If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s as vibrant as it is refreshing, LA Water is the perfect pick. This colorful drink is a playful twist on a Long Island Iced Tea, featuring a mix of bold flavors and a stunning gradient of hues that’s sure to impress. It’s a party in a glass, and the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
The origins of LA Water are a bit of a mystery, but it’s become a favorite in bars for its eye-catching appearance and unique taste. With a combination of fruity liqueurs and classic spirits, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and boozy. Whether we’re hosting a gathering or just want to elevate our cocktail game, this recipe always delivers a crowd-pleasing sip.
La Water Recipe
Let’s dive into how to prepare LA Water, a colorful and flavorful cocktail sure to wow your guests. Follow these precise steps to mix up the perfect glass of this vibrant drink.
Ingredients
Here’s everything we need to make one serving of LA Water:
- 1/2 ounce vodka
- 1/2 ounce gin
- 1/2 ounce white rum
- 1/2 ounce tequila
- 1/2 ounce blue curaçao
- 1/2 ounce melon liqueur
- 1/2 ounce raspberry liqueur (such as Chambord)
- 2 ounces sweet and sour mix
- Ice cubes
- Lemon wedge, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh mint or cherries, for garnish (optional)
Equipment
To make this cocktail, ensure you have the following:
- A cocktail shaker
- A jigger, for accurate measurements
- A highball or Collins glass for serving
- Bar spoon (optional, for stirring)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Fill your highball or Collins glass with ice cubes, leaving a bit of room for the liquid ingredients. Set aside.
- Shake Base Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker filled halfway with ice, combine:
- Vodka
- Gin
- White rum
- Tequila
- Sweet and sour mix
Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to properly mix and chill the spirits.
- Pour and Layer: Strain the shaken mixture into the prepared glass. Slowly add the blue curaçao, allowing it to settle slightly. Next, carefully pour in the melon liqueur, followed by the raspberry liqueur. These will create the signature layers of blue, green, and purple hues that make the drink eye-catching.
- Optional Garnishes: Add a lemon wedge, fresh mint, or cherries to enhance its presentation.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with a straw and watch your guests marvel at the vivid colors and bold taste.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail works best when served chilled for maximum refreshment. Pair it with light appetizers like sliders or fresh seafood to complement its vibrant flavors.
Quick Reference Table
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Vodka | 1/2 ounce |
| Gin | 1/2 ounce |
| White rum | 1/2 ounce |
| Tequila | 1/2 ounce |
| Blue curaçao | 1/2 ounce |
| Melon liqueur | 1/2 ounce |
| Raspberry liqueur | 1/2 ounce |
| Sweet and sour mix | 2 ounces |
This La Water Recipe is both simple and show-stopping, delivering complex flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
To make the perfect LA Water cocktail, we’ll need a selection of bold spirits and liqueurs that blend harmoniously to create its signature vibrant flavor and striking appearance. Below is a detailed list of the ingredients you will need, along with measurements to ensure the best results.
Spirits and Liquors:
- 1/2 oz vodka: Choose a quality vodka for a smooth base.
- 1/2 oz gin: A classic dry gin works best for balance.
- 1/2 oz white rum: Opt for a light rum to maintain the cocktail’s color and taste.
- 1/2 oz silver tequila: This adds a slight earthiness to the mix.
Liqueurs:
- 1/2 oz blue curaçao: Brings a burst of citrus flavor and vibrant blue hue.
- 1/2 oz melon liqueur: For a sweet and refreshing melon undertone.
- 1/2 oz raspberry liqueur (e.g., Chambord): Adds a fruity depth with a touch of red-violet color.
Mixers:
- 2 oz sweet and sour mix: Provides the perfect blend of tanginess and sweetness.
Ice and Garnishes:
- Ice cubes: Enough to fill your cocktail shaker and glass.
- Optional garnishes:
- Lemon wedge
- Fresh mint sprig
- Maraschino cherries
Ingredient Overview Table:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 1/2 oz | Base spirit providing smoothness |
| Gin | 1/2 oz | Adds herbal notes |
| White Rum | 1/2 oz | Light sweetness with a tropical essence |
| Silver Tequila | 1/2 oz | Earthy and slightly smoky undertone |
| Blue Curaçao | 1/2 oz | Sweet citrus flavor with vibrant color |
| Melon Liqueur | 1/2 oz | Sweet melon undertone |
| Raspberry Liqueur | 1/2 oz | Fruity depth with vivid hue |
| Sweet and Sour Mix | 2 oz | Tangy-sweet balance to tie flavors together |
| Ice Cubes | As needed | Chills the drink |
| Lemon, mint, or cherry | Optional | Enhances presentation and flavor |
Make sure to have your cocktail shaker and a highball or Collins glass on hand. These ingredients, when combined, create the iconic LA Water with its layered colors and vibrant, refreshing taste.
Tools And Equipment
To create the perfect LA Water cocktail, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Below is a breakdown of what we’ll need to ensure our drink is mixed, chilled, and served to perfection.
Essential Tools
- Cocktail shaker: A must-have for mixing the spirits and liqueurs thoroughly. We recommend a stainless steel shaker for durability and ease of use.
- Jigger: For precise measurement of each ingredient. Look for one with both 1 oz and ½ oz markings.
- Bar spoon: This slim spoon allows us to gently layer or stir certain ingredients without over-mixing.
- Strainer: Perfect for ensuring no ice or large chunks end up in the final drink. Often built into a shaker, but a standalone Hawthorne strainer works too.
- Cutting board and knife: Handy for cutting optional garnishes like lemon wedges or mint sprigs.
- Mixing glass (optional): Ideal if you want to combine flavors delicately before pouring into the final glass.
Serving Equipment
- Highball or Collins glass: The tall, slender shape of these glasses showcases the vibrant layers of the drink beautifully. A fun alternative would be clear stemless glassware for a modern twist.
- Ice cube tray: Fresh cubes help maintain the drink’s refreshing temperature and visual appeal. Large cubes are recommended to prevent dilution too quickly.
Pro Tip
Keep your cocktail shaker and glasses chilled in the freezer beforehand. This extra step ensures that the LA Water cocktail is refreshingly cold when it hits the table.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cocktail shaker | Mixes ingredients thoroughly |
| Jigger | Measures ingredients accurately |
| Bar spoon | Stirs or layers ingredients gently |
| Strainer | Filters out ice and solids |
| Highball/Collins glass | Showcases the drink’s vibrant layers |
| Ice cube tray | Provides fresh ice for chilling |
| Cutting board & knife | Preps garnishes like lemon or mint |
Each of these items ensures we deliver a professional-quality cocktail, even from home. Having everything ready saves time and allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the process of creating the visually stunning and delicious LA Water cocktail.
Directions
Follow these simple steps to craft a perfectly balanced LA Water cocktail that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Whether it’s for a party or a cozy night in, this visually vibrant cocktail recipe is sure to impress.
Prep
- Gather ingredients and tools: Ensure all ingredients—vodka, gin, white rum, tequila, blue curaçao, melon liqueur, raspberry liqueur, and sweet and sour mix—are measured accurately and ready to use. Refer to our ingredient list for exact measurements.
- Prepare your glassware: Chill a highball glass or Collins glass in the refrigerator or freezer for 5–10 minutes to keep the drink refreshingly cold.
- Fill with ice: Take the chilled glass and fill it with ice cubes, leaving some space at the top. This helps maintain the drink’s crisp temperature and enhances the flavor.
Pro Tip: Place your cocktail shaker in the freezer beforehand for an extra-frosty mixing experience.
Mix The Cocktail
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the following ingredients in the specified order:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Vodka | 0.5 oz (1 tbsp) |
| Gin | 0.5 oz (1 tbsp) |
| White Rum | 0.5 oz (1 tbsp) |
| Tequila | 0.5 oz (1 tbsp) |
| Blue Curaçao | 0.5 oz (1 tbsp) |
| Melon Liqueur | 0.5 oz (1 tbsp) |
| Raspberry Liqueur | 0.5 oz (1 tbsp) |
| Sweet & Sour Mix | 1 oz (2 tbsp) |
- Add ice cubes to the shaker until it’s about ¾ full. Seal the lid tightly.
- Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and fully combined. Look for condensation forming on the outside of the shaker as a sign it’s ready.
- Using a cocktail strainer, pour the mixture into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
Tip: A clear layering of vivid colors is a hallmark of a good LA Water cocktail. Watch the drink transform into its signature deep teal hue as the ingredients combine.
- Optional garnish: Decorate the drink with a lemon wedge, a sprig of fresh mint, or a couple of maraschino cherries.
Reminder: Serve immediately to enjoy this chilled masterpiece at its peak flavor.
Tips For The Perfect La Water
Crafting the perfect LA Water cocktail takes more than just following a recipe. These tips will refine your technique, ensure an impressive presentation, and elevate your cocktail game. Let’s explore what makes an exceptional LA Water.
1. Chill Everything In Advance
To keep the drink refreshingly crisp, prep your tools and ingredients ahead of time.
- Chill the glassware: Place your highball or Collins glass in the freezer for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. A frosty glass enhances the drink’s presentation and maintains its cool temperature.
- Cold ingredients: Use spirits and mixers straight from the fridge. This minimizes dilution when you add ice.
Pro Tip: Chilling your cocktail shaker will also ensure the drink stays as cold as possible during mixing.
2. Use Clear Ice for Aesthetic Appeal
The visual appeal of LA Water lies not only in its vibrant colors but also in the clarity of the ice. Opt for clear ice cubes—these are free of air bubbles and impurities, giving your cocktail a polished and professional look.
Quick Tip: Freeze boiled water in ice molds to achieve crystal-clear cubes.
3. Perfect the Layering Technique
Achieving the signature colorful layers of an LA Water requires precision and care:
- Add heavy ingredients, such as the sweet and sour mix, first as the base.
- Gradually layer blue curaçao, melon liqueur, and raspberry liqueur over the back of a spoon to create distinct layers. The slight density differences between the liqueurs make the colors naturally separate.
Pro Tip: Pour each ingredient slowly and steadily to maintain separation.
4. Balance the Sweetness and Strength
The key to a balanced LA Water cocktail lies in managing the sweetness of the liqueurs and the potency of the spirits:
- Adjust the ratio of sweet liqueurs to suit your taste. For example:
- Prefer a sweeter drink? Add a touch more melon or raspberry liqueur.
- Looking for a stronger profile? Increase the vodka, gin, or tequila slightly, but not more than 0.5 oz total, as it can overpower the flavors.
Expert Note: Too much of any ingredient can unbalance the drink. Stick to precise measurements for consistently great results.
5. Garnish with Intention
Enhance both the visual appeal and flavor of your LA Water with thoughtful garnishes. Here are some ideas:
- A lemon wedge or twist for a zesty aroma.
- Fresh mint sprigs for a cool, herbal note.
- Bright maraschino cherries to complement the layered colors.
Golden Rule: The garnish should complement, not clash with, the drink’s flavors.
6. Serve Immediately
LA Water is best enjoyed freshly mixed to maintain its vibrant colors and balanced taste. Ensure your guests are ready to indulge as soon as the drink is served.
Pro Tip: Avoid letting the ice sit too long in the shaker or glass, as it can dilute the flavors and ruin the distinct separation of colors.
Bonus: Adjust for Crowd Pleasers
If making LA Water for a party, the recipe can easily be expanded. Use the table below to scale up the ingredients for larger batches while maintaining the flavor balance.
| Number of Servings | Vodka (oz) | Gin (oz) | White Rum (oz) | Tequila (oz) | Blue Curaçao (oz) | Melon Liqueur (oz) | Raspberry Liqueur (oz) | Sweet & Sour Mix (oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (single serve) | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 2 |
| 4 (small group) | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 8 |
| 8 (party size) | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 16 |
Variations And Substitutions
Exploring Variations And Substitutions for LA Water allows us to tailor this vibrant cocktail to suit different preferences or ingredient availability. Below, we’ll break down some creative ways to modify this drink while retaining its signature charm.
1. Substitutions for Spirits and Liqueurs
If you’re missing a specific spirit or liqueur, there are easy swaps you can make without compromising too much on flavor.
- Vodka: Replace with flavored vodka like citrus or berry to add a unique twist.
- White Rum: Use coconut rum for a tropical flair.
- Gin: Swap with dry gin if you prefer a more herbal depth or use floral gin for lighter notes.
- Tequila: Replace with mezcal to infuse a smoky element.
- Blue Curaçao: Opt for triple sec or orange liqueur for similar citrus notes minus the blue hue.
- Raspberry Liqueur: Substitute with blackberry liqueur or cherry liqueur for a comparable fruitiness.
- Melon Liqueur: Try apple schnapps or kiwi liqueur for a refreshing variation.
2. Adjusting Sweetness and Strength
We can customize the sweetness or alcohol content of the LA Water cocktail by tweaking ingredient proportions. This ensures the drink caters to individual preferences.
| Preference | Adjustment Tip |
|---|---|
| Sweeter Cocktail | Increase raspberry liqueur or melon liqueur. |
| Less Sweet | Reduce sweet liqueurs and add more sweet and sour mix. |
| Stronger Cocktail | Add an extra 0.25 oz of vodka, tequila, or rum. |
| Milder Version | Decrease spirits and increase ice or mixers. |
3. Color Variations
The layers of blue, green, and deep red hues are iconic in LA Water, but we can play around with alternative colors based on available liqueurs or themes.
- For a reddish hue, replace blue curaçao with grenadine.
- For a sunset vibe, mix in peach schnapps instead of melon liqueur.
These tweaks can also tie into themed events such as holidays or celebrations.
4. Non-Alcoholic Version
To create a mocktail version, swap out the alcohol while maintaining the vibrant colors and fruity flavor.
- Substitute the spirits with club soda or tonic water.
- Replace blue curaçao, raspberry liqueur, and melon liqueur with flavored syrups in the corresponding colors (such as blue raspberry, pomegranate, and green apple syrups).
- Add a dash of lime juice or lemon-lime soda for tanginess.
5. Garnish Swaps
Garnishing sets the stage for any cocktail. Here are a few options to substitute or elevate the drink’s presentation:
- Swap a lemon wedge with a lime wheel or a thin slice of starfruit for visual appeal.
- Replace cherries with fresh berries like raspberries or blackberries.
- Add an edible flower or thin citrus peel twist for an elegant touch.
Pro Tip: Use creative garnishing to match your cocktail’s color scheme or seasonal vibe!
6. Bulk Batch Preparation
For parties or gatherings, we can scale the LA Water recipe by creating a batch version. Use the table below for precision.
| Ingredients | Single Serving | Batch (8 Servings) |
|---|---|---|
| Vodka | 0.5 oz | 4 oz |
| Gin | 0.5 oz | 4 oz |
| White Rum | 0.5 oz | 4 oz |
| Tequila | 0.5 oz | 4 oz |
| Blue Curaçao | 0.5 oz | 4 oz |
| Melon Liqueur | 0.5 oz | 4 oz |
| Raspberry Liqueur | 0.5 oz | 4 oz |
| Sweet and Sour Mix | 2 oz | 16 oz |
Preparing in bulk saves time while ensuring every serving is flavorful and visually captivating.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving LA Water, presentation plays a key role in elevating the cocktail’s appeal. This vibrant, colorful drink is perfect for any gathering, and there are several ways to make the experience truly unforgettable. Here are some expert tips and ideas for serving LA Water:
1. Glassware Options
To showcase the cocktail’s stunning layers of green, blue, and raspberry hues:
- Use highball glasses for a tall and sleek presentation.
- Opt for Collins glasses if you prefer a slightly wider rim.
- For a more luxurious feel, serve it in stemmed goblets or martini glasses.
2. Garnishing and Finishing Touches
Enhance the cocktail’s visual appeal and flavor with creative garnishes:
- Add a lemon wedge or lime wheel for a zesty burst of freshness.
- Use fresh mint leaves for a fragrant, classic garnish that complements the sweet liqueurs.
- Drop in a few maraschino cherries to highlight the drink’s fruity notes and vibrant colors.
- For an elegant twist, rim the glass with sugar crystals or edible glitter to amplify its festive look.
Pro Tip: Stick a fruit skewer with alternating pieces of pineapple, orange, and cherry across the rim for a tropical flair.
3. Serving Temperature
Serving temperature is critical to fully enjoy the crisp and refreshing nature of LA Water:
- Ensure that the drink is served well-chilled. Pre-chill the glasses and use copious amounts of clear ice.
- Consider using specially shaped ice cubes, such as spheres or cubes with flowers or herbs frozen inside, for added sophistication.
4. Pairing Suggestions
Pair LA Water with light and complementary snacks for the perfect menu:
| Snack Suggestions | Flavor Pairing |
|---|---|
| Shrimp cocktail | Enhances the coastal vibes of the drink. |
| Nachos with guacamole | Balances the sweetness of the cocktail. |
| Charcuterie board | Complements the strong spirit base with varied textures. |
| Caprese skewers | The tangy mozzarella cuts through the fruity liqueurs. |
| Cheese platter | Offers salty and creamy flavors to balance the drink. |
5. Occasions to Serve LA Water
The vivid appearance and bold flavors of this cocktail make it ideal for a variety of settings:
- Pool parties: The colorful tones add to the lively atmosphere.
- BBQs and cookouts: Complements grilled dishes while keeping things light.
- Themed evenings: Works well for tropical or disco themes.
- Cocktail hours: Serve as a show-stopping centerpiece on any drink menu.
Quote for easy inspiration: “LA Water is not just a drink, it’s an experience—bold, colorful, and unforgettable.”
By following these Serving Suggestions, we ensure that LA Water not only tastes delicious but also leaves our guests impressed with its dazzling presentation and thoughtful pairings.
Make-Ahead And Storage
Preparing LA Water ahead of time can be a convenient option for parties or gatherings, but it requires careful planning to maintain its vibrant flavors and striking presentation. Here’s how we can make and store this cocktail effectively:
Tips for Making LA Water Ahead of Time
- Batch Preparation: If we’re making LA Water for a crowd, it’s best to prepare a cocktail base by premixing the spirits and sweet and sour mix. Combine vodka, gin, white rum, tequila, blue curaçao, melon liqueur, raspberry liqueur, and the sweet and sour mix in a large pitcher or sealed container. Do not add ice yet to prevent dilution.
- Portioning: Keep the prepared base refrigerated until serving. Use a jigger or measuring cup to accurately portion out individual servings into each glass when ready to serve.
- Layering Colors: To keep the vibrant color layers intact when making large batches, only mix the spirits and sweet and sour mix ahead of time. Add the colorful liqueurs like blue curaçao, melon liqueur, and raspberry liqueur as garnish layers just before serving.
- Garnishes: Prepare garnishes like lemon wedges, cherries, or mint leaves ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
Proper Storage Techniques
Here’s how to store the cocktail mix and its components to retain the flavors and presentation:
| Component | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Cocktail Base (Without Ice) | Store in an airtight pitcher; refrigerate. | Up to 24 hours |
| Colorful Liqueurs | Keep in their original bottles; store at room temperature or refrigerate. | Follow bottle expiration. |
| Garnishes | Refrigerate in an airtight container. | Up to 12 hours. |
Serving Stored LA Water
When it’s time to serve, follow these steps to preserve the vivid presentation:
- Fill the glass with fresh clear ice for a visually stunning look.
- Pour the prepared cocktail base directly over the ice.
- Layer the colorful liqueurs gently to re-create the signature gradient effect.
- Top with the garnishes prepared earlier to enhance both appearance and flavor.
Pro Tip:
For a truly refreshing experience, always chill the stored pitcher and serving glasses before use. As the saying goes, “A cold glass makes a bold statement!”
By following these methods, we can ensure the vibrant flavors and eye-catching colors of LA Water remain consistent while simplifying preparation for any event.
Conclusion
LA Water isn’t just a cocktail; it’s a statement. With its bold colors, layered flavors, and refreshing twist, it brings excitement to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a themed event, this drink is guaranteed to impress.
By following the recipe, using the right tools, and experimenting with creative garnishes, we can elevate the experience even further. Let’s embrace the vibrant charm of LA Water and share its unforgettable appeal with our guests. Cheers to crafting memorable moments, one cocktail at a time!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is LA Water cocktail?
LA Water is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail inspired by the Long Island Iced Tea. It features a mix of vodka, gin, white rum, tequila, blue curaçao, melon liqueur, raspberry liqueur, and sweet and sour mix, resulting in a colorful and bold-flavored drink that’s perfect for parties or gatherings.
How do I make LA Water?
To make LA Water, combine vodka, gin, white rum, tequila, blue curaçao, melon liqueur, raspberry liqueur, and sweet and sour mix in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well, strain into a chilled highball or Collins glass, and optionally garnish with a lemon wedge, cherries, or mint.
What equipment do I need to prepare LA Water?
You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, bar spoon, strainer, and either a highball or Collins glass. Additionally, prepare a cutting board and knife for garnishing, and ensure ice is on hand for chilling the drink.
What optional garnishes can I use for LA Water?
You can enhance the drink’s presentation with garnishes like a lemon wedge, a sprig of fresh mint, or maraschino cherries. These garnishes not only look great but also complement the drink’s flavors.
Can I customize the flavors in LA Water?
Yes, feel free to adjust the ratios of liqueurs and spirits based on your taste preferences. You can also substitute ingredients like flavored vodka, coconut rum, or different liqueurs while maintaining the drink’s balance.
Is it possible to make a non-alcoholic version of LA Water?
Absolutely! Simply replace the spirits and liqueurs with non-alcoholic alternatives like flavored syrups, citrus juices, and soda to create a mocktail with similar bold colors and refreshing flavors.
How do I achieve the layered colors in an LA Water cocktail?
To create vibrant color layers, carefully pour the liqueurs over the back of a spoon in the correct order. This technique helps maintain separation and enhances the cocktail’s visual appeal.
Can I prepare LA Water in advance for parties?
Yes! You can batch-mix the spirits and sweet and sour mix ahead of time. Keep liqueurs and garnishes separate until serving, and chill the pitcher and glasses for optimal freshness and presentation.
What snacks pair well with LA Water?
LA Water pairs well with light appetizers like chips and guacamole, fresh fruit platters, cheese boards, or shrimp cocktails. These pairings complement the drink’s fruity and bold flavors.
How do I store leftover LA Water?
It’s best served fresh, but you can store leftover mixed spirits (excluding garnishes) in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake well before serving to refresh the flavors.
Are there any variations of the LA Water cocktail?
Yes, you can experiment with ingredient swaps, such as using triple sec instead of blue curaçao or adding unique garnishes. Create color or flavor variations to suit your preferences or the event theme.
What is the best way to serve LA Water at gatherings?
Serve LA Water chilled in a highball or Collins glass. Use creative garnishes, clear ice, and vibrant layering techniques to make it visually stunning. Pair with light appetizers for an unforgettable experience.