The Corcovado is a short, smooth drink that combines the sharp spice of Blanco Tequila with the honey-sweet depth of a whisky liqueur. The lemonade adds fizz and freshness, ensuring the cocktail remains light and drinkable despite its strength. Ideal for the early evening or as an introduction to a longer round.
What you need for the Corcovado
2 cl Blue Curaçao
1 cl whisky liqueur (e.g., Scotch whisky-based)
2 cl Blanco Tequila
12 cl lemonade
1 slice of lemon (garnish)
1 cocktail cherry (garnish)
Here’s the key
The trick lies in the pouring: Hold the bar spoon upside-down just above the ice surface and let the lemonade run slowly down the back of the spoon. This keeps the blue layer of the Blue Curaçao visible longer, so the guest sees the visual surprise with the first sip. Use a lemonade with a bit more acidity – standard Sprite is often too sweet and makes the drink sticky.
Variations
- Corcovado Tropical — Replace the lemonade with 8 cl pineapple juice and 4 cl ginger beer. Adds more fruit and a slight sharpness to the drink.
- Corcovado Dry — Reduce the lemonade to 8 cl and add 2 cl freshly squeezed lime juice. Makes the cocktail more tart and less sweet.
Frequently asked questions
Can I leave out the whisky liqueur?
Yes, but the drink will lose its characteristic depth. The liqueur rounds off the sharpness of the Tequila and gives the Corcovado its typical sweetness.
What ice works best?
Large ice cubes melt more slowly and dilute the drink less. Avoid crushed ice – it makes the cocktail watery too quickly.
Why is the cocktail called Corcovado?
The name refers to the Corcovado mountain in Rio de Janeiro, known for its views and the Christ the Redeemer statue. The drink is meant to recall the colors of the Brazilian sky – blue like the Curaçao, golden like the liqueur.
