A refreshing twist on classic cocktails brings together the smoothness of cognac with the bright flavors of lemonade. This blend creates a perfect drink for warm afternoons or elegant evening gatherings.
The simple mix of 2 ounces of cognac with 4 ounces of fresh lemonade makes a balanced cocktail that tastes both refined and approachable.
Many people think cognac is just for sipping neat, but this drink proves it mixes well with casual ingredients. The sweet and tart notes of lemonade bring out the best in cognac’s rich taste, creating a drink that works for both new and experienced cocktail fans.
Cognac & Lemonade Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Highball glass
- Cocktail shaker
- Ice cube tray
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Bar spoon
- Citrus juicer
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 oz cognac
- 4 oz fresh lemonade
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Lemon wheel for garnish
- Optional: 1-2 mint leaves
Fresh lemonade recipe:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 cups water
Instructions
- Fill the highball glass with ice cubes until 3/4 full.
- Pour 2 oz cognac into the glass using a jigger.
- Add 4 oz fresh lemonade and stir gently with a bar spoon for 10 seconds.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and mint leaves if desired.
For fresh lemonade:
- Mix sugar with 1 cup hot water until dissolved
- Add 3 cups cold water
- Stir in fresh lemon juice
- Chill before using
Notes
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Tasting Notes
This refreshing cocktail combines the rich warmth of cognac with bright citrus notes. The smooth, oak-aged spirit brings hints of vanilla and dried fruit to the mix.
Fresh lemonade adds a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The citrus complements the cognac’s natural orange and apricot undertones.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Sweet vanilla and caramel
- Orange zest and dried apricot
- Bright lemon
- Light oak
- Honey
The drink starts sweet and finishes with a gentle warmth. Its light amber color sparkles in the glass, making it both pretty and tasty.
Ice helps blend the flavors while keeping the drink cool and crisp. The mix creates a smooth texture that’s easy to sip.
This cocktail works well in both warm and cool weather. The cognac provides comfort while the lemonade keeps it light and fresh.
Substitutes
You can replace cognac with brandy in this cocktail. Any VS or VSOP brandy works well as a budget-friendly option.
No cognac or brandy? Try bourbon or dark rum instead. These spirits add similar warm, oaky notes to the drink.
For a non-alcoholic version, mix apple juice with a splash of white grape juice. This combo mimics cognac’s fruity elements.
Want to skip the lemonade? Mix equal parts lemon juice and simple syrup as a substitute. Or use store-bought sour mix in a pinch.
Pro tip: When using fresh lemon juice, add an extra 1/4 ounce of simple syrup to match the sweetness of traditional lemonade.
Quick Substitution Guide:
- Cognac → Brandy, bourbon, or dark rum
- Lemonade → Lemon juice + simple syrup
- Store-bought lemonade → Fresh lemon juice + water + sugar
- Alcoholic → Non-alcoholic: Apple juice + white grape juice
Each substitute creates a unique flavor profile while keeping the drink balanced and refreshing.
