Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic27.6% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 4 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Cheese, Desserts, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierBitters
- 2.0 ozScotch WhiskeyBase
- 2.0 ozCoconut LiqueurModifier
- 2.0 ozDry SherryModifier
- 2 dashesGrapefruit BittersBitters
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirGarnish
- Stir with ice and strain into chilled cocktail glass.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Add grapefruit twist.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
CheeseDessertsFruit
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.CitrusLemon is bright and sharp; lime is more floral and slightly sweeter; orange is softer and rounder; grapefruit adds bitter edge. They are not interchangeable — each changes the acidity and aroma of the drink. If you swap, adjust the sweetener to rebalance.BittersAromatic bitters (like Angostura) add spice, clove and cinnamon warmth. Orange bitters are brighter and more citrus-forward. Peychaud's is lighter and more floral. Swapping between them changes the top-note character — use the same quantity and taste, adjusting by drops.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Character Development?
- The Character Development is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 27.6%. A standard serving contains approximately 419 calories.
- What does a Character Development taste like?
- Character Development has a flavour profile featuring Bitter, Grapefruit, Citrus, Coconut. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Character Development?
- Character Development pairs well with Cheese, Desserts, Fruit. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Character Development?
- The Character Development has an ABV of approximately 27.6%. That's approximately 2.78 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 419 calories, 18.9g sugar, 28.4g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Character Development typically served?
- Character Development is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Character Development?
- If you enjoy Character Development, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Character Development at home?
- Yes. The Character Development uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Character Development with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.