Mccelland Cocktail

Pro tips

• Stir the drink with cold ice for 10–15 seconds to chill and dilute slightly, which mellows the spirits and integrates flavors.
• Use a quality sloe gin; its fruit-forward character is central to the drink's identity.
• Add the orange bitters last and stir gently to distribute evenly and avoid over-dilution.
• Serve in a pre-chilled glass to maintain the cocktail's temperature and mouthfeel.

Substitutions

• Sloe gin → Damson gin (if sloe unavailable; slightly different stone-fruit profile)
• Triple sec → Cointreau (premium option; smoother citrus)
• Triple sec → Dry curaçao (slightly less sweet, more herbal)

Storage & make-ahead

Cocktails are best consumed immediately after preparation. Store unopened bottles of sloe gin and triple sec in a cool, dark place for years.

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger or measuring cup

What is sloe gin and where can I find it?

Sloe gin is a liqueur made by infusing gin with sloe berries (blackthorn fruit), prized for its deep red color and plum-forward flavor. It's available at most liquor stores in the fortified wine or liqueur section.

Can I make this cocktail without triple sec?

Triple sec is essential for the drink's citrus structure, but you can substitute Cointreau (premium triple sec) or Curaçao for a slightly different flavor profile.

How should I serve the Mccelland?

Serve it as an aperitif in a coupe or cocktail glass, either chilled and stirred with ice or built in the glass over a single large ice cube.

Is this a gin-forward drink?

Yes, sloe gin forms the base at 1.5 oz, making it the dominant spirit, with triple sec and bitters providing balance and complexity.