Cocktail connoisseurs know you can’t go wrong with a classic: the Manhattan, with its complex sweetness; the old fashioned, with its herbal undertones; the bittersweet Negroni.
Then there’s the margarita: tangy lime and the sweetness of orange liqueur, paired with the distinctive strength of tequila. And while there are several twists on the traditional version, our favourite creations heat up the ice-cold drink with a bit of spice.
Here’s a taste.
Hualalai: Green Flash
With a blend of jalapeños and coconut cream, the Green Flash is a spicy yet refreshing cocktail that reflects Four Seasons Resort Hualalai‘s unique scenery and oceanfront locale: In the evening, as the sun hits the horizon, it creates a green flash of light.
With fresh basil and a touch of heat from the jalapeños, you can enjoy a taste of the tropics whether sitting in the sand or reminiscing about a past beach vacation.
Denver: Strawberry Habañero Margarita
Strawberries traditionally pair well with spice, especially jalapeño. But mixologists at Four Seasons Hotel Denver selected the habañero pepper to kick it up a notch.
The sweetness of the strawberries balances the heat of the pepper; add a healthy dose of Patrón Silver to deliver just the right flavour.
Langkawi: Assam Java Margarita
Mixologists at Four Seasons Resort Langkawi combined traditional flavours of Asian cuisine in the sweet yet spicy Assam Java Margarita. Its distinguishing ingredient? Tamarind, which gives the cocktail a deep red colour and a sweet but tart flavour.
Add a little heat with chilli powder and you’ve crafted a perfectly balanced cocktail, with the right level of spice in each sip.
Jimbaran Bay: Chilli Maryrita
Sambal is a staple in Indonesian cuisine – the spicy chilli sauce is typically served with every meal. Mixologists at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay wanted to create sambal-style heat in a drink while still keeping it light and refreshing.
The result: The Chilli Maryrita, a spicy cocktail balanced with vanilla syrup, passion fruit mix, rosemary and lemon juice – a taste of the tropics with every sip.
Baku: Smoked Blackberry Margarita
For the Smoked Blackberry Margarita, the idea of heat is more literal: Mixologists at Four Seasons Hotel Baku smoke the cocktail over cherry wood after the ingredients are mixed together for an unexpected aroma and taste, with hints of sour, sage, sweetness and smoke.
Paired with refreshing blackberries and citrus, it’s perfect for a hot summer day.
Editor’s note: While some of these cocktails may no longer be listed on the menu, most can be made upon special request.
