Witches Brew

The Witches Brew is a fun Halloween cocktail that mixes Midori, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice into a colorful and refreshing drink. The melon flavor of Midori shines through, while Cointreau adds a smooth orange taste that blends in perfectly. Fresh lemon juice brings a crisp tartness that balances the sweetness, making each sip light and bright. A cherry garnish not only adds a touch of sweetness but also gives the drink a festive look. This cocktail is simple to prepare, great for parties, and sure to be a favorite at any Halloween gathering.

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Tasting Notes

The Witches Brew is a striking cocktail that balances citrus brightness with fruity sweetness. Midori provides its signature melon flavor and distinctive green color, giving the drink its eye-catching character. Cointreau adds orange notes that round out the sweetness and complement the melon base. Lemon juice brings sharp acidity that ties the flavors together and keeps the drink refreshing rather than overly sweet. The cherry garnish introduces a hint of richness while also giving the presentation a dramatic contrast. Altogether, this cocktail feels playful yet well-structured, offering a refreshing mix that works beautifully for festive occasions.

Equipment and Glassware

Preparing the Witches Brew requires only a few basic bar tools, making it simple to put together. A cocktail shaker is necessary for thoroughly mixing the Midori, Cointreau, and lemon juice while chilling the drink properly. A fine strainer ensures a clean pour without ice shards, which helps maintain a smooth texture in the glass. Serving in a chilled cocktail glass enhances both the visual appeal and the drinking experience, as it keeps the cocktail cool and crisp. A garnish pick or small skewer can also be useful for presenting the cherry garnish in a neat, polished way.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Midori
• 1.5 oz Cointreau
• 1 oz Lemon Juice
• Cherry for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add the Midori, Cointreau, and lemon juice to the shaker.
• Shake well until the mixture is well-chilled.
• Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
• Garnish with a cherry.

Pro Tips

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best balance of tartness.
• Shake with firm, quick motions to properly chill and dilute.
• Chill the cocktail glass in the freezer before serving.
• Garnish with a maraschino or Luxardo cherry for richer flavor.
• If you prefer less sweetness, reduce Midori slightly and increase lemon juice.
• For a spookier theme, freeze cherries in advance and add them as ice.
• A dash of soda water can lighten the drink without altering its profile.
• Serve immediately to keep the flavors crisp and fresh.

When to Serve

The Witches Brew is especially fitting for Halloween gatherings or themed parties where presentation is just as important as flavor. Its striking green color instantly sets the mood, making it a fun centerpiece at seasonal events. Beyond holidays, it works well at casual get-togethers, offering a drink that is both refreshing and approachable. The mix of citrus and melon ensures it appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a reliable choice for group settings. Its light character also means it can be served as a pre-dinner cocktail or as part of a festive late-night menu.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Midori: The original Japanese melon liqueur, known for its vivid color and sweet melon taste.
• Cointreau: A premium orange liqueur with balanced sweetness and citrus notes.
• Lemon Juice: Always use freshly squeezed juice rather than bottled for the best flavor.
• Cherry Garnish: Luxardo cherries for richness or standard maraschino cherries for a classic look.

Similar Cocktails

• Citrus Cloud
• Cherry Aperol Margarita
• The Sunflower
• Grapefruit Sunrise
• Matcha Kiwi Cocktail