Grand Marnier is an orange liqueur blended with cognac. Its distinctive feature lies in being cognac-based, setting it apart from other orange liqueurs. While neutral bases are used in most orange liqueurs, emphasizing the orange flavor, the presence of cognac in Grand Marnier adds another dimension to its taste profile. Hence, it’s important to consider this aspect when using it in cocktails.
Oranges (bitter oranges) used in Grand Marnier are harvested before they fully ripen, while they are still green. This is because this stage offers the highest aromatic richness. The orange peels are subsequently sun-dried. This process is noted to be the best for preserving the oils’ aromas and flavors. The peels are then subjected to maceration in neutral alcohol and undergo a slow distillation to achieve a superior essence. Subsequently, they are blended with cognac and matured in oak casks. The cognac used in Grand Marnier is also produced by the same distillery.
As an additional note: Orange liqueur, triple sec, and curaçao actually belong to the same category of spirits and can be used interchangeably by different brands.
