Before research taught me that a shaddock is an archaic name for grapefruit or pomelo, I disdained the cocktail name and simply called this one “My Favorite.”

• .75 oz gin
• .75 oz Aperol
• .75 oz fresh lemon juice
• .75 oz St. Germain

Shake with ice, strain, serve.

In addition to its bright citrus burst, the Shaddock offers a uniquely grapefruity flavor that is present in no single ingredient but miraculously appears when Aperol and St. Germain join forces. (The Humble Garnish pointed out that grapefruit magic with their Apparent Sour.)

It must be made with Aperol and St. Germain: I’ve tried substituting other elderflower liqueurs, vermouths, various sweet liqueurs, and all manner of amari. All lacked the grapefruit notes that make the Shaddock such a standout.

The other evening we used spicy Rieger Gin and muddled pink peppercorns for an additional sweet-spicy note.

Just remember to double-strain.

Finally, the Shaddock is one of my favorite ways to test drive new gins. This drink is such a favorite — its qualities are so intimately known to me — I’m likely to have tried a new gin in a Shaddock before I ever try it in a martini or a G&T.

Such is the quantity of Shaddocks enjoyed chez Couper!