There’s something deeply cozy and charming about the Quebec cocktail. It’s got that smooth, slightly sweet, and citrusy thing going on-with just a touch of warmth from bitters and maple syrup. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re curled up on a crisp fall evening or need a simple, elegant sipper for a dinner party, this one’s a keeper.
Quebec
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Old-Fashioned or rocks glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin – go for something with bold botanical notes
– ½ oz (15 ml) pure maple syrup – the real stuff makes a difference
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice – freshly squeezed is best
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Ice cubes
– Apple slice – for garnish
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, maple syrup, lemon juice, and bitters.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake for about 15 seconds. You want the outside of the shaker to feel nice and cold.
- Strain into an Old-Fashioned glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a thin apple slice right on top or perched on the rim.
Tips & Notes
– Use a chilled glass if you can-it keeps the drink crisp longer. Just pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before mixing.
– Choose a quality gin. Something with a strong juniper or citrus profile works beautifully here.
– Don’t skimp on the maple syrup. It’s the heart of this cocktail and gives it that unmistakable Canadian flair.
– If your lemon is super tart, you can dial the juice back to ¼ oz for a slightly sweeter sip.
Make-Ahead Option
You can mix a larger batch ahead of time (just leave out the ice). Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir or shake with ice and pour.
Storage
If you’ve got leftovers from a batch (unlikely, but hey), cover and refrigerate. Use within 1 day for best flavor. Avoid storing with ice-it’ll dilute the drink.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs like a dream with:
– A small charcuterie board-think smoked meats and sharp cheeses.
– Apple or pumpkin pie. The maple and bitters complement the spices perfectly.
– Savory appetizers like mini quiches or roasted nuts.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails-this one. It’s mellow but flavorful and feels just fancy enough without being fussy.
Swaps & Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
– No maple syrup? Try honey or agave nectar, though the flavor will be slightly different.
– Out of lemon? Lime juice works in a pinch, but it’ll add a sharper tang.
– Gin not your thing? Vodka gives a cleaner taste, or try dark rum for a deeper, cozy vibe.
Quebec Cocktail Variations
Apple Cider Quebec
– Swap the lemon juice for apple cider. Adds a soft, fruity sweetness.
Spiced Quebec
– Infuse your maple syrup with cinnamon or star anise before mixing. Warm, festive, and great for winter.
Winter Quebec
– Use dark rum instead of gin, and add a tiny pinch of ground clove. Think fireside sipping.
Virgin Quebec (Mocktail)
– Skip the gin. Use sparkling water or apple cider for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version. Still delicious and still Canadian at heart.
FAQs
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by the number of guests and mix in a large pitcher. Keep chilled and serve over ice.
Is it sweet or sour?
It’s a little of both. The maple syrup adds sweetness, while the lemon juice gives it a bright, tart edge.
When’s the best time to enjoy it?
It shines in the fall, but honestly, it’s a year-round kind of drink. Great for cool evenings or relaxed gatherings.
Is it a healthy cocktail?
Compared to cream-based or overly sugary cocktails, it’s a lighter choice-especially if you use a moderate amount of maple syrup.
What food should I avoid with it?
Skip super spicy dishes-they can overpower the cocktail’s more delicate flavors.
Can I make it non-alcoholic?
Absolutely. Just use sparkling water or apple cider in place of gin and keep the rest the same. It’s refreshing and still captures the essence of the original.
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The Quebec cocktail is a simple yet elegant drink that celebrates some of the best Canadian flavors. It’s easy to make, easy to love, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday party or enjoying a quiet night in, it’s one of those cocktails you’ll come back to again and again.
