Prince of Wales

The story

The Prince of Wales cocktail is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, possibly named after Edward, the Prince of Wales, who became King Edward VII. Its combination of brandy, orange liqueur, and champagne reflects the era's penchant for luxurious ingredients, making it a popular choice for celebrations and formal gatherings.

How it tastes

The Prince of Wales offers a rich, complex flavor profile with the warmth of cognac, the sweetness of orange liqueur, and the effervescence of champagne. It is best served as a celebratory drink, suitable for toasting at special occasions or elegant gatherings.

Getting it right

Key to the Prince of Wales is the proper layering of flavors. The sugar cube must be thoroughly soaked with bitters and lemon zest before adding the cognac and liqueur, ensuring a balanced sweetness. Topping with chilled champagne should be done gently to maintain its effervescence.

Variations

• Prince of Wales Fizz — A variation that adds a splash of soda water for a lighter, fizzier drink.
• Royal Prince — Substitutes gin for cognac, offering a different botanical flavor profile.

Substitutions

• Cognac — Use any high-quality brandy if cognac is unavailable.
• Grand Marnier — Cointreau or another orange liqueur can be used as a substitute.

Questions

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can use white sugar or simple syrup, but the flavor may differ slightly.

Is it necessary to use a specific brand of cognac?

While Rémy Martin 1738 is recommended for its quality, any good cognac will work.

What if I don't have a flute glass?

You can use any glass that holds the ingredients, but a flute is preferred for its ability to showcase the bubbles.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026