Grand Marnier is a French orange Liqueur that brings sophistication to everything it touches. Here’s more about it and how to use it.
Thinking about buying a bottle of Grand Marnier or just wondering what that is? This premium liqueur has a beautiful bottle with a distinctive red band and an embossed wax seal. But what is in the bottle and for which cocktails should you use it? Can you trade it for other orange liqueurs like Cointreau or Triple Sec? Learn more about this fine French liqueur, its taste and how to drink it.
What is Grand Marnier?
Grand Marnier is a brand of French liqueurs best known for their product red cord (Cordon Rouge means “red ribbon”). A blend of Triple Sec and Cognac, this French orange liqueur has a refined, developed flavor.
Grand Marnier was invented by Louis-Alexandre Marnier Lapostolle in 1880. He came up with the idea of pairing French cognac with a rare variety of bitter orange from the Caribbean. Luckily he had famous friends who helped him to succeed. His friend Cesar Ritz, founder of the Hotel Ritz, helped him with the naming and the design of the bottle. This chic liquor was even served on the Titanic; we know this because a bottle was discovered in the wreck (source).
How do you say Grand Marnier? The Big Mar-NYAY.
How does Grand Marnier taste?
Grand Marnier tastes like an orange flavored brandy, with hints of vanilla and oak. It has a heavier, more complex flavor than other orange liqueurs like Triple Sec and Cointreau.
Is there a replacement for Grand Marnier? If possible, look for the original. If not available, substitute equal parts Cointreau, Cognac or Brandy, or Triple Sec. Learn more about the differences between Cointreau and Grand Marnier.
Why we love it
Bursting with the rich, developed flavors and allure of cognac, Grand Marnier makes any cocktail so much sexier. At 40% ABV, it’s strong enough to drink in a small glass like a cognac. It’s not a must-have in a simple liquor collection like Cointreau. But we recommend it for the adventurous home mixologist.
How much does it cost?
Compared to other liquors, Grand Marnier is Darling. A 375ml bottle costs around $15-20 and a 750ml bottle costs around $30-45. You will use it in small amounts, so one bottle will last you quite a long time. We advise you to opt for the 375 ml format.
The most popular Grand Marnier cocktails
You can drink Grand Marnier neat in a small cognac glass or as an upgrade for orange liqueur in cocktail recipes. Mix it with champagne or prosecco for a bubbly twist, or add soda water for a makeshift spritzer. Or try one of these popular Grand Marnier cocktails:
The most famous way to use Grand Marnier? As an upgrade for your margarita! Float Grand Marnier over the margarita and it’s packed with sophisticated flavor. Also called Cadillac Margarita.
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Mix Grand Marnier with Prosecco or Champagne! Elegant and refined, it combines citrus notes with lots of bubbles.
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The combination of Kahlua coffee liqueur, sweet Irish cream and Grand Marnier is just about perfect. Drink it as a cocktail or shot (we prefer to drink the cocktail slowly).
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Swap the Cointreau for Grand Marnier and just like the Cadillac Margarita, you’ve got an eclectic, upscale touch in this chic sour.
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Other cocktails
You can also use this French orange liqueur in the following drinks:
The description
This Prosecco cocktail is sophisticated and elegant, with citrus notes and lots of bubbles. It’s easy to prepare parties and celebrations!
- 4 oz (½ cup) champagne (or other sparkling wine)
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) Grand Marnier
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Garnish: orange peel
- Pour Grand Marnier and lemon juice into a champagne flute and shake.
- Tilt the glass at an angle and pour in the Prosecco. Garnish with an orange zest.
- Category: drink
- Method: cast
- Kitchen: cocktails
- Diet: vegan
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