Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic20.6% ABV5 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 5 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Rich Food, Charcuterie, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierCitrusGarnish
- 0.75 ozDubonnetModifier
- 0.75 ozTriple SecModifier
- 0.75 ozBrandyBase
- 0.75 ozFresh Lemon JuiceCitrus
- 1 garnishOrange TwistGarnish
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirGarnish
- Stir with ice and strain into chilled cocktail glass.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Add orange twist.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.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
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 โ cognac is the safest neutral choice.CitrusCitrus juice changes acidity, while citrus peel or twist mainly changes aroma. Lemon is sharp and bright, lime is sharper and more aromatic, orange is sweeter, and grapefruit adds bitterness. If you swap citrus, adjust sweetness slowly.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a The Crux?
- The The Crux is a cocktail made with 5 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 20.6%. A standard serving contains approximately 156 calories.
- What does a The Crux taste like?
- The Crux has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Sweet, Orange, Lemon. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a The Crux?
- The Crux pairs well with Rich Food, Charcuterie, Cheese. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a The Crux?
- The The Crux has an ABV of approximately 20.6%. That's approximately 1.03 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 156 calories, 7.9g sugar, 10.9g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a The Crux typically served?
- The Crux is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a The Crux?
- If you enjoy The Crux, 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 The Crux at home?
- Yes. The The Crux uses 5 ingredients, making it straightforward 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 The Crux 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.

