Flor de Jerez

The Flor de Jerez is a complex yet perfectly balanced cocktail created by bartender Joaquín Simó. It showcases the nutty, saline notes of amontillado sherry, enhanced by the rich funk of Jamaican rum. Apricot liqueur provides a stone fruit sweetness that is cut by fresh lemon juice, resulting in a drink that is elegant, aromatic, and deeply flavorful.
Flor de Jerez

Preparation

Preparation time: 4 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

This drink is a modern classic cocktail, firmly established in the craft cocktail scene. It is structurally a sour, balancing a spirit base with citrus and a sweetening element. It's often appreciated by connoisseurs of sherry and rum.

Serving

Served 'up' (without ice) in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass, this is a cold, moderately strong cocktail designed for sipping.
Serving size
Approximately 120 ml / 4 oz (before dilution)
Alcohol content
Around 20-25% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Coupe
Glass treatment
Chilled

Backstory

Created in 2011 by Joaquín Simó while at the famous New York bar Death & Co. The drink was Simó's successful attempt to create a sherry-forward cocktail that was still accessible and delicious, highlighting sherry's versatility. It has since become a staple in modern cocktail bars around the world.
Origin
New York, USA, 2011.

Flor de Jerez

The name translates from Spanish to "Flower of Jerez," referencing the sherry which comes from the Jerez region of Spain. It is not commonly known by other names, though its literal translation is sometimes used as a descriptor.
Original name
Flor de Jerez
Alternative name
Flower of Jerez

Characteristics overview

This cocktail presents a nutty and fruity flavor profile with a funky rum backbone, balanced between sweet and sour. It has a smooth texture and a beautiful golden color, suitable for enjoyment in any season.
Flavor
nutty, fruity, funky, complex, tangy, savory, slightly sweet
Aroma
apricot, toasted nuts, citrus, brown sugar
Taste balance
balanced, sour, sweet
Aftertaste
long, nutty, warming, clean
Fizziness
still, none
Color appearance
light amber, golden hue, clear
Texture
smooth, silky, crisp
Seasonality
refreshing, all-season

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor is moderately intense, led by sour and fruity notes, with a noticeable alcohol warmth and a subtle saline character from the sherry. It is not creamy, spicy, or carbonated.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

The cocktail requires amontillado sherry and Jamaican rum as its base, modified with apricot liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup.
  • Amontillado Sherry45 ml / 1.5 oz
    The key ingredient, provides nutty and saline notes.
  • Jamaican Rum30 ml / 1 oz
    A quality aged Jamaican rum is recommended for its distinctive 'funk'.
  • Apricot Liqueur22.5 ml / 0.75 oz
    Brands like Rothman & Winter or Marie Brizard work well.
  • Lemon Juice22.5 ml / 0.75 oz
    Must be freshly squeezed for best results.
  • Simple Syrup7.5 ml / 0.25 oz
    1:1 ratio of sugar to water. Adjust to taste based on your liqueur's sweetness.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

You will need a cocktail shaker, jigger for measuring, and a set of strainers to prepare this drink properly. A citrus juicer is essential for fresh juice.
  • Cocktail shaker for chilling and combining ingredients.
  • Jigger or measuring tool for accurate pouring.
  • Hawthorne strainer and fine mesh strainer for a smooth texture.
  • Citrus juicer for fresh lemon juice.

Instructions

The method involves shaking all ingredients with ice, then double-straining into a chilled coupe glass. The final step is garnishing with an expressed lemon twist for aroma.
1. Chill your coupe or Nick & Nora glass by filling it with ice or placing it in the freezer.
2. Combine the amontillado sherry, Jamaican rum, apricot liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker.
3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes, ensuring it's about two-thirds full.
4. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until the shaker is well-chilled.
5. Discard the ice from your chilled glass.
6. Double-strain the contents of the shaker into the chilled glass using a Hawthorne strainer and a fine-mesh strainer.
7. Cut a swath of lemon peel for the garnish. Express the oils over the surface of the drink by twisting the peel, then drop it into the glass.

Garnishing

A simple lemon twist is the classic garnish, adding aromatic citrus oils that complement the drink's flavors and brighten its presentation.
  • Lemon twist to express oils over the drink and place in the glass.

Dietary Information

This is an alcoholic beverage that is typically free from caffeine, dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, and gluten. It is generally suitable for vegetarians and vegans, though the sherry's fining agents can sometimes be non-vegan.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This cocktail has a moderate calorie and sugar content, primarily from the apricot liqueur and simple syrup. The total carbohydrate count is also in the moderate range for a cocktail.
Calories
Approximately 190-220 kcal / 795-920 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 12-15 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 10-13 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This drink is perfect as an aperitif before a meal, or as a featured cocktail at a sophisticated party or gathering. Its complex flavor profile makes it a great choice for impressing guests or for a quiet evening of sipping.
  • Pre-dinner drink
  • Cocktail party
  • Sophisticated gathering

Pairing suggestions

The nutty and savory notes of the drink pair wonderfully with Spanish tapas like Marcona almonds, olives, and Manchego cheese. It also complements the saltiness of a charcuterie board, making it an excellent aperitif.
  • Marcona almonds
  • Olives
  • Cured meats (charcuterie)
  • Manchego cheese

Flor de Jerez: The Sophisticated Flower of Sherry

The Flor de Jerez is a masterful modern cocktail that balances the complexity of amontillado sherry and Jamaican rum with the bright fruitiness of apricot and lemon. Created by Joaquín Simó at Death & Co., it has earned its place as a contemporary classic. It is a sophisticated, nutty, and tangy sour that is perfect for those looking to explore the world of sherry cocktails beyond simple highballs. Its balance and depth of flavor make it a memorable experience for any cocktail enthusiast.

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