Sex on the Beach
The Sex on the Beach cocktail is a fruity and tropical libation known for its vibrant color and playful name. Originating in the 1980s, its exact origins are unclear, but it quickly became a popular choice at beach bars and resorts, offering a taste of summer with its blend of vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and orange juice.
Ingredients and Tools:
45 ml (1 1/2 oz) vodka
15 ml (1/2 oz) peach schnapps
45 ml (1 1/2 oz) cranberry juice
45 ml (1 1/2 oz) orange juice
Ice cubes
Highball glass
Cocktail shaker
Jigger
Straw
Preparation Steps:
Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
In a cocktail shaker, combine 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) of vodka, 15 ml (1/2 oz) of peach schnapps, 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) of cranberry juice, and 45 ml (1 1/2 oz) of orange juice.
Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill the ingredients.
Strain the mixture into the prepared highball glass over the ice.
Optionally, garnish with an orange slice or a maraschino cherry for a decorative touch.
Flavor Profile:
The Sex on the Beach cocktail offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, with the fruity notes of peach schnapps and cranberry juice complementing the citrusy undertones of orange juice. It's a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail that evokes images of sandy beaches and sunny skies.
Mixoloco - Mixology Tips:
Layering Technique: To achieve the iconic layered look of the Sex on the Beach cocktail, pour the cranberry juice into the glass first, followed by the vodka-peach schnapps-orange juice mixture. This creates distinct layers of color for a visually stunning presentation.
Choosing Cranberry Juice: Opt for 100% pure cranberry juice or cranberry juice cocktail with no added sugar for the best flavor.
Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: I vividly remember the first time I used freshly squeezed orange juice in a Sex on the Beach cocktail—the difference in flavor was incredible! Now, I make the extra effort to squeeze my own juice whenever possible.
Garnish with Care: I once garnished my Sex on the Beach cocktail with a pineapple wedge, and it added a delightful tropical touch. Don't hesitate to get creative with your garnishes!