DeKuyper Triple Sec

DeKuyper Triple Sec is an orange-flavored liqueur bottled at 40% ABV, which is higher than many triple secs and gives it enough backbone to hold its place in a drink instead of disappearing behind the base spirit. Triple sec is a clear, colorless style, so it won't tint a cocktail. The flavor is orange peel and sweet citrus. Expect a bright, candied-orange aroma, a distinctly sweet entry, and a short, slightly bitter citrus-zest finish. The sweetness is real but not syrupy, and the high proof keeps the alcohol noticeable. Its main job is as a cocktail modifier, and a few classic recipes depend on this style of liqueur. In a Margarita, it adds sweetness and orange character alongside tequila and fresh lime juice. A common starting point is two parts tequila, one part triple sec, and one part lime, shaken hard with ice. The Cosmopolitan uses a smaller measure with vodka, cranberry, and lime. It is also a standard ingredient in the Sidecar with cognac and lemon, in the White Lady with gin and lemon, and in the Long Island Iced Tea, where it fills out the citrus side of a mix of white spirits. Because it is clear, it also suits drinks where color matters, such as a pale frozen Margarita. Neat sipping is not what this bottle is for. At this level of sweetness, most people find it more useful as an ingredient than as a digestif, although a small pour over ice with a fresh orange wedge is a simple way to taste it. For a long drink, try it with soda water and a squeeze of lime, or add a splash to sparkling wine for a quick orange-tinted aperitif. For cocktails, build it in a shaker with ice and strain into a chilled coupe, a salt-rimmed rocks glass, or a tall glass over fresh ice, depending on the recipe. Because the liqueur is already sweet, reduce any added simple syrup, and keep the citrus fresh-squeezed so the orange is balanced by real acidity. Store the bottle upright with the cap tightly closed, away from heat and direct sunlight.