Cocktails, Cognac, and Citrus: Xavier Herit on All Things Grand Marnier
Xavier Herit, Brand Ambassador for Grand Marnier, draws from his Paris and New York bartending experience to highlight the iconic French liqueur. Now based in New York, he travels the U.S., sharing his passion for cocktails and French heritage with a new generation – and that includes you! He recently shared his insights on all things Grand Marnier with us, and if you’re a fan of this legendary liqueur you’ll want to keep reading!
TM: What makes Grand Marnier unique compared to other liqueurs?
Xavier: Grand Marnier is a blend of Cognac and bitter orange essence; more specifically, 51% of the blend is Cognac!
TM: What makes Grand Marnier’s taste distinct and recognisable?
Xavier: The Cognac brings some subtle notes of vanilla and spices in addition to the vibrant and lively orange essence. Grand Marnier is the perfect ingredient to enhance the flavours in your cocktail.
TM: What recent changes or innovations has the brand introduced?
Xavier: The latest addition to the portfolio is the Grand Marnier Quintessence. 82 % of the bottle is made exclusively from a blend of 11 selected barrels, two of which are from 1947 and three demijohns from the Paradis, which we believe to be even older. The orange essence is the result of a maceration in Cognac and a double distillation.
TM: What are some of the most popular Grand Marnier-based cocktails?
Xavier: The Margarita is by far the most popular one, but I have seen Grand Marnier in many styles of cocktails, from a Mai Tai to a stirred drink like an Up to Date, a hot chocolate, or a brunch cocktail like a Mimosa. Grand Marnier is versatile!
TM: What are some emerging trends in cocktails that Grand Marnier is a part of?
Xavier: Grand Marnier is being seen a lot as a floater in frozen cocktails, in a Mimosa or in hot cocktails during the winter.
TM: What foods pair well with Grand Marnier cocktails?
Xavier: Grand Marnier pairs well with chocolate desserts, cheesecakes, crème brûlée, crêpes and raspberry pies.
TM: Are there any unusual or surprising pairings that you recommend?
Xavier: Grand Marnier and foie gras!
TM: What is your favourite dessert using Grand Marnier and why do you love it?
Xavier: I love pairing Grand Marnier with cheesecake; the notes of bitter oranges, vanilla and spices pair very well with the richness and creaminess of the cake.
Xavier’s favourite Grand Marnier cocktail
One of my favourite combinations is Grand Marnier and coffee, and seeing the Espresso Martini being so popular, this is one of my preferred cocktail recipes.
INGREDIENTS
- 30 ml SKYY Vodka
- 10 ml Averna
- 10 ml Cinnamon syrup
- 1 Espresso shot (45 ml)
- Ice
METHOD
- Add all the ingredients to an ice-filled cocktail shaker
- Shake until chilled
- Pour into a coupe glass
- Garnish with an orange peel twist or three coffee beans
- Serve
Want some more Grand Marnier cocktail and food ideas? Then check out our guide to the best Grand Marnier cocktails and desserts. And for more drinkspiration, visit the Grand Marnier website to discover more about this iconic liqueur.
