Surf City Lifesaver
An eclectic and bold highball cocktail that brings together a surprising mix of botanicals, anise, and cream. This recipe combines Gin, Ouzo, Irish Cream, and Grand Marnier, lengthened with soda for a unique, fizzy, and potent refreshment.
What it tastes like
This drink features a strong anise aroma from the ouzo balanced by the herbal notes of the gin. The palate combines creamy cocoa and citrus flavors with a sharp licorice bite. The club soda creates a light, effervescent mouthfeel despite the presence of dairy, finishing with a lingering herbal sweetness.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Gin1 oz
- Ouzo0.5 oz
- Baileys Irish Cream0.5 oz
- Grand Marnier0.25 oz
- Club Soda4 oz
- Maraschino Cherry1 whole
Preparation
- 1
Fill a highball glass with plenty of fresh ice cubes.
- 2
Pour the Gin, Ouzo, Baileys Irish Cream, and Grand Marnier over the ice.
- 3
Top up the glass with club soda.
- 4
Stir gently to combine the creamy and clear ingredients.
- 5
Garnish with a maraschino cherry and serve with a smile.
Substitutions
- OuzoSambuca — Sambuca is thicker and sweeter than ouzo, making the drink more syrupy and intensifying the licorice flavor.
- GinVodka — Using vodka removes the piney juniper notes, allowing the anise and orange to dominate the profile.
- Grand MarnierCointreau — Cointreau provides a cleaner, sharper orange flavor without the oaky depth of the cognac base in Grand Marnier.
- Club SodaGinger Ale — Replacing soda with ginger ale adds a spicy kick and significantly increases the overall sugar content.
Variations
Tropical Lifesaver
Replace the club soda with chilled pineapple juice to create a denser, fruitier texture that pairs well with the anise.
Midnight Surf
Use black sambuca in place of ouzo to give the cocktail a deep purple hue and a richer berry-anise finish.