If you’re unfamiliar, triple sec is an orange-flavored liqueur from France. Meaning “triple dry,” it’s derived from the dried peels of both sweet and bitter oranges. It can be enjoyed on its own but is also an excellent mixer. In fact, it’s present in most of the classic cocktails we all know and love. This orange potion has been adding a hint of citrus to cocktails since 1875. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into these timeless tipples, from the margarita to the mimosa to my poison of choice, red wine sangria. Bottoms up!
1. Cosmopolitan
I first heard of the Cosmopolitan from Carrie Bradshaw, the lead character in the hit ‘90s TV show, Sex and the City. This stunning pink elixir is Carrie’s favorite cocktail, so as a fan, I knew I had to give it a shot. It only took one sip to understand why she loved it so much. The Cosmopolitan is a mix of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice. It’s sweet, but not overly sweet. The citrus flavors from the triple sec and lime juice make it so.
2. Triple Sec Margarita
Margaritas are one of, if not the most popular cocktail of all time. I can’t think of a better way to welcome the weekend than with a glass of this classic drink. I have featured many different variations of the margarita, but honestly, nothing beats the OG. The combination of sweet and citrus creates such a refreshing balance of flavors. Three simple ingredients are all it takes to create this bright and beautiful beverage. With a little bit of tequila, triple sec, and lime juice, you can make magic.
3. Sidecar Cocktail
The sidecar is another well-known cocktail that’s as popular today as it was all the way back in the 1920s. If this isn’t a clear testament to how good this cocktail is, I don’t know what is. Created in France around the end of World War I, it was named after the motorcycle attachment, which was widely used at the time. A blend of cognac (a French brandy), triple sec, and lemon juice, the sidecar is as crisp and rich as can be. The citrus flavors are very dominant in this drink, so if you like your cocktails sour, the sidecar is for you.
4. Long Island Iced Tea
I’m almost too ashamed to admit this, but for years, nay, decades, I thought the Long Island iced tea had iced tea in it. I couldn’t be more wrong. Also, based on its name, I was also once under the impression that it was a mild cocktail. Again, I was very wrong. This drink is definitely not for the faint-hearted. Long Island iced tea is in fact a potent libation that combines several liqueurs and liquors: tequila, white rum, vodka, gin, and triple sec. The alcohol flavors are diluted with cola, lemon juice, and simple syrup, giving you a tasty, yet still very strong.
5. Kamikaze
The kamikaze is a bright and refreshing cocktail made of equal parts vodka, triple sec, and lime juice. The ratio of ingredients alone should already tell you that while this cocktail is also sweet, it’s more on the sour side. If you’re a fan of sour treats, this will surely tantalize your tastebuds. Pro-tip: you can transform the kamikaze into a cosmo shooter if you add a splash of cranberry juice.
6. Mai Tai
A Mai Tai is a fun, tropical cocktail with a delicious combination of pineapple and orange. Sipping on this refreshment is like taking a trip to the beach. A blend of pineapple juice, orange juice, triple sec, white and dark rums, and simple syrup, the Mai Tia is the ultimate summer cocktail. A splash of grenadine is added at the end. The syrup sinks to the bottom, giving the drink its iconic, pink layer. Sure, the ingredients list is quite long, but it’s absolutely worth it.
7. Mimosa
Mimosas are another fun, citrusy cocktail perfect for the summer. Made with equal parts sparkling wine and Triple Sec, it couldn’t be easier to whip up. As basic as it is, though, mimosa is one of the most beloved cocktails on the planet. It’s basically a sophisticated, sparkling version of orange juice, so what’s not to love? If you’re looking for a simple cocktail to make your meal with friends more elegant, mimosas are exactly what you’ll need.
8. Mango Margarita
I am such a huge fan of mangoes. This tropical fruit has such a unique level of sweetness and juiciness that I just can’t get enough of. Its bright, golden hue makes it extra appetizing, too. So whenever mangoes are in season, trust that I’ll do everything I can to add it to anything, and yes, cocktails included. Made of fresh ripe mangoes, tequila, Triple Sec, and agave, this mango margarita is a tropical dream come to life.
9. Red Wine Sangria
Red wine, orange juice, and triple sec combine to make a refreshing cocktail. I’m such a huge fan of this cocktail because it manages to transform budget-friendly red wines and gives them a much more sophisticated flavor. You’ll think the orange slices and lemon wedge are only there for garnish, but they’ll actually infuse the cocktail with such a lovely flavor and aroma. Pro-tip: add some apple slices in there, too, if you’re serving it in the fall.
10. Velvet Hammer
The last item on our list may not be a classic, but it definitely deserves the spotlight. First of all, look how pretty! Its lovely pink hue is already a clear indicator that it’s delicious. The Velvet hammer combines cognac, cream, creme de cacao, Tia Maria, and triple sec. Think of it as a mash-up between a mocha latte and orange juice. It seems like their flavors would clash with each other, but on the contrary, they really work. Click on a star to rate it!
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