A1 Cocktail
A sophisticated and potent classic-style cocktail that balances the botanical depth of gin with the rich, bitter-orange sweetness of Grand Marnier. A subtle touch of lemon and grenadine provides a refreshing finish and a beautiful blush hue.
What it tastes like
The aroma is led by juniper and orange peel, followed by a thick, silk-like mouthfeel from the orange liqueur. On the palate, the gin's botanicals are tempered by a heavy citrus sweetness and a sharp lemon bite. The finish is dry and lingering with a subtle hint of pomegranate from the grenadine.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Gin1.75 oz
- Grand Marnier1 oz
- Lemon Juice0.25 oz
- Grenadine0.125 oz
Preparation
- 1
Chill a martini glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water.
- 2
Fill a cocktail shaker with fresh ice cubes.
- 3
Pour the Gin, Grand Marnier, lemon juice, and grenadine into the shaker.
- 4
Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the shaker is frosted on the outside.
- 5
Discard the ice from the chilling glass.
- 6
Double strain the mixture into the chilled glass.
Substitutions
- Grand MarnierCointreau — This creates a lighter, crisper profile by removing the oak and cognac characteristics of the original liqueur.
- GinVodka — Using vodka eliminates the herbal complexity and places the focus entirely on the orange and lemon components.
- GrenadineRaspberry syrup — Raspberry syrup provides a more assertive fruit flavor and a brighter red color compared to pomegranate.
- Lemon juiceLime juice — Lime juice offers a sharper, more acidic bite that cuts through the sugar more aggressively than lemon.
Variations
A1 Royale
Strain the mixture into a flute and top with two ounces of dry sparkling wine for an effervescent finish.
Spiced A1
Add two dashes of orange bitters and a pinch of ground cinnamon before shaking to introduce earthy, warm notes.