Beer can just as easily be an ingredient in cocktails as bitters, liqueurs and citrus, adding carbonation and, depending on what style of beer is used, a rich bitterness from the hops or dark roasty notes from the malts. Not that the idea of combining beer with other beverages is anything new — shandies and micheladas have been common drinks for years.
But a shandy isn’t exactly a winter tipple. Make this boozed-up version to be the right accompaniment for a romantic fireside night and you’ll find that even as the temperature drops outside, you’ll be cozy inside with the warming effects of Grand Marnier cognac (the Cordon Rouge is a blend of cognac and Caribbean oranges), gently offset by beer’s refreshing qualities.
Grand Marnier Berry Shandy
1 1/2 oz. Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge
1 strawberry
1/2 oz. ginger syrup (see below)
6 oz. wheat beer
Muddle strawberry and ginger syrup and add ice.
Top with beer. Float Grand Marnier on top. Garnish with a strawberry.
Ginger Syrup
3/4 cup ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
Bring ginger, sugar and water to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring until sugar has dissolved. Gently simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
Strain through a sieve, removing remaining ginger, then cool to room temperature.
— Grand Marnier
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