Have you ever had a amazing Margarita?  Have you ever ordered a dessert that was just too good for words?  Chances are there was a shared ingredient that made both of those choices out of this world.  Grand Marnier.  Pronounced Ma – hn – yay.

Grand Marnier was created in 1880 by Alexandre Marnier-Lapostolle.  It is made from a blend of true cognacs and distilled essence of bitter orange.

This is truly an elixir to be enjoyed at all times and in all things.  You can enjoy it Neat with a fine cigar after dinner and it’s what makes ‘Top Shelf’ Drinks ‘Top Shelf.’  Grand Marnier is also a keystone ingredient in countless desserts.  Visit their website for an extensive catalog of recipes.

When you enjoy Grand Marnier in it’s pure form, you savor every sip.  It will warm you from the inside out.  If I was trapped on the planet Hoth, I’d want a Lightsaber and a bottle of Grand Marnier in my survival kit.

To savor this elixir unaltered take a Snifter and simply pour.  Start with a depth of one index finger, two if you are of the female variety.  Using  a snifter you can capture the aroma of oils as you drink it.

Sip slowly and in the company of friends.  Stimulate the conversation by regaling heroic content kills and the time you double force choked the parents of your apprentice.