Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic26.5% ABV2 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 2 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Cheese, Chocolate, Dessert
Ingredients & Tools
- 0.75 ozMaraschinoModifier
- 0.75 ozCherry-Flavored BrandyBase
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirGarnish
- Stir with ice and strain into cocktail glass.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Serve with a cherry.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.
Swap notes
Base spiritCognac is smooth and refined; armagnac is earthier and more rustic; calvados brings apple notes. Swapping within these still changes the flavour profile — cognac is the safest neutral choice.
GarnishA maraschino or cocktail cherry adds a sweet, fruity finish and a visual anchor. A fresh cherry is less sweet and more tart. An orange twist or peel swap will change the aroma but remove the fruit sweetness — the drink will feel drier as a result.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2?
- The Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 is a cocktail made with 2 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 26.5%. A standard serving contains approximately 135 calories.
- What does a Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 taste like?
- Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 has a flavour profile featuring Almond, Cherry, Dry, Floral. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2?
- Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 pairs well with Cheese, Chocolate, Desserts. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2?
- The Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 has an ABV of approximately 26.5%. That's approximately 0.66 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 135 calories, 12.2g sugar, 16.6g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 typically served?
- Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 is a popular choice for Dessert, Date Night. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2?
- If you enjoy Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 at home?
- Yes. The Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 uses 2 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Merry Widow Cocktail No. 2 with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.