Calories:~150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:~10g
Alcohol:~40%
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 7, 2024
The Red October cocktail is a fiery blend inspired by the cold war era, named after the famous fictional submarine in Tom Clancy's novel. It's a favorite among those who appreciate a strong, spicy kick in their drink, often enjoyed during fall or winter seasons.
The Red October is a potent, fiery concoction with a pronounced cinnamon spice flavor, underpinned by herbal notes from the Jagermeister. It's a bold, warming drink with a complex flavor profile that includes sweet, spicy, and slightly minty undertones.
The 151 Proof Rum is a powerhouse that brings a high-octane kick to the Red October. Why this much? 0.5 oz is enough to ignite the potency without setting you ablaze. Less, and you might not feel the boost; more, and you risk turning the cocktail into a fireball.
Goldschlager adds a spicy yet sweet cinnamon layer with a touch of luxury from its real gold flakes. Skipping it will take away the signature glitter and the warming sensation, which cannot be completely replicated, but cinnamon schnapps could be a cozy alternative.
This herbal liqueur is like the composer of an orchestra, bringing harmony with its complex blend of herbs. If left out, you'd miss the depth it offers. No Jäger? Try a similar herbal liquer, like Becherovka, for a twist on the herbal notes.
Cinnamon Liqueur pumps up the heat in the Red October. It's sweet, it's spicy, it's the party in your mouth. Miss out on it, and the drink loses some zeal. A possible swap? Fireball Whisky, for more of a cinnamon kick with a smooth whiskey backdrop.
Lastly, the Rumple Minze whips in a cool breeze of peppermint, contrasting with the heat of the other ingredients. It's like a minty slap in the face—in a good way. No Rumple Minze? Go for another peppermint schnapps, but brace for a less intense minty touch.
To craft the Red October, you'll need to:
A robust cheese platter, featuring aged cheddar and blue cheese, can balance the intense flavors of the Red October cocktail by offering both creamy and sharp notes.
Indulge in some dark chocolate with a high cocoa content. The bitterness of the chocolate complements the spicy and herbal notes of the cocktail.
Go for grilled meats like barbecue ribs or a spicy sausage. The charred flavors marry well with the warmth and spice that Red October delivers.
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Replace Goldschläger with Hot Cinnamon Schnapps for an extra kick. The rest remains the same, but prepare for a spicier voyage. This twist is for those who seek a little more fire in their belly and a warm hug to their taste buds.
Swap out Rumple Minze for Crème de Menthe for a fresher, sweeter mint experience, but less of the peppermint punch. This variation offers a gentle mint wave rather than a tsunami, creating a delightfully different dynamic.
Exchange 151 Proof Rum with Coconut Rum and transport yourself to tropical shores. The nutty, tropical sweetness of the coconut will soften the sharp edges of the cocktail. This twist adds a vacation vibe, perfect for those who dream of sandy beaches and sunscreen scents.
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingIf you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
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The Red October is best served in a chilled cocktail glass. No additional dilution from ice in the glass is recommended to preserve its strong and spicy flavors.
Yes, the Red October can be batched by multiplying the ingredient measures by the number of desired servings, mixing it in a large container. Serve it chilled and ensure you stir it well before serving.
While typically favored in colder seasons due to its warming properties, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy it year-round. Be mindful that it is quite strong and may not be as refreshing as other summer cocktails.
The Red October has a notable spicy profile due to its cinnamon and herbal ingredients, and may not be the first choice for those who prefer sweet flavors. However, the cocktail can be modified to suit sweet palates with adjusted ingredients.
Its bold flavors would pair well with savory appetizers such as smoked meats, nuts, or cheeses that can stand up to its strong and spicy notes.
You could dilute the cocktail slightly with a splash of club soda, or adjust the ratio of the stronger spirits downward, replacing the volume with a milder ingredient like apple cider for a less intense drink.
Yes, the gold flakes in Goldschlager are a food-grade gold leaf, which is considered safe to consume in the small amounts found in the drink.
The Oatmeal Cookie cocktail is sweet, creamy, and rich in flavor. It has a smooth texture with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, giving it a warm and comforting taste. The combination of liqueurs creates a balanced sweetness that is not overly cloying.
Surfer on Acid has a unique and refreshing taste that combines sweet, sour, and tropical flavors. The sweetness of the pineapple juice is balanced by the tartness of the cranberry juice, while the coconut flavor from the Malibu rum adds a tropical twist. The Jägermeister adds a subtle herbal undertone, making this cocktail a well-rounded and enjoyable drink.
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