Liqueurs And Cordials: What To Keep On The Shelf

When liqueurs and cordials disappoints, the reason is usually easy to fix. None of it needs expensive bottles. Below, we walk through liqueurs and cordials step by step.

Getting the balance wrong

Start with an orange liqueur, which is needed for margaritas, sidecars and cosmopolitans. Add a coffee liqueur for espresso martinis and White Russians, and an herbal liqueur for drinks such as the last word or a bourbon sour with extra depth. An almond or cherry liqueur and a bitter aperitivo for a negroni or spritz make a strong starting set.

Bad ice

Worth keeping in mind: quality varies widely. Better liqueurs use real fruit, zest or botanicals and have a more natural color and aroma, while cheaper ones may taste syrupy and artificial. Reading the label helps, and so does tasting a minor pour neat. Since liqueurs are used in modest amounts, a single good bottle will last a long time.

Skipping the measure

Worth keeping in mind: storage is generally easy because sugar and alcohol act as preservatives. Keep most bottles in a cool, dark cupboard with the cap closed tight. Cream liqueurs are the exception and should be refrigerated and used by the date on the label. Fruit and herbal liqueurs may slowly fade or darken after a year or two, so use them while they still taste vibrant.

If you remember one thing, let it be that good ice matters as much as the spirit.

The wrong glass

More often than not, liqueurs are also useful beyond cocktails. A splash over ice cream, in coffee, in a fruit salad or in a batter adds depth with very little effort. Use a measured pour, since a little goes a long way. Offer a small glass of a flavored syrup with sparkling water so guests who skip alcohol can enjoy the same flavors.

If you remember one thing, let it be that good ice matters as much as the spirit.

How to fix it

Liqueurs, also called cordials, are sweetened spirits flavored with fruit, herbs, nuts, spices, coffee, cream or flowers. They are lower in strength than most base spirits and are used to add sweetness and flavor to a cocktail. Walking down the liqueur aisle can feel overwhelming, so it aids to build a short, useful collection.

Fresh citrus does more for a cocktail than an expensive bottle.

Practical tips

A few simple things tend to help:

• Measure with a jigger rather than free-pouring.
• Use fresh citrus, squeezed the same day.
• Never drink and drive; plan a ride home.
• Chill your glasses before serving.

The bottom line

None of this needs to be perfect. Take it one drink at a time. Each one teaches you a little more about balance.