The Gladiator Shot is an exhilarating drink that combines the nutty sweetness of amaretto with the fruity spiciness of Southern Comfort, all brightened by the bubbles of 7-Up and tangy orange juice.
The Gladiator cocktail follows the drop shot tradition akin to the Jager Bomb. This entails pouring liqueurs into a shot glass, which is then dropped into a larger glass filled with mixers, allowing you to “shoot” the entire drink.
In this instance, the liqueurs of choice are amaretto and Southern Comfort (SoCo), often referred to as a SoCo drop shot.
Exercise caution, however, as the unfixed shot glass has been known to pose a risk of chipping teeth over time.
Consider yourself forewarned. Alternatively, you can bypass this method and simply consume the shot followed by a chase of sparkling orange juice.
Whichever route you choose, the Gladiator cocktail promises an enjoyable drinking experience that’s delightful.
Gladiator Shot Ingredients
- Amaretto Liqueur (1/2 ounce / 15 ml): Adds a rich, almond-like sweetness and depth.
- Southern Comfort (1/2 ounce / 15 ml): Adds a unique blend of whiskey, fruits, and spices, contributing complexity and warmth.
- 7-Up (2 ounces / 60 ml): Provides a crisp, bubbly texture and a lemon-lime sweetness.
- Orange Juice (2 ounces / 60 ml): Offers a citrusy freshness that balances the sweetness of the liqueurs and soda.
Gladiator Shot Recipe
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients to streamline the mixing process.
- Combine Liqueurs in a Shot Glass: Pour the amaretto and Southern Comfort into a shot glass. The combination of these two liqueurs creates the flavorful base of the shot.
- Mix Soda and Juice in a Double Old-Fashioned Glass: In a separate double old-fashioned glass, combine the 7-Up and orange juice. This mixture serves as the refreshing backdrop to the potent shot.
- The Dramatic Drop: Drop the shot glass into the double old-fashioned glass filled with soda and juice. This action merges the ingredients in a dynamic and visually entertaining way.
- Enjoy the Drink: Immediately down the drink, enjoying the harmonious blend of flavors as they combine in a delightful explosion of taste.
Tips for the Best Gladiator Shot
- Chill Your Ingredients: For an extra refreshing shot, chill the liqueurs, soda, and juice beforehand. Cold ingredients enhance the drink’s crispness.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality amaretto to ensure the best flavor profile for your shot. Freshly squeezed orange juice can also make a significant difference in taste.
- Be Ready to Drink: The Gladiator Shot is meant to be enjoyed immediately after dropping the shot glass into the soda and juice mixture. Prepare your guests for the quick action to ensure everyone gets the full experience.
The Gladiator Shot
The Gladiator Shot is a testament to the joy of Slammers, where the process of making the drink is as enjoyable as tasting it.
Its unique blend of flavors, combined with the interactive element of dropping the shot glass, makes it a memorable choice for any occasion. By following this guide, you’ll be equipped to create a shot that’s a conversation starter, guaranteed to liven up any gathering.
Check out more of the best whisky shot recipes.
