The Tangerine Guaro is a bright, citrus-forward cocktail created by Elcielo Restaurant in Miami, FL. Featuring Bacan Guaro, a super-premium, sugar-free Colombian aguardiente made from organic sugar cane, organic star anise and purified water. Fresh tangerine juice brings natural citrus brightness, while vanilla syrup adds a soft, rounded sweetness. A touch of lime juice balances the profile with acidity, making the cocktail refreshing and well-structured. Served in a chilled martini glass and garnished with caramelized tangerine or mandarin, it’s a drink that feels both modern and rooted in tradition, ideal for riverside sipping in warm weather.
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Tasting Notes
The Tangerine Guaro is bright, refreshing, and layered with citrus and vanilla. Bacan Guaro forms the base, offering a smooth, slightly sweet spirit that highlights the fresh tangerine juice. Lime juice adds a tart edge, keeping the drink balanced and lively, while vanilla syrup softens the citrus with a warm, rounded sweetness. Served in a chilled martini glass, the drink feels both crisp and polished. The garnish of caramelized tangerine or mandarin segments adds aroma and visual appeal, while the optional spicy black salt rim introduces contrast, making each sip vibrant and memorable.
Equipment and Glassware
Preparing the Tangerine Guaro requires a few essential tools. A cocktail shaker is key for combining the guaro, juices, and syrup with ice, ensuring the drink is both chilled and well blended. A strainer provides a smooth pour into the serving glass, while a bar jigger ensures precise measurements. A paring knife and small kitchen torch may be helpful for preparing a caramelized tangerine garnish, though fresh mandarin segments work just as well. For serving, a chilled martini or coupe glass showcases the drink’s golden-orange color beautifully. A shallow dish is useful if applying the optional spicy salt rim.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bacan Guaro 29
- 2 oz Tangerine juice
- 1 oz Vanilla syrup
- 0.75 oz Lime juice
Instructions
- Add ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and shake very well.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass garnished with a caramelized tangerine or mandarin segments.
- Optional: Coat a portion of the glass with a spicy black salt.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed tangerine juice for the brightest flavor.
- Chill the martini glass before serving to maintain temperature.
- Adjust vanilla syrup to balance sweetness against citrus tartness.
- Caramelize tangerine slices with a kitchen torch for a professional garnish.
- Apply the spicy black salt to only part of the rim for contrast.
- Shake firmly to ensure the vanilla syrup integrates smoothly with the juices.
When to Serve
The Tangerine Guaro is a cocktail that suits warm-weather occasions, especially outdoor gatherings or terrace settings. Its citrus-forward profile makes it ideal for sunny afternoons, beachside parties, or tropical-themed events. The bright flavors also pair beautifully with light appetizers, seafood, or grilled dishes. During evenings, it can serve as a pre-dinner cocktail that sets a refreshing tone. The optional spicy black salt rim adds a playful twist, making it well-suited for more adventurous drinkers. Whether served casually or as a feature drink at an upscale event, it always feels refreshing and celebratory.
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Ingredients
- 2 oz Bacan Guaro 29
- 2 oz Tangerine juice
- 1 oz Vanilla syrup
- 0.75 oz Lime juice
Instructions
- Add ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and shake very well.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass garnished with a caramelized tangerine or mandarin segments.
- Optional: Coat a portion of the glass with a spicy black salt.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed tangerine juice for the most vibrant flavor.
- If vanilla syrup isn’t available, substitute with regular simple syrup and a drop of vanilla extract.
- A half-rim of black salt adds contrast without overwhelming the drink.