Rainbow

The Rainbow is the ultimate technical challenge for a bartender. It is a Pousse-Café style drink where ingredients are carefully layered according to their specific gravity to create a striking multi-colored effect.

Key Takeaways

• Visual Masterpiece: Defined by its discrete layers of red, clear, green, orange, and amber.
• Textural Journey: Each sip offers a different flavor and sugar concentration.
• ABV: High (approximately 25-28%).
• Primary Glassware: Tall, narrow Pousse-Café glass.

The History of the Rainbow

Layered drinks became the height of fashion in the Victorian era and remained prestigious inclusions in international lists, including the 1961 IBA list. They represent an era of precise craft and the celebration of the “fancy” cocktail.

Ingredient Definition and Selection

The order of ingredients is critical. Each successive liquid must have a lower sugar concentration (and therefore lower density) than the one below it.

1. Grenadine: The heaviest, providing the red base.
2. Maraschino: A clear, slightly lighter liqueur.
3. Green Crème de Menthe: Adds the vibrant green middle-layer.
4. Orange Curaçao: The orange layer.
5. Brandy: The lightest spirit, acting as the amber float.

Preparation and Best Practices

1. Temerature Control: Cold liquids are denser. Ensure all ingredients are at the same room temperature to prevent unexpected mixing.
2. The Spoon Technique: Always pour over the back of a chilled bar spoon. Hold the spoon just above the surface of the previous layer and pour slowly.
3. Stability: Do not move the glass once you have started layering. The surface tension between layers is fragile.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 195 kcal per serving.
• Carbohydrates: 18g.
• Sugar: 18g.