Paradise Cocktail – Apricot Brandy, Gin & Orange Juice Classic

The Paradise Cocktail is a simple yet sophisticated drink that has stood the test of time. With just three ingredients—apricot brandy, gin, and orange juice—it delivers an elegant balance of fruitiness, botanicals, and citrus. Light, refreshing, and versatile, it’s a cocktail that feels just as fitting for a daytime brunch as it does for a late-night classic.

Background

Paradise is an IBA official cocktail, dating back to the early 20th century. Its reputation comes from its simplicity and poise: a short list of ingredients that combine into a drink greater than the sum of its parts. It’s been featured in cocktail manuals for decades, representing the bright, fruit-forward side of gin classics.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Apricot Brandy – provides luscious stone fruit sweetness.
• Gin – adds crisp botanicals and balance.
• Orange Juice – fresh citrus brightness that ties it all together.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Strainer
• Cocktail glass

A Taste of Elegance

The Paradise Cocktail is more than the sum of its parts. Apricot brandy delivers smooth fruitiness, while gin cuts through with crisp botanicals. Orange juice adds a fresh, tart edge, making the cocktail light yet complex—a perfect harmony of flavors.

Substitutions & Variations

• Use Cognac instead of gin for a richer, warmer variation.
• Swap peach liqueur in place of apricot brandy for a softer fruit note.
• Try blood orange juice for a deeper color and tart-sweet twist.
• Add a dash of orange bitters for complexity.

Helpful Tips

• Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
• Chill the cocktail glass before serving for extra refinement.
• This drink shines as a pre-dinner aperitif—light, crisp, and appetite-whetting.
• Garnish with an orange twist if you want a simple, elegant finish.