Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge is the benchmark orange liqueur — a blend of Cognac and distilled bitter orange essence that has been made to the same formula since 1880.
What separates Grand Marnier from ordinary triple sec is the base: rather than a neutral spirit, it is built on genuine Cognac, which gives it a depth, weight, and oak-touched warmth that lighter orange liqueurs lack. Distilled essence of bitter Citrus bigaradia oranges layers over that Cognac base for the signature orange-zest aroma and a palate that is sweet but balanced, not cloying.
It is equally at home sipped neat or over ice as an after-dinner pour, flamed over a dessert, or anchoring cocktails — the Cadillac Margarita, the Sidecar, the B-52, and Grand Marnier’s own Grand Cosmopolitan all rely on it. At 40% ABV it carries real spirit structure into a drink.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Bitter orange zest and candied citrus with subtle pear and Cognac oak.
- Palate: Big and rounded — sweet orange, vanilla, and warm Cognac depth.
- Finish: Long and warming with orange and oak lingering.
Specs
- Style: Cognac & orange liqueur
- Origin: France
- Base: Cognac and bitter orange essence
- ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
- Size: 750ml
Browse more liqueurs at Wooden Cork.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between Grand Marnier and Cointreau? Grand Marnier is built on a Cognac base, giving it a warmer, oak-touched, fuller body. Cointreau is a clear triple sec on a neutral spirit base — lighter, drier, and more purely citrus. Grand Marnier is richer; Cointreau is crisper.
- Can I use Grand Marnier in a Margarita? Yes — substituting Grand Marnier for triple sec makes a Cadillac Margarita, adding Cognac depth and a rounder orange character.
- How do you serve Grand Marnier? Neat or over ice as an after-dinner liqueur, in classic cocktails like the Sidecar and B-52, or warmed and flamed over desserts such as crêpes Suzette.
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