Archbishop Gin Cocktail with Benedictine and Ginger Wine
A vintage British cocktail that unites gin, green ginger wine, and Bénédictine for a spiced-herbal balance with a citrus edge. The Archbishop is smooth, aromatic, and surprisingly easy to mix at home.
Bold yet balanced, the Archbishop Gin Cocktail layers botanical gin, honey-herbal Bénédictine, and spicy green ginger wine with a lift of lime. It’s a smooth classic that blends warmth and freshness in every sip.
Background
Though its origins are obscure, the Archbishop Cocktail traces to early-20th-century British recipe books pairing gin with ginger wine and Bénédictine. The mix reflects an era that prized aromatic liqueurs and winter-ready comfort drinks.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Gin – crisp, botanical base that defines the drink.
- Green Ginger Wine – adds spice and subtle sweetness.
- Bénédictine – brings herbal depth with honeyed warmth.
- Lime Juice – adds brightness to balance sweetness.
Equipment
Whisky tumbler, bar spoon, jigger, ice, and citrus peeler.
Why You’ll Love It
Every sip offers contrast: gin’s botanicals meet ginger’s heat, softened by Bénédictine’s silky herbs. It’s a refined alternative to sweeter classics—perfect for contemplative evenings or cold-weather gatherings.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap gin for vodka to soften botanicals.
- Use ginger liqueur if ginger wine is unavailable; reduce quantity to avoid excess sweetness.
- Try orange bitters for extra spice and complexity.
Helpful Tips
Serve over clear ice for slow dilution. Express a lime wedge for aroma. Pairs well with spiced nuts or ginger biscuits. Excellent base for pre-batched holiday service.
Archbishop Recipe
Type of Glass
Whisky Tumbler
Ingredients
- 2 oz.
- 1 oz. Green Ginger Wine
- 1 tsp. Bénédictine
- 1/4 oz.
Directions
- Fill a chilled whisky tumbler with ice cubes.
- Add gin, green ginger wine, Bénédictine, and 1/4 oz fresh lime juice.
- Stir gently for 15–20 seconds until well mixed and chilled.
- If over-diluted, strain over fresh ice.
- Express a lime wedge over the drink, then drop it in as garnish.
Raise an Archbishop and toast to heritage flavors that mix elegance with comfort in one glass.
