Liqueurs & Other Spirits

Liqueurs are a type of alcoholic beverage that is made from distilled spirits, such as brandy or vodka, and flavored with fruits, herbs, spices, or cream. They typically contain between 15 and 60% alcohol by volume. Liqueurs are sweeter and more syrupy compared to spirits. Some common liqueurs include Baileys, Amaretto, and Kahlua. Liqueurs are meant to be enjoyed on their own or in cocktails. They are also often used as ingredients in baking or desserts. Because they are so sweet, liqueurs can be a great way to add some extra flavour to a dish without having to use too much sugar.

It all depends on the type of liqueur. For liqueurs that are cream-based or have a fruit flavour, it's usually best to drink them from a stemmed glass so that you can enjoy the aroma. A sweet liqueur like Bailey's is also best sipped from a stemmed glass to prevent the sweet liquid from coating your teeth and making them sticky. Meanwhile, for coffee-flavoured liqueurs like Tia Maria or Kahlúa, it's customary to drink them from a specially designed coffee mug with a long handle.

Yes, liqueurs can go off. Liqueurs are essentially high-proof spirits that have been sweetened and flavoured with fruits, herbs, or spices. As with all alcoholic beverages, liqueurs will eventually spoil if not stored properly. The alcohol in liqueurs acts as a preservative, but if the liqueur is exposed to too much air or heat it can become cloudy, develop a sour taste, or even start to ferment.