As a bartender, I've seen it all. From the classic Old Fashioned to the trendy Aperol Spritz, I've mixed up countless drinks for thirsty patrons. But there's something special about a gold cocktail.
Maybe it's the shimmering hue that catches the eye or the luxuriousness that it exudes. Whatever it is, there's no denying that a gold cocktail is the perfect way to add a touch of glamour to any occasion.
Of course, not all gold cocktails are created equal. Some are overly sweet and cloying, while others are too strong and intense.
As a seasoned bartender, I've tasted my fair share of gold cocktails and have narrowed down the best recipes that are sure to impress even the most discerning drinkers.
But before we dive into the recipes, let's talk about what makes a good gold cocktail. For starters, it should have a balanced flavor profile that isn't too sweet or too bitter.
It should also be visually appealing, with a golden hue that's both eye-catching and Instagram-worthy. Finally, it should be easy to make, so you can whip up a batch for your next party without breaking a sweat.
With these criteria in mind, I've scoured the cocktail world to bring you the best gold cocktail recipes out there.
Whether you're in the mood for something fruity and refreshing or something boozy and bold, there's a gold cocktail on this list that will satisfy your cravings. So grab your shaker and let's get mixing!
1. Pot of Gold Cocktail
The Pot of Gold Cocktail is a perfect drink to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. This cocktail is a mix of apple schnapps, coconut rum, and pineapple juice that creates a sweet and refreshing taste. The Drunken Leprechaun variation of this cocktail adds a few drops of green food coloring and maraschino cherries to garnish the drink.
The combination of flavors in this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and make them feel lucky. If you want to add a festive touch to your St. Patrick's Day celebration, the Pot of Gold Cocktail is a must-try.
2. The Golden Snitch Cocktail
"The Golden Snitch Cocktail" is a Harry Potter inspired cocktail that is perfect for Halloween or any occasion that calls for a moody and delicious drink. This bubbly and deep gold cocktail is a mix of sweet apple cider, whiskey, St. Germain (elderflower liquor), lemon, maple, and spices.
The cocktail is garnished with a cocktail cherry wrapped in edible gold leaf and small feathers for wings, resembling the Golden Snitch from the Harry Potter series. The drink is easy to make and has a kick from the whiskey, spice from the ginger, and warmth from the cider and cinnamon. The Golden Snitch Cocktail is a must-try for any Harry Potter fan or anyone looking for a fun and delicious cocktail.
3. Gilded Vanilla Pear Sparkler
The Gilded Vanilla Pear Sparkler is a luxurious cocktail made with Eau Claire Distillery's Christmas Gin, Brut Prosecco, Italian vanilla liqueur, bright lemon juice, and a stunning pear syrup. The addition of 24 karat gold flakes in the gin adds a glittering effect to the drink, making it perfect for a glamorous celebration.
The pear syrup is made by poaching Bosc pears in Canadian honey and Tahitian vanilla extract, which gives the cocktail a fruity and refined sugar-free backdrop. The cocktail is garnished with a pear fan and a sparkler, making it a showstopper at any party.
4. Irish Gold Rush
The Irish Gold Rush is a delightful twist on the classic Gold Rush cocktail. Instead of bourbon, this cocktail uses Irish whiskey as its base. The addition of clover honey syrup infused with lavender and a touch of lemon juice gives the drink a floral note that pairs perfectly with the whiskey.
The honey syrup makes the cocktail thick and creamy, while the lemon juice adds a puckery sourness. This cocktail is perfect for those who love a sweet and sour drink with a floral twist. If you're looking for a unique and tasty Gold Cocktail recipe, the Irish Gold Rush is definitely worth a try.
5. Gold Shimmery Champagne Cocktail
The Gold Shimmery Champagne Cocktail is a mesmerizingly beautiful drink that is perfect for any special occasion. This easy-to-make cocktail combines St-Germain liqueur with a touch of gold luster dust to create a shimmery base that is then topped with your favorite bubbly. The result is a sweet and fruity cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
The shimmer lasts for about a minute, making it a fun and magical drink to enjoy. This cocktail is perfect for New Year's Eve, Valentine's Day, or any other celebration where you want to add a touch of extravagance. If you're looking for a show-stopping cocktail that is easy to make and sure to impress, the Gold Shimmery Champagne Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
6. Coconut Vodka Cocktail
The Coconut Vodka Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious summer treat that is perfect for sipping by the pool or on the front porch. Made with Grey Goose vodka, coconut juice, pineapple and coconut nectar, Kinky Gold, and crushed ice, this cocktail is a perfect blend of flavors that will leave you feeling refreshed and energized.
The garnish of fresh rosemary and orange peel adds a touch of elegance to the drink, making it perfect for any occasion. If you're looking for a light and refreshing cocktail to enjoy this summer, the Coconut Vodka Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
7. Airmail Cocktail
The Airmail Cocktail is a classic drink that has stood the test of time for a reason. This unique cocktail combines the flavors of gold rum, honey, lime juice, and champagne to create a well-balanced drink that is both sweet and sour with a refreshing finish.
While the origins of the cocktail are unclear, the combination of spirits used in the Airmail Cocktail is unusual and difficult to distinguish. The addition of bitters adds a touch of bitterness to the drink, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a complex flavor profile. Overall, the Airmail Cocktail is a delightful drink that is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
8. Leprechaun's Green Gold
If you're looking for a festive cocktail to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, Leprechaun's Green Gold is a must-try. This Irish Whiskey-based cocktail is easy to make and features a touch of Creme de Menthe to turn the golden whiskey green without overpowering the flavor.
The sweetness of the Creme de Menthe pairs well with the light and sweet notes of Kavanagh Irish Whiskey, which won the Double Gold Medal in the San Francisco Spirits Competition.
What sets this cocktail apart is the use of large ice cubes, which can be shaped and smoothed for a more polished presentation.
Whether you're hosting a St. Patrick's Day party or simply looking for a festive drink to enjoy, Leprechaun's Green Gold is a delicious and easy option.
9. Hurricane Cocktail
The Hurricane Cocktail is a sweet and fruity drink made with light and gold rum, passion fruit syrup, grenadine, and citrus juices. Its beautiful orange-red hue comes from the passion fruit syrup and grenadine.
The drink was created during World War II when whiskey was scarce, and excess rum was used to create the cocktail. It's perfect for those who want to enjoy a tropical drink by the poolside or at a Tiki bar. The Hurricane Cocktail is a must-try for those who love rum-based cocktails.
10. Classic Daiquiri Cocktail
The Classic Daiquiri Cocktail is a simple yet elegant drink that has been a favorite for decades. Made with just three ingredients – gold rum, lime juice, and simple syrup – this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Unlike fruit daiquiris, the Classic Daiquiri Cocktail has a pure taste that allows you to savor the flavor of the rum. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good rum-based drink. So, if you're looking for a classic cocktail that is easy to make and delicious to drink, give the Classic Daiquiri Cocktail a try.
