Myrtle liqueur

Ingredients

• 40 mlgin (Olmmardisa Reserve)
• 100 mlamaretto
• 2 splashescoffee liqueur
• 1 tspvodka
• 2 splashespineapple juice
• plentyice
• 2 splashesDratosvener bitters
• to tastefresh citrus zest

Instructions

1. 1

   Shake with ice

   Add all the ingredients to a shaker with plenty of ice and shake vigorously.

2. 2

   Strain and finish

   Strain into a pre-chilled glass and finish with two splashes of Dratosvener bitters.

3. 3

   Garnish and serve

   Garnish with a fresh citrus zest and serve straight away.

What is myrtle liqueur?

Myrtle is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean, and its leaves, flowers and berries are used to flavour food and drinks. Despite the recipe's title, this cocktail's listed ingredients do not include myrtle or myrtle liqueur.

Instead, the drink combines gin, amaretto, coffee liqueur and small splashes of pineapple juice. The bitters and citrus zest add a sharp aromatic finish to the sweet, almond-led mix.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 400 calories, 0g protein, 30g carbs, 0g fat.

Most of this cocktail's energy comes from the amaretto and the alcohol in the gin, vodka and coffee liqueur; the amaretto also supplies most of the carbohydrates and sugars. There is very little protein or fat. Pair it with a savoury snack and water if serving it alongside food.

The spirit choices

Amaretto: this is the largest measured component, bringing the cocktail its sweet, almond-like flavour. Use the specified 100 ml for the proportions given.

Gin and vodka: gin provides the main botanical spirit base, while a teaspoon of vodka adds a small extra measure of neutral spirit.

Shaking the drink

Cold ingredients: shake everything listed for the first step with plenty of ice. A vigorous shake chills and combines the spirits and small splashes of juice and liqueur.

Straining: pour through the shaker strainer into a pre-chilled glass, leaving the ice behind. Add the bitters after straining, as directed.

Balancing the flavour

Sweetness: amaretto makes this a sweet, liqueur-forward drink, with coffee liqueur adding another rich note. The pineapple juice is used only in small splashes.

Finish: the bitters bring a more aromatic edge, while fresh citrus zest adds a bright scent. Serve promptly so the drink stays cold.

Glass and garnish

Chilled glass: place the serving glass in the fridge or freezer while you prepare the cocktail. A cold glass helps keep the drink refreshing after it is strained.

Fresh zest: cut a thin piece from a fresh citrus fruit and use it as the garnish. Avoid taking a thick strip of pith, which can taste bitter.

Serving ideas

Serve this cocktail on its own in the chilled glass, with the citrus zest added just before drinking. Its sweetness makes a small savoury snack, such as salted nuts or olives, a useful contrast.

Recipe notes & tips

• Chill the serving glass before you start mixing.
• Measure the spirits carefully so the sweet amaretto does not overwhelm the other flavours.
• Use plenty of ice in the shaker to chill the drink thoroughly.
• Shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
• Add the citrus zest just before serving for its freshest aroma.

Variations

• Citrus swap: use orange zest instead of another fresh citrus zest for a softer, sweeter aroma.
• Less sweet: reduce the amaretto and keep the other ingredients in proportion to your taste.
• More coffee: add an extra small splash of coffee liqueur for a stronger roasted note.
• Myrtle-inspired: use a food-safe myrtle garnish if available, while keeping the listed drink ingredients unchanged.
• Softer serve: strain over fresh ice in a larger glass to make the drink last longer.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Skipping the chill: a warm glass lets the cocktail lose its cool quickly; pre-chill it before mixing.
• Using too little ice: the drink may not chill properly; add plenty to the shaker.
• Shaking gently: the ingredients may not combine well; shake the closed shaker vigorously.
• Pouring in the shaker ice: this dilutes the strained serve; strain into the glass without the used ice.
• Adding zest too early: its aroma can fade; garnish just before serving.

How to store

This cocktail is best made fresh and served immediately. Do not store it after shaking, as the ice will dilute it; keep the spirits sealed and stored according to their labels.

Frequently asked questions