The Black Death cocktail is bold, intense, and packed with flavor—perfect for those who enjoy a strong, mysterious drink with a hint of sweetness. It’s a striking mix of vodka, black sambuca, and citrus, creating a deep, dark cocktail that’s as intriguing as its name. Whether you’re looking for something adventurous or just love a well-balanced, spirit-forward drink, this one’s worth a try.
Black Death
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
- 1 oz (30 ml) black sambuca (adds a rich licorice flavor and deep color)
- 1 oz (30 ml) triple sec (for a touch of citrusy sweetness)
- 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice (brightens up the drink and balances the bold flavors)
- Ice cubes (for chilling and serving)
Glass: A highball glass works best, but a Collins glass is a great alternative.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Pour in vodka, black sambuca, triple sec, and fresh lime juice.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled—about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lime wedge, if you’d like.
- Enjoy responsibly!
Tip: For the best flavor, always use fresh lime juice instead of bottled. It makes a big difference!
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Since this is a shaken cocktail, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- If you want to prep in advance for a party, mix the vodka, black sambuca, and triple sec ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, shake with ice and fresh lime juice.
Pairing Suggestions
The bold, slightly sweet flavors of the Black Death cocktail go well with:
- Spicy foods – The strong licorice and citrus notes balance the heat of spicy dishes like buffalo wings or spicy tacos.
- Grilled meats – A smoky steak or grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the cocktail’s boldness.
- Dark chocolate – The bittersweet depth of dark chocolate contrasts nicely with the drink’s sweetness.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to mix things up? Try these:
- Swap vodka for rum – It adds a deeper, slightly sweeter kick.
- Use regular sambuca instead of black sambuca – This lightens the licorice flavor if you prefer something milder.
- Replace triple sec with Cointreau – For a richer, more refined citrus taste.
Looking for a twist? Here are a few fun variations:
Black Death Sour
- Ingredients: Vodka, black sambuca, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup.
- How to make it: Shake with ice, strain into a rocks glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.
Black Death Margarita
- Ingredients: Tequila, black sambuca, triple sec, lime juice.
- How to make it: Shake with ice, strain into a salt-rimmed glass, and garnish with a lime wedge.
Black Death Martini
- Ingredients: Gin, black sambuca, dry vermouth.
- How to make it: Stir with ice, strain into a martini glass, and garnish with an olive or lemon twist.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Swap the spirits for blackcurrant juice and soda water. Add a splash of lime juice for a refreshing, booze-free twist.
Helpful Bartender Tips
- Chill your glass beforehand – It keeps the cocktail colder for longer.
- Shake hard! – This ensures all the flavors blend beautifully and the drink is properly chilled.
- Use high-quality spirits – Since this cocktail is spirit-forward, better ingredients make a noticeable difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Black Death cocktail taste like?
It’s bold, slightly sweet, and has a deep licorice undertone from the black sambuca, balanced by citrusy brightness from the lime and triple sec.
Why is it called the Black Death?
The name comes from the 14th-century plague, referencing the cocktail’s dark color and strong kick.
What’s the best glass for serving?
A highball glass is ideal, but a Collins glass works too.
Can I make it less sweet?
Yes! Reduce the triple sec or use a drier orange liqueur like Cointreau.
What if I don’t like licorice flavors?
Try replacing black sambuca with regular sambuca for a milder taste, or swap it for a dark spiced rum for a completely different twist.
This cocktail has been one of my go-to bold drinks for nights when I want something strong and flavorful. Try it out, and let me know how you tweak it to make it your own!
