In the world of flavored liqueurs, Grand Marnier is in a class all its own. This cognac-based, orange liqueur is as synonymous with French luxury as the country’s famous vineyards and indulgent cuisine. At 40% ABV, it’s one of the booziest liqueurs on the market. The brand’s inventor, Louis-Alexandre Marnier Lapostolle, was a winemaker by trade. In the late 20th century, he worked in his father-in-law’s Parisian distillery. There, he began concocting a blend of cognac with exotic fruits, most specifically, the bitter orange. Fast-forward 100 years and the Campari Group purchases a majority share of Grand Marnier for over $750 million.

The cognac in Grand Marnier starts with French white wines that are double-distilled and then aged in oak casks. The final product is blended with the carefully crafted orange flavor, resulting in a balance of tropical sweetness and woody spice. Grand Marnier is the not-so-secret sauce in some of the best-known cocktails, from margaritas to Cosmos to sidecars.

You can, however, sip this delicately orange treat on its own sans ice. Grand Marnier is often served in dessert sauces as well due to its velvety sweetness. Today, you can find Grand Marnier’s classic product, Cordon Rouge in liquor stores around the world. There are also limited releases like the super-pricey Cuvee Quintessence, made from exclusive, vintage cognacs. Try it out with Drizly today!