Still Spirits Top Shelf Creme de Cacao

Still Spirits Top Shelf Crème de Cacao

What Is This Essence?

The Still Spirits Top Shelf Crème de Cacao essence is crafted to replicate the deep, velvety richness of a classic chocolate liqueur — that signature combination of dark cocoa sweetness, subtle vanilla warmth, and a smooth, indulgent finish that makes crème de cacao one of the most versatile and beloved liqueurs in the cocktail world. It's decadent, dessert-elegant, and perfectly suited to the home distiller who wants to make a full bottle of premium crème de cacao liqueur without paying retail prices. Whether you're building a Brandy Alexander, layering a B-52, or drizzling it over vanilla ice cream, this essence delivers the real thing at a fraction of the cost.

Flavour Profile

Nose: Rich dark chocolate, soft cocoa powder, hint of vanilla and sweet cream Palate: Smooth and full-bodied, deep bittersweet chocolate, gentle sweetness, creamy mid-palate texture Finish: Warm, lingering cocoa, clean and satisfying — exactly what a proper crème de cacao liqueur should feel like

How to Use It?

The Still Spirits Top Shelf Crème de Cacao is one of the most rewarding essences in the Top Shelf liqueur range — rich, true to style, and genuinely easy to make. Here's how it works:

1. Start with a clean, neutral spirit base that has been carbon-filtered to at least standard quality, ideally around 40% ABV.
2. Add your chosen Still Spirits liqueur base (Base A or Base B) as directed on the pack — this provides the body, sweetness, and mouthfeel essential for an authentic crème de cacao liqueur result.
3. Add the Crème de Cacao essence to the base and spirit mixture and stir to combine.
4. Top up to the recommended total volume with cold, filtered water.
5. Stir well until fully combined, then allow to rest for at least 24 hours in the fridge — this resting time lets the chocolate and vanilla notes fully integrate and mellow.
6. Pour into a clean, sealed bottle and store in a cool, dark place. Best consumed within 4–6 weeks for peak flavour.

That's it — one bottle of essence makes a full litre of smooth, richly flavoured crème de cacao liqueur ready for cocktails, desserts, or sipping straight over ice.

What Cocktails Can I Make With Crème de Cacao?

Crème de cacao is the backbone of some of the most iconic and beloved cocktails ever created, and your homemade version works beautifully in all of them. The classic Brandy Alexander calls for equal parts brandy, crème de cacao, and fresh cream — shaken with ice and strained into a coupe, it's one of the most indulgent cocktails you can make at home. The Grasshopper pairs crème de cacao with crème de menthe and cream for a mint-chocolate classic that doubles as a dessert. 

The B-52 shot layers coffee liqueur, Irish cream, and crème de cacao in a glass for a visually stunning layered drink. For something simpler, a Chocolate Martini combines vodka, crème de cacao, and a splash of cream, shaken hard and served ice cold. Beyond the shaker, a splash of crème de cacao stirred into a hot coffee transforms an ordinary cup into a rich mocha-style after-dinner drink.

What Alcohol Base Works Best?

For the most authentic crème de cacao liqueur result, use a clean, neutral spirit at around 38–40% ABV — a carbon-filtered home-distilled spirit or a plain store-bought vodka both work exceptionally well. The neutrality of the base allows the deep chocolate and vanilla character of the essence to come through clearly and without interference. 

Avoid aged or heavily flavoured spirit bases, as these can clash with or muddy the clean cocoa notes that define a good crème de cacao. If you prefer a darker, richer expression — closer to a dark crème de cacao style — a lightly aged neutral spirit or a very clean, subtle rum base can add a pleasant depth without overwhelming the chocolate character.

Pro Tip: For the smoothest, most decadent result, use Still Spirits Base B rather than Base A when making your crème de cacao. Base B produces a richer, creamier mouthfeel that better replicates the body of a premium commercial chocolate liqueur — and makes a noticeably superior Brandy Alexander.