Cabo Diablo is the newest extension of the Cabo Wabo Tequila line. It’s a coffee liqueur made with tequila blanco, and the tagline is that it’s a “perfectly devilish mix.” After getting my hands on a bottle and enjoying my first c
hilled shot, I’d say that description is highly accurate. When you pop the Diablo open, you are hit with the aroma of rich coffee and hints of vanilla and chocolate, almost like a Starbucks Frappuccino. The taste reflects this at first, as the entry is smooth and sweet and coats your palate with notes of coffee, cocoa, vanilla and hazelnut. However, the taste transitions to a spicy sensation that tequila lovers will enjoy, and finishes with an intriguing bite that can only be described as devilish. Although obviously not for everyone, Cabo Diablo can boast a “best of both worlds” aspect in that it is inviting as a sweet, delicious liqueur, but finishes strong like a good tequila shot should (with no chaser necessary). It is also a great ingredient for cocktails and shooters, so use it and enjoy the four recipes below.
SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL – Created by Jaime Felber of Boulton & Watt (NYC)
1 oz. Cabo Diablo
1 oz. Rye Whiskey
3 dashes Peychauds Bitters
3 dashes Angostura Bitters
rinse of Peat Monster scotch
Stirred, served in a rocks glass (no ice).
FLYING SOUTH FOR THE WINTER – Created by Jaime Felber of Boulton & Watt (NYC)
1.5 oz. Cabo Diablo
.75 oz. Campari
1.5 oz. Pineapple Juice
.5 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
.5 oz. Simple Syrup
Shaken, served on the rocks.
DEVIL’S SUNSET
2 oz. Cabo Diablo
4 oz. Soda Water
.5 oz. Honey Solution
Build over ice in a rocks glass
DIABLO BITE
2 oz. Cabo Diablo
.25 oz. Lemon Juice
Chill ingredients and serve in a shot glass
Other notes: Cabo Diablo is 35% ABV (70 proof), $22.99 per 750-ml bottle, and its color-changing label reveals a devilish surprise when the bottle is chilled. For more, follow Cabo Diablo on Twitter.
