The Always Sunny cocktail is an intriguing drink that marries the warmth of ginger with the crispness of pisco, the tartness of lemon, and the earthy sweetness of turmeric, all crowned with the bubbles of prosecco.
This drink is a toast to the brighter side of life, offering a refreshing sip that sparkles with complexity and zest.
Here’s a guide on how to make the Always Sunny cocktail, including how to prepare your own turmeric simple syrup.
Always Sunny Cocktail Ingredients:
- The King’s Ginger Liqueur (1 1/2 ounces / 45 ml): A spicy and robust liqueur that adds a fiery kick and depth.
- BarSol Puro Quebranta Pisco (1/2 ounce / 15 ml): A clear Peruvian grape brandy that introduces a floral and slightly woody note.
- Lemon Juice (3/4 ounce / 22.5 ml, freshly squeezed): Offers a bright, acidic balance to the sweetness of the liqueur and syrup.
- Turmeric Simple Syrup (1/2 ounce / 15 ml): Brings an earthy sweetness and a golden hue to the cocktail.
- Prosecco (chilled): To top, adding a celebratory fizz and lightness.
- Garnish: Not specified, but a lemon twist or a sprig of fresh mint could enhance the presentation and aroma.
Always Sunny Cocktail Recipe:
- Prepare Turmeric Simple Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric, 1/3 cup of freshly peeled and chopped turmeric, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. The combination of ground and fresh turmeric infuses the syrup with a potent flavor and vibrant color. After simmering, strain the mixture through cheesecloth to remove the solids. Store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
- Mix the Cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour 45 ml (1 1/2 ounces) of The King’s Ginger Liqueur, 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of BarSol Puro Quebranta Pisco, 22.5 ml (3/4 ounce) of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of the turmeric simple syrup. The ginger and turmeric not only complement each other in flavor but also contribute to the cocktail’s distinctive character.
- Shake and Serve:
- Seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously until the mixture is thoroughly chilled. This step ensures that all the ingredients are well integrated and the cocktail is served cold.
- Strain the chilled cocktail into a chilled coupe glass, providing a smooth, elegant presentation.
- Top with Prosecco:
- Gently top the cocktail with chilled prosecco, adding just enough to fill the glass without overwhelming the other flavors. The prosecco introduces delightful bubbles that lift the drink.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Though not specified, consider garnishing the cocktail with a lemon twist or a sprig of fresh mint for an added touch of aroma and visual appeal.
Always Sunny Cocktail – In Detail
Turmeric, known for its earthy bitterness and striking color, is a staple in Asian and South Asian cuisine and a key ingredient in beverages such as Golden Milk Tea. Lately, savvy mixologists have started to use this spice in their cocktail recipes, making use of its distinctive yellow-orange color and unique flavor profile.
Aida Ramirez, who worked as a bartender at Decca in Louisville, Kentucky, developed the Always Sunny, a refreshing summer cocktail perfect for sipping in the sun. This drink starts with a base of ginger liqueur, enhanced with pisco, fresh lemon juice, and a turmeric-infused simple syrup, and is elegantly finished with a dash of sparkling prosecco.
Despite The King’s ginger liqueur being 82 proof, the Always Sunny remains a moderately potent beverage. The liqueur, infused with macerated ginger root and lemon oil, offers a vibrant, citrusy complement to the ginger’s sharpness. This blends seamlessly with the dry, fruity notes of Peruvian pisco. Fresh lemon juice provides a counterpoint to these flavors, and the homemade turmeric simple syrup adds a touch of earthy sweetness.
To prepare, simply shake the ingredients with ice, strain into a glass, and crown with prosecco. This addition gives the drink a refined fizz, mellowing the robust tastes and enhancing the cocktail’s visual appeal.
Enjoy the radiance of this vividly hued drink as you relax into its warm embrace.
Check out more prosecco cocktails and turmeric-based cocktails.