Napoleon Armagnac Recipe

Build (Rocks)

Place a large ice cube in a chilled old-fashioned glass. Add 2 oz Armagnac, 1/2 oz Cointreau, 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice, 1/4 oz simple syrup, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters directly into the glass. Stir gently with a bar spoon for 20–30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly (about 8–10 full turns), coating the ice and integrating the ingredients.

Brighten & Finish

Express the oils from an orange twist over the glass by holding the twist skin-side down above the drink and giving it a firm squeeze so oils spray over the surface. Run the twist around the rim and drop it into the drink (or discard if you prefer).

Shake

If you prefer a chilled, slightly frothy Napoleon, add 2 oz Armagnac, 1/2 oz Cointreau, 1/2 oz lemon juice, 1/4 oz simple syrup and 2 dashes bitters to a shaker filled with ice (about 1 cup). Shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until well chilled.

Double Strain & Serve

Double strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass. Express an orange twist over the surface, run it around the rim, then drop it in as garnish (or add a brandied cherry if desired).

Adjust sweetness with simple syrup to taste — Armagnac can vary in richness and sweetness, so start with 1/4 oz and increase up to 1/2 oz if desired. Use a good-quality Armagnac for depth; the Cointreau provides bright orange lift while lemon and bitters balance the spirit's warmth.