Balm Cocktail Recipe

The Balm is a sophisticated yet easy-to-make cocktail that’s perfect for sipping. This tasty drink combines the rich, nutty flavors of dry sherry with the bright, citrusy notes of Cointreau and orange juice, all enhanced by the subtle spice of pimento dram.

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Unlike most sweet or fruity cocktails, The Balm has a more nuanced and complex taste. It works equally well as an aperitif before a meal or as a palate-cleansing accompaniment to dessert.

Tasting Notes

The dry sherry provides a rich almost savory base that gives the drink a velvety mouthfeel, while the Cointreau and orange juice lend a bright, citrusy zing. The pimento dram, a liqueur made from allspice berries, adds a subtle spice note that ties everything together.

When you raise the glass to drink, you’ll catch aromas of toasted nuts, orange zest, and a hint of warm spice. The first sip reveals a smooth, creamy texture, followed by a burst of citrus. The pimento dram then steps in, providing a gentle warmth that lingers pleasantly.

Key Ingredients

Most cocktail recipes are pretty flexible. And you can experiment with tweaking this one to your liking. But it’s got a perfect balance the way it is, so it’s worth trying the recipe just as it’s stated at least once before you start experimenting.

Dry Sherry

Dry sherry, such as Fino or Manzanilla, gives the cocktail a rich, nutty flavor profile. Look for a sherry that’s crisp and dry, with notes of toasted almonds and a slightly saline finish.

Cointreau

This triple-distilled spirit is made from sweet and bitter orange peels, and its vibrant flavor helps to balance the richness of the sherry.

Orange Juice

Fresh orange juice gives a juicy, tangy counterpoint to the other ingredients. Be sure to use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best results.

Pimento Dram

Pimento dram is a unique liqueur made from allspice berries. It lends a warm, spicy-sweet flavor to the drink along with a subtle complexity that ties the other flavors together.

Orange Bitters

A dash of orange bitters adds a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This drink is wonderful anytime. Serve it in an old-fashioned or rocks glass. The glass should be chilled before serving to ensure the drink stays cold and refreshing.

A simple orange twist is the perfect garnish, adding a burst of citrus aroma and a visually appealing touch to the drink. You can also experiment with other garnishes, such as a cinnamon stick or a few dashes of Angostura bitters, to add your own personal flair.

This drink makes a great choice for a sophisticated dinner party, where its complex flavors can be savored alongside a delicious meal. It’s also a wonderful option for a cozy night in.

And it couldn’t be easier to pair with foods. It’s a surprisingly food-friendly cocktail. Its nutty, citrusy notes pair beautifully with dishes that feature rich, creamy sauces, such as roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. It also complements seafood dishes, especially those with a touch of sweetness, like seared scallops or grilled shrimp.

For dessert, you could serve it with fruit-based treats, such as a citrus tart or a poached pear. Chocolate-based desserts work well, too.