Katy Riddle has a taste of Cointreau’s new range of Designer Cocktails at Cadillac House in Manhattan.
Cointreau is helping us to celebrate the holiday season in style with their exclusive first Designer Cocktail series. The pioneer in crafted spirits has teamed up with four stars from the worlds of art, cuisine and fashion to create an array of contemporary recipes that put a cool new twist on classic tipples, promising to elevate any social gathering into a memorable special occasion.
With its unique balanced flavour thanks to the blend of bitter and sweet orange peels, Cointreau has been a favourite of mixologists and bartenders around the globe since 1849. Invited to join them at sleek Cadillac House to discover The Art of the Mix and enjoy a first taste of the new collection, I was impressed to learn the versatility of this much-loved orange liqueur and the key role it has played in countless iconic cocktails.
Of course an evening of partying in New York could only begin with a Cosmopolitan. Actress and designer Olivia Culpo, who hosted the event, had created the Red Carpet Cosmo offering a modern take on the city’s famed signature drink, with sweet raspberry matching the sharp lime and a candied ginger garnish bringing extra glamour and a welcome touch of warmth.
The next Designer Cocktail recommended to me by Cointreau’s talented bar team was The Lavender Sidecar by celebrity pastry chef Elizabeth Chambers. The infused sugar rim provided a delicately fragrant scent and subtle aftertaste, alongside the fresh citrus hit of lemon and grapefruit.
My fellow guests and I toasted the start of the festive season over street artist Bradley Theodore’s Gold Street Margarita whilst admiring his eye-catching portraits. This colourful cocktail packed a punch and featured a sparkling speciality rim of black sesame and gold flake. Those who felt so inspired could also join in the fun creative spirit by choosing a bespoke combination of additional herbs, dried fruits and spices to brighten up their margaritas even further.
My personal highlight was the Jalapeño Fizz by fashion designer and creative director Marissa Webb. This dangerously drinkable long cocktail boasted brilliantly innovative jalapeño-infused Cointreau and a cilantro salted rim, with the thirst-quenching bubbly soda perfectly balancing the chilli pepper’s spicy kick.
Party hosts wishing to create magical moments for friends and family this holiday season can count on Cointreau’s unique Designer Cocktails – their unexpected fabulous flavour combinations and stylish presentations are sure to dazzle and delight! To discover the recipes, visit cointreau.com.
Cadillac House is located at 330 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10013. Find out more at cadillac.com.
