The Ace of Spades combines the malty depth of Stout beer with the sweet complexity of coffee liqueur and Cointreau. A drink for those who enjoy it dry, creamy, and lightly fruity – perfect as a digestif or paired with dark chocolate. The slow addition of the stout prevents excessive foaming and allows the flavors to blend harmoniously. Not a quick mix for the impatient, but one with character.
And this is what you need for the Ace of Spades
1 cl coffee liqueur
1 cl Cointreau (orange liqueur)
2 cl Dubonnet (aromatic red wine aperitif)
1/2 bottle of Stout beer (e.g., Guinness or another dark, creamy stout)
ice cubes
Here’s what matters
The secret lies in the stout: use freshly tapped draft beer if possible. The creamy texture and natural carbonation of a fresh stout make all the difference. If you use bottled beer, let it chill in the fridge for 10 minutes beforehand – this allows some CO₂ to escape and reduces foaming. The Dubonnet gives the drink a slightly spicy note; do not substitute it with red wine, or you’ll lose the aromatic depth.
Variations
- Ace of Hearts — Replace the coffee liqueur with 1 cl Amaro (e.g., Averna) and the Dubonnet with 2 cl Port wine. The result is less bitter but more complex with a sweet-bitter note.
- Black Velvet — Simplify the recipe: mix only 1/2 bottle of Stout with 1/2 bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine. No ice, no shaking – just pour slowly into a Champagne flute. A classic with less alcohol but the same creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different beer instead of Stout?
No. Stout is essential for the creamy texture and malty flavor. A light beer would make the drink too thin and too sweet. If you don’t like Stout, try the Ace of Hearts with Port wine instead.
Why does the beer still foam over?
Either the beer is too cold or too freshly poured. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes at room temperature before mixing to allow the carbonation to settle. Also, always pour it slowly over a spoon.
Can I make the drink without alcohol?
Yes, but the taste will change significantly. Replace the coffee liqueur with 1 cl alcohol-free coffee syrup, the Cointreau with 1 cl alcohol-free orange liqueur, and the Dubonnet with 2 cl alcohol-free red wine. The Stout remains – there are also alcohol-free versions available.
