Capitalizing on the Spicy Margarita craze, orange liqueur icon Cointreau has launched a brand new chili-infused expression.

The expression will hit shelves across the UK through June, with the promise of bringing a bold, balanced, natural heat to cocktail menus.

This orange liqueur, however, has been crafted with a new recipe that sits at 30% ABV, a rather significant 10% ABV lower than the classic Cointreau. Bird’s Eye chilli maceration and natural chilli and jalapeño flavourings have also been added.

It has also been infused  with "a touch" of natural cucumber for freshness and vegetal green notes, and has a profile said to be bold, clean, lifted, and perfectly balanced.

The brand said the drink should provide a warming spice that lifts without overpowering it, and seeks to keep spicy serves effortless and accessible.

The launch features a comprehensive consumer and trade activation plan, highlighted by a branded Cointreau Margarita Bar at Taste of London and BST Hyde Park. There, the brand will pour classic Spicy Margaritas alongside fiery twists on other popular fruit variations.

While retaining Cointreau’s iconic square amber bottle and heritage savoir-faire, the Cointreau Spicy bottle leans into a bold design with repeated spice-related cues to signal its fiery profile.

The popularity of spiced drinks has been proven, too. UK Google searches for "simple Spicy Margarita recipe" skyrocketed by 350% between May 2024 and May 2026, propelling the drink to number nine on Difford’s Top 100 Cocktails list.

Beyond aiding bartenders, Cointreau Spicy caters to the home mixologist. Brand research revealed that 38% of consumers are more likely to make spicy cocktails at home if given easy recipes, while 33% are eager to try a new twist on a familiar classic.

Cointreau Spicy will be available in retail and on-trade at an MSRP of £27 (US$36).

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team