As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question about the difference between cordial and liqueur.
Firstly, let's talk about liqueurs. Liqueurs are alcoholic beverages that are flavored with various ingredients such as fruits, herbs, spices, or even nuts. They are typically sweet in taste and have a strong flavor profile. Liqueurs are often used as aperitifs or digestifs, and they can also be used as ingredients in cocktails.
On the other hand, cordials, especially in the UK, refer to sweet, non-alcoholic liquids. They are often used as flavorings in beverages or as syrups for desserts. Cordials can be made from fruits, flowers, or herbs and are usually diluted with water before consumption. They are known for their intense flavors and are commonly used to add a burst of flavor to drinks or desserts.
Now, here comes the exception I mentioned earlier. In some countries, particularly in the United States, the term “cordial” is used interchangeably with “liqueur.” This can cause confusion, as the same word is used to describe both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Therefore, it's important to consider the context and the country in which the term is being used to understand its meaning accurately.
In my personal experience, I have come across this confusion while working in the beverage industry. I have had customers ask for cordials, expecting non-alcoholic syrups, only to realize that they were referring to liqueurs. It's essential to clarify the specific product or flavor they are looking for to avoid any misunderstandings.
To summarize, cordials and liqueurs are essentially the same thing, referring to flavored beverages. The main difference lies in the context and the country in which the terms are used. In the UK, cordials are non-alcoholic sweet liquids used for flavoring, while liqueurs are alcoholic beverages with intense flavors. However, in some countries, including the United States, the term “cordial” can also refer to alcoholic liqueurs.