B-52 (cocktail)

B-52 (cocktail)

The B-52 is a layered cocktail that is served in a shot glass. It is named after the B-52 Stratofortress long-range, subsonic, jet-powered strategic bomber used by the United States Air Force (USAF). The cocktail was invented by Peter Fich, a head bartender at the Banff Springs Hotel in Banff, Alberta.

Ingredients and Preparation

The B-52 cocktail consists of three different liqueurs: Kahlúa, Baileys Irish Cream, and Grand Marnier. These ingredients are layered into a shot glass in that specific order. The method of layering, or "floating," the ingredients is achieved by slowly pouring each liqueur over the back of a spoon or down a cocktail stirrer, creating a striped effect in the glass.

Variations

There are several variations of the B-52 cocktail, including the B-51, B-52 with Bomb Bay Doors, B-53, and B-54. Each variation substitutes one or more of the original liqueurs with alternatives such as Frangelico (B-51), Absinthe (B-52 with Bomb Bay Doors), Sambuca (B-53), and Amaretto (B-54).

Cultural Impact

The B-52 cocktail has had a significant cultural impact, particularly in popular music. The American rock band, The B-52's, named themselves after the cocktail. The drink has also been referenced in several films and television shows, including the popular sitcom, Friends.

See Also

• List of cocktails
• Layered drink
• Shot glass