There are several types of orange liqueurs. While the orange base is the same, there are some differences. DIY orange liqueur is a cost-effective alternative to expensive top-shelf brands like Grand Marnier or Cointreau. Cointreau is made from a blend of sweet and bitter orange peels and is considered a higher quality than triple sec which is traditionally made from bitter orange peels. Cointreau has a higher alcohol content than a most triple sec, usually at 40% alcohol by volume, while triple sec is usually bottled at around 15-30% alcohol by volume. While triple sec has a sweeter and less complex flavor, Cointreau stands out with its well-balanced, smooth, and complex flavor. Orange curaçao, on the other hand, is very similar and focuses on dried bitter orange peels. If you add brandy, it becomes a replica of darker orange liqueurs like Grand Marnier.