whiskey, like Seedlip Spice 94, and leaving out the vermouth.
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