What's in a UE? Full Recipe, Ingredients & Mixology Tips

What's in a UE? Full Recipe, Ingredients & Mixology Tips

Calendar Icon February 04, 2025 User Icon by BarBot Team

Introduction

When it comes to modern mixology, few cocktails stand out quite like the UE. Created by renowned mixologist Sother Teague at Amor y Amargo in New York's East Village, the UE is a testament to the art of simplicity and balance. Unlike most cocktails that thrive on ice-cold refreshment, the UE is served at room temperature, allowing its complex flavors to shine through.

Sother Teague's inventive approach to crafting cocktails has earned him a reputation for pushing boundaries, and the UE is no exception. This intriguing drink combines the bold flavors of Branca Menta, Reposado Tequila, and Suze, resulting in a harmonious blend that surprises and delights the palate. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the UE offers a unique tasting experience that's sure to captivate.

A fun fact about the UE is its name, which remains a bit of a mystery. Some speculate it stands for "Unexpected Elegance," a fitting description for a cocktail that defies conventional expectations. Regardless of its origins, the UE has become a favorite among those who appreciate the finer nuances of mixology.

Ingredients

  • 0.75 oz Branca Menta
  • 0.75 oz Reposado Tequila
  • 0.75 oz Suze

Crafting the UE cocktail is all about choosing the right ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Here's what you'll need for this modern creation:

  • 0.75 oz Branca Menta: Branca Menta brings a refreshing minty bitterness that adds depth to the cocktail.
  • 0.75 oz Reposado Tequila: Reposado Tequila offers a smooth, slightly aged flavor that rounds out the drink's profile.
  • 0.75 oz Suze: Suze, a bitter French aperitif, provides a unique herbal note that ties the cocktail together.

Instructions

Creating the UE cocktail is simple yet requires attention to detail. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect balance of flavors:

  1. Combine all the ingredients in a rocks glass.
  2. Stir briefly, without ice, and serve at room temperature.

Tips

  • Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to maintain the cocktail's intended flavor profile.
  • Use a quality reposado tequila to enhance the drink's smoothness and depth.
  • For an added twist, experiment with other herbal liqueurs in place of Suze to discover new flavor combinations.
  • Consider serving the UE in a chilled glass to contrast the room-temperature ingredients and add a subtle layer of complexity.

Conclusion

The UE cocktail is a fascinating exploration of modern mixology, offering a unique blend of flavors that challenge traditional cocktail norms. Its room-temperature presentation allows each ingredient to express itself fully, providing a memorable experience for anyone who enjoys a good drink.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of cocktails? Download the BarBot app and unlock a treasure trove of recipes, including the UE. With BarBot, you can log your tasting notes, rate your favorite drinks, and even share photos of your creations with fellow cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you're refining your mixology skills or simply exploring new flavors, BarBot is your go-to companion for all things cocktail-related. Cheers to new discoveries!

UE recipe adapted from 3-Ingredient Cocktails by Robin Simonson.