Gold Driver Cocktail Recipe
Gold Driver Nutrition Facts
Calories:~200
Fat:0g
Protein:1g
Carbohydrates:20g
Alcohol:~14%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
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: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Gold Driver is a twist on the classic Screwdriver cocktail, which traditionally consists of vodka and orange juice. The Gold Driver, however, uses tequila as its base spirit, specifically Jose Cuervo Especial Gold, which gives the drink a richer, more complex flavor profile. It's a favorite among tequila enthusiasts and those looking for a citrusy, refreshing cocktail with a kick.
- Originating from the desire to innovate on classic cocktails, the Gold Driver was born.
- It's perfect for summer parties or as a brunch cocktail.
- The Gold Driver is often enjoyed by those who appreciate a balance between the sweetness of orange juice and the boldness of tequila.
How Gold Driver Tastes?
The Gold Driver offers a smooth, yet robust taste with a perfect blend of sweet and tangy. The tequila provides a warm, oaky undertone, while the fresh lime juice adds a zesty, slightly tart edge. The orange juice brings it all together with its natural sweetness and fruity notes, making for a refreshing and invigorating drink.
Interesting facts about Gold Driver
- The Gold Driver can be considered a Mexican twist on the Screwdriver due to its use of tequila.
- Jose Cuervo Especial Gold is a type of tequila known as 'mixto', meaning it's not 100% agave.
- This cocktail is often garnished with a lime wheel or wedge to enhance its visual appeal and add a fresh citrus scent.
Ingredients
- Fresh lime: 1 slice
- Orange juice: 4 oz(120ml)
- Jose cuervo especial gold tequila: 3 oz(90ml)
- Ice: to fill
Fresh Lime
Using fresh lime provides a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the sweetness of the orange juice and the tequila's complexity; without it, you miss a zesty punch. Using too much can overpower the drink, making it too tart. Alternatives? Try lemon for a sharp twist.
Mary Mitkina
Orange Juice
Acts as the sweet counterpart to the lime, giving a fruity backbone to the cocktail. Less juice means a stronger tequila presence; more could make it cloyingly sweet. No OJ, no 'Gold' in your 'Driver'. Consider using blood orange juice for a richer taste.
Alex Green
Jose Cuervo Especial Gold Tequila
This is the heart of the drink—providing warmth and a hint of oak. Less tequila, and you've got a lightweight vehicle; too much, and you're off-roading. Swap it with a silver tequila for a crisper engine.
Emma Rose
Ice
Ice keeps it all cool and dilutes the mix slightly for a smoother ride. Without ice, it's like a hot car with no A/C—still gets you there, but it's not as enjoyable. Crushed ice will give you a quicker chill and faster dilution.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Gold Driver Drink
- Fill a short glass with ice.
- Pour 3 oz of Jose Cuervo Especial Gold Tequila into the glass.
- Top off with approximately 4 oz of orange juice.
- Squeeze a slice of fresh lime into the drink.
- Stir gently to mix.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge on the rim of the glass.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For a colder drink, chill the glass beforehand.
- Adjust the ratio of tequila to orange juice according to your preference for strength and sweetness.
- Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
- Citrus Grilled Chicken - The citrus notes in the chicken marry well with the Gold Driver's lime and orange components.
- Shrimp Ceviche - A zesty appetizer like ceviche complements the refreshing quality of the cocktail.
- Chips and Guacamole - The freshness of the guac plays nicely against the sweet-tart nature of the drink.
Drink Pairings
- Sparkling Water - For a non-alcoholic option, a bubbly water will help cleanse the palate between sips of the cocktail.
- Blonde Ale - A light beer such as a blonde ale won't overpower the zestiness of the Gold Driver.
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What you could change in Gold Driver
- If Jose Cuervo Especial Gold Tequila is not available, any good quality gold tequila can be used as a substitute.
- For a non-alcoholic version, use a non-alcoholic tequila alternative or orange-flavored sparkling water.
Explore all drinks starting with G here
And of course - twists🍹
Spicy Gold Driver
- Add a slice of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the cocktail.
- It will introduce a spicy kick that contrasts the sweetness and tanginess, adding an adventurous edge to your sipping experience.
Golden Sunrise Driver
- Mix in a splash of grenadine to settle at the bottom of the glass, creating a sunrise effect.
- The grenadine adds sweetness and a gradient of color that'll make your drink not only tastier but also Instagram-worthy.
Frozen Gold Driver
- Blend the ingredients with frozen orange juice concentrate instead of ice.
- This will result in a slushy consistency and a burst of flavor with every frosty sip, giving you a cooler twist on the classic.
In case you forgot basics how to make Gold Driver
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing 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).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Gold Driver
Can I make a Gold Driver in a large batch for parties?
Yes, the Gold Driver can be scaled up to serve a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix in a large pitcher or punch bowl. Serve over ice, and ensure to provide lime slices for individual garnish.
Is there a specific type of ice that works best for the Gold Driver?
Cubed ice is typically used for the Gold Driver, as it melts slower than crushed ice, keeping your drink cool without diluting it too quickly. However, feel free to use crushed ice if you prefer a more slushy texture.
What's the importance of using a gold tequila?
Gold tequila often has a smoother, richer flavor than silver tequila because it is typically aged in oak barrels. This complements the sweet and citrus notes of the Gold Driver cocktail.
How can I adjust the Gold Driver for someone who prefers less sweetness?
For a less sweet cocktail, you can reduce the amount of orange juice, increase the lime juice, or add a splash of soda water to dilute the sweetness while maintaining the refreshing flavor.
Can I garnish the Gold Driver with something other than lime?
Certainly! While lime is the classic choice, feel free to garnish with an orange slice or a cherry for a different look and a hint of extra sweetness.
Is the Gold Driver suitable for a brunch menu?
Absolutely, the Gold Driver's vibrant citrus flavor makes it a delightful choice for brunch, similar to how mimosas and Bloody Marys are enjoyed.
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