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Cosmopolitan

The Cosmopolitan cocktail, affectionately known as the "Cosmo," is a vibrant and refreshing libation that gained popularity in the 1990s, thanks in part to its frequent appearances on the hit TV show "Sex and the City." Originating in the gay community bars of Provincetown, Massachusetts, in the 1970s, the Cosmopolitan has since become an iconic cocktail synonymous with sophistication and style.

The Cosmopolitan cocktail, affectionately known as the "Cosmo," is a vibrant and refreshing libation that gained popularity in the 1990s, thanks in part to its frequent appearances on the hit TV show "Sex and the City." Originating in the gay community bars of Provincetown, Massachusetts, in the 1970s, the Cosmopolitan has since become an iconic cocktail synonymous with sophistication and style.

Ingredients and Tools:

  • 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) vodka

  • 15 ml (1/2 oz) triple sec

  • 30 ml (1 oz) cranberry juice

  • 15 ml (1/2 oz) freshly squeezed lime juice

  • Ice cubes

  • Cocktail shaker

  • Jigger

  • Strainer

  • Martini glass

  • Twist of orange peel or lime wedge for garnish (optional)


Preparation Steps:

  1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.

  2. Add 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) of vodka to the shaker.

  3. Pour in 15 ml (1/2 oz) of triple sec.

  4. Squeeze in 30 ml (1 oz) of cranberry juice.

  5. Add 15 ml (1/2 oz) of freshly squeezed lime juice.

  6. Secure the shaker lid and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill the ingredients and achieve proper dilution.

  7. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass using a fine mesh strainer to remove ice shards.

  8. Optionally, garnish with a twist of orange peel or a lime wedge for a decorative touch.


Flavor Profile:

The Cosmopolitan cocktail offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, with the brightness of cranberry and lime juice complementing the smoothness of vodka and the citrusy notes of triple sec. It's a sophisticated and refreshing drink that's perfect for any occasion.



Mixoloco - Mixology Tips:


  • Choosing Vodka: Select a high-quality, neutral vodka for the Cosmopolitan to allow the other flavors to shine through. Experiment with different vodka brands to find the one that best suits your taste preferences.

  • Fresh Lime Juice: For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled juice. The bright acidity of fresh lime juice enhances the overall taste of the Cosmopolitan.

  • Triple Sec Selection: Choose a quality triple sec that balances sweetness and citrus flavors without being overly syrupy. Upgrading to a higher-quality triple sec made a noticeable difference in the overall taste and enjoyment of the drink.

  • Chill Your Glassware: For an extra-refreshing Cosmopolitan, chill your martini glass in the freezer before serving. I always keep a few martini glasses in the freezer so they're ready to go whenever I want to enjoy a Cosmopolitan. It's a simple step that makes a big difference in the cocktail's presentation and taste.

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