The holiday season is one of occasions within the occasion.
It is a time of year when the calendar is dotted with gatherings and events, from company parties to private affairs to a simple night out with those close to you. It is also a great time to use these events to try something new and different.
There are creative cocktail recipes suited for every occasion. Taken from the pages of Making Spirits Bright, the holiday gift and hosting guide from Corby Spirit and Wine, here are some occasions and the cocktails to enjoy with them:
Friends Fête — A gathering with friends requires a party favourite cocktail. A Jameson, Ginger and Lime is quick and easy to make, while being quite refreshing. Put some ice in a rocks glass, pour in 1½ ounces of Jameson Irish Whiskey, top with three ounces of ginger ale and squeeze then drop in a lime wedge.
Mistletoe Moments — Snatch a kiss under the mistletoe, and then share a light and refreshing cocktail inspired by the iconic holiday symbol — the Absolut Mistletoe. Put a few ice cubes in a rocks glass, then add one ounce of Absolut Vodka, two ounces of cranberry juice and a splash of lime juice. Top with lemon-lime soda, and garnish with mint leaves and a red currant.
Festive Feast — Peppermint Cocoa is a cocktail perfectly suited to the season of candy canes and cold weather. It not only makes for a great finisher after a big holiday meal, but it is a simple cocktail to pull off, ensuring you’re not spending too much time away from your guests while playing bartender. In a mug, pour 1 ounce of Kahlúa Mint Mocha liqueur and three ounces of your favourite hot chocolate. Finish with a dollop of whipped cream.
Serene Solitude — Unwind and enjoy some alone time with a cocktail crafted with the uniquely Canadian Ungava Gin. To make its signature Arctic Gold cocktail, pour 1 ¼ ounce of Ungava and ¼ ounce dry white vermouth in a mixing glass with ice. Stir for 30 seconds and strain into a cocktail glass. Add a dash of grapefruit bitters, a pinch of flower salt and garnish with grapefruit zest and a sprig of rosemary.
Bright Beginnings — You don’t want to spend your New Year’s Eve stuck behind the bar. Make cocktails easy with J.P. Wiser’s Old Fashioned, perfectly pre-mixed for instant enjoyment. Simply put some ice cubes in a rocks glass and pour in the cocktail. If you are feeling fancy, add an orange peel twist for garnish.
Read the Guide at www.corby.ca/makingspiritsbright.
