While vodka, tequila and rum get all the praise, it’s actually the Kahlúa, Cointreau and peach schnapps that add the zing to your mixed drinks.
A liqueur is made by adding fruit, cream, flowers, herbs or spices to a distilled spirit. It is normally sweetened and the alcohol content can range from 15-55 percent. Regular liquors, like the aforementioned vodka, tequila and rum, often serve as the base for a cocktail while liqueurs add the flavor. In a margarita, for instance, an orange liqueur (like Triple Sec or Grand Marnier) is added to tequila.
The possibilities are endless with the huge selection of different liqueurs available, so it can be daunting to decide which ones to buy. Luckily for you, we’re here to help! Here are some classic cocktails to help you make the most out of National Liqueur Day.
Ultimate Margarita
1 ½ oz tequila½ oz Cointreau
½ oz Grand Marnier
2 ½ oz sweet & sour mix
1 oz lime juice
Lime wedge for garnish
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Cover and shake well. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a lime wedge!
The Big Lebowski
2 oz vodka1 ½ oz Kahlúa
2 oz half & half
Add vodka and Kahlúa to a glass filled with ice. Top with half & half, and enjoy!
Cosmopolitan
1 ½ oz vodka½ oz Cointreau
½ oz cranberry juice
¼ oz lime juice
Orange twist for garnish
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Cover and shake well. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with an orange twist!
Hemingway Special
2 oz rum½ oz maraschino liqueur
¼ oz lime juice
½ oz grapefruit juice
Cherry for garnish
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Cover and shake well. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a cherry!
Looking for a more adventurous recipe? Just stop by one of our stores and ask a Spec’s expert!
