Spicy Fifty in a martini glass with a red chili pepper as garnish

Cocktail

Spicy Fifty

How to make a Spicy Fifty - the modern vodka cocktail with honey, vanilla, lime and a fiery touch of chili. Sweet and spicy signature drink from London.

5 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
Martini glassGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Spicy Fifty is a refined modern vodka cocktail that brings sweetness and heat into perfect balance. Vanilla, honey and elderflower caress the palate, while the chili provides an exciting, warming finish. An elegant signature drink for everyone who loves the interplay of sweet and spicy.

Instructions

  1. Add vanilla vodka, elderflower liqueur, lime juice and honey syrup to a shaker.
  2. Add the chili slices and press gently.
  3. Top up with ice cubes and shake vigorously.
  4. Double strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
  5. Garnish with a red chili pepper.

Garnish: Red chili pepper

Pro tip: Press a chili slice briefly before shaking - this way you decide the spiciness yourself and can season the drink more strongly for lovers of heat.

Frequently asked questions

Who invented the Spicy Fifty?

The Spicy Fifty is considered a modern classic from the London bar scene and is often attributed to bartender Salvatore Calabrese.

How spicy does the cocktail get?

The heat can be controlled through the amount and steeping time of the chili - two slices give a pleasantly tingling, not too dominant effect.

What can I replace the honey syrup with?

You can mix liquid honey with warm water in a two to one ratio to make your own honey syrup.

Ingredients

  • Vanilla vodka5 cl
  • Elderflower liqueur1.5 cl
  • Fresh lime juice2 cl
  • Honey syrup1.5 cl
  • Red chili2 slices
  • Ice cubesas needed