Sweet and Sour Martini with a Twist: A Cuban Bitters Cocktail Recipe

Looking for a sweet and sour martini with a unique twist? This Cuban bitters cocktail recipe is a refreshing, tart treat that elevates a classic Lemon Drop Martini. The addition of El Guapo™ Cuban Bitters gives this drink a perfectly balanced flavor profile that's both complex and delicious.

What Makes This the Best Sweet and Sour Martini?

Unlike a traditional Lemon Drop, this sweet and sour martini uses a special blend of Meyer lemon and orange juices, along with El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial, for a richer citrus flavor. The El Guapo™ Cuban Bitters add a subtle, herbal bitterness that cuts through the sweetness and ties the cocktail together. This is a great choice if you love a balanced and not-too-sweet drink.

Ingredients for Your Citrus Martini

• 1 oz El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial
• 1 tsp El Guapo™ Cuban Bitters
• .5 oz freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
• .5 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1.5 oz vodka (we used St. Roch, but any quality vodka will do)
• Sugar, Meyer lemon peel or yard flowers, for garnish

How to Make the Cuban Bitters Cocktail

This recipe is simple to follow and delivers a high-quality, memorable cocktail every time.

1. Rim a martini glass with sugar. Rim the glass with water first to help the sugar adhere.
2. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial, bitters, juices, and vodka.
3. Shake until well chilled.
4. Strain the liquid into your prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a Meyer lemon peel or yard flowers before serving.

Pro Tips for Your Cocktail

For a more prominently bitter martini, add a tablespoon of El Guapo™ Cuban Bitters as opposed to a teaspoon. This will create a bolder flavor profile.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this martini sweet and sour?

The combination of fresh lemon and orange juices provides the sour element, while the El Guapo™ Lemon Cordial balances it with a hint of sweetness. The bitters add complexity to the flavor profile.

Why use Cuban bitters?

Cuban bitters have a unique blend of flavors, including allspice and star anise, which pairs well with citrus and adds a layer of depth to the cocktail.

Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, you can. Meyer lemons are slightly sweeter than regular lemons, so if you use a regular lemon, you might want to adjust the amount of cordial to your taste.