When it comes to liqueurs there are a ton of them to choose from and many of them have similar taste profiles. Such is the case with Triple Sec, Cointreau, and Grand Marnier, which all are orange liqueurs that are typically sipped after a meal or are used in mixed drinks. So what’s the difference between them?
Cointreau
Cointreau is actually a triple sec and the easiest way to differentiate Cointreau from other liqueurs is that it comes in a square-sided amber bottle. The liqueur inside is colorless and is 40 percent alcohol by volume. The label on the bottle reads in French, Une harnonie douce subtile et naturelle des ecorces d’orange douces et ameres, which translates to “a subtle and natural sweet harmony of sweet and bitter orange peels.” The liqueur is blendable and mixes well with clear spirits, brandies, and darker, aged liquors.
Triple Sec
Many brands make Triple Sec, which results in the price and quality differing between brands. Alcohol by volume for Triple Sec ranges from 15 to 40 percent and it’s usually sweeter and more syrupy than Cointreau. The taste also varies and it can have an orange zest flavor or can taste like fake orange gum.
Grand Marnier
Grand Marnier comes in a long-necked bottle with a vertical red ribbon and recessed red-wax stamp. It’s alcohol volume is 40 perfect. The label reads that it’s made with 49 percent orange liqueur blended with 51 percent Cognac, which gives it a caramel color. Grand Marnier is spicier and more complex than the other two orange liquerurs. It’s also harder to mix than the other two, but blends well with darker or aged liqours like golden tequila, brandy, and whisky.
