Blue Moon Cosmo

Instructions

1. Chill your Martini glass by filling it with ice and water or placing it in the freezer for a few minutes.

2. Fill your shaker with ice cubes.

3. Add the vodka, Blue Curaçao, fresh lime juice, and white cranberry juice to the shaker.

4. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until the shaker feels well-chilled.

5. Discard the ice from the chilled Martini glass.

6. Double strain the mixture from the shaker into the prepared Martini glass to ensure no ice shards or lime pulp get through.

7. Garnish with an orange peel, expressing the oils over the drink before placing it on the rim or dropping it in.

Trivia

• What is a Blue Moon Cosmo?

  A Blue Moon Cosmo is a modern variation of the classic Cosmopolitan cocktail. It gets its signature vibrant blue colour and distinct orange notes from Blue Curaçao liqueur, which replaces the traditional Cointreau or Triple Sec.

• What does a Blue Moon Cosmo taste like?

  The Blue Moon Cosmo offers a refreshing and balanced flavour profile. It's primarily citrus-forward due to the lime juice and Blue Curaçao (which has an orange flavour), with a slight tartness from the white cranberry juice and a clean finish from the vodka. It's less sweet than some other colourful cocktails.

• What's the difference between a Blue Moon Cosmo and a regular Cosmo?

  The main differences are the colour and the orange liqueur used. A traditional Cosmo is pink and uses Cointreau or Triple Sec, while the Blue Moon Cosmo is bright blue and uses Blue Curaçao. This swap gives the Blue Moon a slightly different orange flavour profile alongside its striking appearance.

• Why use white cranberry juice in a Blue Moon Cosmo?

  White cranberry juice is preferred in a Blue Moon Cosmo because it doesn't significantly alter the blue colour imparted by the Blue Curaçao. Regular red cranberry juice would mix with the blue to create a purple or murky hue, detracting from the 'Blue Moon' visual appeal.

• Can I make a Blue Moon Cosmo without a shaker?

  While a shaker is ideal for chilling and properly diluting the cocktail, you could stir the ingredients vigorously with ice in a mixing glass or sturdy jar and then strain it. However, shaking provides the best aeration and chill, crucial for a Cosmo's texture.

• What is the best garnish for a Blue Moon Cosmo?

  An orange peel or twist is an excellent garnish for a Blue Moon Cosmo. It complements the orange flavour of the Blue Curaçao, and expressing the oils adds a lovely aroma. A lime wedge or wheel is also a suitable alternative, echoing the lime juice in the drink.