General Information
Cointreau is a world-famous French orange liqueur, developed in 1875 by Édouard Cointreau in Angers, France. This liqueur is a triple sec, which means it is made from the distilled peels of both bitter and sweet oranges. Cointreau is still produced today according to the original recipe and contains 40% alcohol. Thanks to its perfect balance between freshness, bitterness, and intensity, it is an indispensable ingredient in countless classic cocktails.
Flavor Profile of Cointreau
Cointreau is clear and colorless, with a crystal-clear structure. The aroma is intensely citrusy with notes of orange peel, lime, and a hint of herbs. The taste is dry, complex, and powerful: a combination of fresh citrus, subtle bitterness, and a warm, alcoholic finish. The mouthfeel is crisp, pure, and slightly oily, without sweetness dominating.
Serving Advice
Cointreau is an essential cocktail component but also stands out on its own. Some recommended uses:
- In classics like Margarita, Cosmopolitan, or White Lady
- With tonic or sparkling water as a refreshing long drink
- Pure or with ice as a digestif
- With desserts featuring citrus, chocolate, or candied fruits
Serving temperature: chilled or at room temperature
Fun Fact
Although many liqueurs are colored and sweetened, Cointreau is distinguished by its transparency and purity. It is distilled four times in copper stills and contains no artificial colorings. Cointreau has been a staple in international mixology for over a century and forms the basis for hundreds of cocktails worldwide.