Already a favourite abroad, Cafe Patron has hit some of the nightclubs in the city and the tipple lovers can’t seem to get enough of it because of its delicious taste. Mixologist Irfan Ahmed decodes the drink that comes in a dome-shaped stout cork bottle.

What is Patron XO Cafe?

Patron XO Cafe (better known as Cafe Patron) is an ultra premium tequila-based coffee liqueur, thus the letters XO are also used. It has 35 per cent alcohol, making it stronger than most liqueurs. Most importantly, it is not as sweet as other liqueurs. It is dry. It’s a unique blend of super fine tequila with fresh essence of the best of coffees.

How did it get its name?

Patron has as company many brands of tequila (mostly high-end ultra premium tequila). And this one creates a flavoured ultra premium tequila liqueur with fresh rich coffee. Thus the name Patron XO Cafe (as the French so lovingly call it). XO simply translates into “extra old” or “extra aged”... as the French tag their cognacs.

Why do we like it?

Well, it’s the current trend internationally and so it is going to catch on here very soon. In fact, it’s already caught the fancy of Delhi and Mumbai. Cafe Patron is a must-have brand at almost every party now. The Calcutta party crowd is well-versed in international trends. Besides, Jagermeister has been there for a while, while this is fresh and catching on well with the party people.

How do we drink it?

Patron XO Cafe can be enjoyed in many ways. Have it chilled as a shot or sip on it. Drink it with a vanilla shake or have various Patron XO cafe cocktails — Coffee Martini or a Black Russian, B52 or Brandy Alexander. It can and is being incorporated into many cocktails. Patron XO Cafe is stronger than famous coffee liqueurs like Kahlua or Tia Maria and also not as sweet. One may add it to a cafe latte, cappuccino or even with a shot of espresso. Add to your ice cream or simply have a dessert made out of Patron XO Cafe, like the tiramisu!