The question "How many shots are in one Monaco?" reveals a common point of confusion rooted in the fact that two very different drinks share the same name. On one hand, you have the popular, modern ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail brand, Monaco Cocktails. On the other, there is a classic, low-alcohol beer cocktail originating from France. For the canned version, the answer is straightforward, but for the traditional drink, the number is zero.
The Canned Monaco: A Modern Twist
For most people in the United States, a "Monaco" refers to the ready-to-drink canned cocktail from the brand Monaco Cocktails. These cocktails are known for their high alcohol content and convenience.
The Two-Shot Advantage
Each 12-ounce can of Monaco Cocktails is clearly advertised as containing "two shots" of premium spirits. This translates to a potent 9% Alcohol By Volume (ABV). Compared to a standard 12-ounce beer at around 5% ABV, a single can of Monaco contains roughly double the amount of pure alcohol. The spirits used vary by flavor, with some varieties featuring vodka, gin, rum, and tequila in a single can, while others, like the Tequila Lime Crush, focus on a specific spirit.
Not All Cans Are Created Equal
While the most prominent Monaco products are spirit-based, the company also produces wine- and malt-based versions of its most popular flavors in some regions to comply with state liquor laws. Regardless of the base, the ABV is always 9%, and the "two shots" equivalency is a consistent feature of the product line.
The Classic French Monaco: A Beer Cocktail
In France and other parts of Europe, a "Monaco" is a classic beer cocktail, entirely different from its canned namesake. It's a simple, refreshing, and low-alcohol drink, similar to a shandy, and contains no hard liquor.
The Simple, Low-Alcohol Recipe
The traditional recipe is uncomplicated and relies on a light lager or pilsner beer. The ingredients and proportions are typically as follows:
- 5 oz (150 ml) of cold, light beer (e.g., lager, pilsner)
- 2 oz (60 ml) of cold, carbonated lemonade (like Sprite or 7-Up)
- ½ oz (15 ml) of grenadine syrup
How to Make a Traditional Monaco
Making this version of the cocktail is simple and focuses on achieving a layered effect reminiscent of the red and white Monegasque flag.
- Add Grenadine: Pour the grenadine syrup into the bottom of a chilled beer glass.
- Add Lemonade: Slowly pour the cold lemonade over the grenadine.
- Top with Beer: Gently pour the cold beer into the glass, allowing the layers to form naturally. Stirring can be done gently just before drinking.
Canned Monaco vs. Traditional Monaco: A Comparison
| Feature | Canned Monaco (RTD) | Traditional Monaco (Beer Cocktail) |
|---|---|---|
| Shots of Liquor | 2 shots of premium spirits | 0 shots (beer-based) |
| Alcohol Base | Spirits (Vodka, Tequila, etc.), Wine, or Malt | Beer |
| Alcohol by Volume (ABV) | 9% ABV | Varies based on beer, typically much lower (approx. 2.5-4.5%) |
| Main Ingredients | Proprietary mix of spirits, flavors, and soda | Beer, lemonade, grenadine |
| Preparation | Ready to drink, just chill and open | Poured and mixed in a glass |
| Overall Strength | High, equivalent to a strong cocktail | Low, a refreshing, light drink |
The Significance of Alcohol Content
Understanding the vast difference in alcohol content is crucial for responsible consumption. A canned Monaco's 9% ABV contains significantly more alcohol than a standard 12 oz beer, which typically sits at around 5% ABV. A traditional French Monaco, by contrast, is a far more sessionable drink, often having a lower ABV than the original beer due to the added lemonade. This means that consuming one canned Monaco is not equivalent to drinking one of the classic cocktails, and it's important to be aware of the difference to gauge your intake accurately.
Conclusion
The number of shots in one Monaco depends entirely on which version of the drink you mean. A canned Monaco from the brand of the same name contains two shots of spirits and is 9% ABV. The classic French Monaco, however, is a low-alcohol beer cocktail and contains no shots of liquor. To avoid any confusion, simply remember: the canned, high-ABV variety has two shots, while the traditional beer-based version has none. For more detailed information on the canned products, refer to the official Monaco Cocktails FAQ.
