Golden Hour Elixir

Negroni & Riffs • December 16, 2025

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A photo of the Golden Hour Elixir cocktail containing Hennessy V.S. Cognac, Bénédictine D.O.M. Liqueur, Aperol Aperitivo, Peychaud's Bitters, Angostura Orange Bitters in a Coupe.

Curiada Ingredients

1.50 fl oz Hennessy V.S. Cognac or alternative
0.67 fl oz Bénédictine D.O.M. Liqueur or alternative
0.67 fl oz Aperol Aperitivo or alternative
1.00 dash Peychaud's Bitters or alternative
1.00 dash Angostura Orange Bitters or alternative

Directions

Chill coupe glass
Add all ingredients to mixing glass
Add ice to mixing glass
Stir well
Strain into chilled coupe glass
Express grapefruit zest twist over drink and drop into glass

Cocktail Description

As dusk settles and amber light filters through the windows, the Golden Hour Elixir captures that fleeting moment when day surrenders to evening.

This sophisticated sipper combines the bold character of Hennessy V.S. Cognac with the herbal complexity of Bénédictine, while Aperol adds a gentle bitter-orange sweetness that brightens the entire composition. The addition of both Peychaud's and Angostura Orange bitters provides depth and aromatic intensity, with the expressed oils from the grapefruit twist delivering a burst of citrus that ties everything together. Despite its complex ingredient list, this cocktail is surprisingly straightforward to prepare—simply stir with ice and strain—making it accessible even for novice home bartenders. It's an ideal companion for those transitional moments: pre-dinner gatherings, intimate date nights, or whenever you want to transform an ordinary evening into something memorable. The Golden Hour Elixir pairs beautifully with charcuterie boards, particularly those featuring aged cheeses and smoked meats, where its bittersweet profile and cognac backbone stand up to rich, savory flavors.