Skip to main content
WhatDrink logo
Cocktails

London Special Cocktail

Served in a Champagne Flute

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic12.1% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
99 cal12.1% ABV0.82 US std2.4g sugar4.1g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Moderatestirred drink

Why: 3 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon

Best for: Brunch, Oysters, New Year's Eve

Ingredients & Tools

  • 2 dashesOrange PeelGarnish
  • champagneChampagne
  • to tasteBittersModifier
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon

How to Make It

StirGarnish
  1. Put a large twist of orange peel into champagne glass.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
  2. Add 1 lump sugar and 2 dashes bitters.
  3. Fill with well-chilled champagne and stir.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.

Best For

New Year's EveAperitif

Food Pairings

BrunchOystersSalty Food

Diet & Lifestyle

Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian

Make it your way

Adjust this drink

Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.

Swap notes

CitrusA citrus twist mostly changes aroma, not acidity. Lemon, orange and grapefruit twists each push the drink in a different direction.BittersAromatic bitters (like Angostura) add spice, clove and cinnamon warmth. Orange bitters are brighter and more citrus-forward. Peychaud's is lighter and more floral. Swapping between them changes the top-note character — use the same quantity and taste, adjusting by drops.
GarnishA citrus twist adds aroma and oils to the surface of the drink without changing acidity. Lemon is sharp and clean, orange is softer and sweeter, grapefruit is more bitter. Express the peel over the glass and wipe the rim for maximum impact.

Explore next

Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

Rate this recipe

Frequently asked questions

What is a London Special Cocktail?
The London Special Cocktail is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Champagne Flute. It has an ABV of approximately 12.1%. A standard serving contains approximately 99 calories.
What does a London Special Cocktail taste like?
London Special Cocktail has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Bitter, Herbal, Spicy. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a London Special Cocktail?
London Special Cocktail pairs well with Brunch, Oysters, Salty Food. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a London Special Cocktail?
The London Special Cocktail has an ABV of approximately 12.1%. That's approximately 0.82 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 99 calories, 2.4g sugar, 4.1g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a London Special Cocktail typically served?
London Special Cocktail is a popular choice for New Year's Eve, Aperitif. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
What drinks are similar to a London Special Cocktail?
If you enjoy London Special Cocktail, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
Can I make a London Special Cocktail at home?
Yes. The London Special Cocktail uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Champagne Flute. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of London Special Cocktail with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.