Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Holiday Cocktail Recipe: The Winter Spice


Lovelies!
 
It's no secret that I love a good cocktail. I have always been intrigued by the art of crafting a delicious and perfectly balanced libation and how a well thought out specialty drink can elevate any party or celebration to next level goodness.


I love the holidays and the cold, snuggle-worthy weather that accompanies them here in the north east. To me, the holidays aren't quite complete without warming, spice-scented aromas and rich flavors and I believe that I have created the perfect cocktail to spice up your holiday gatherings this year... The Winter Spice!

 
This particular recipe was inspired by my love for the classic Manhattan and finding a new way to use my delicious (and surprisingly versatile) Royal Rose Cardamom-Clove Syrup. I am so excited to share this recipe with you. My Winter Spice Cocktail was truly a hit with my family this season and I hope you serve this crowd-pleasing holiday treat at your next party!
 
 
P.S.- If you can't get a hold of Royal Rose Cardamom-Clove Syrup you can quickly and easily make a deliciously spicy clove simple syrup at home for pennies! And you can view both recipes below. 
 
Happy Holidays, My Dears!


Cheers!
 
XOXO,
 
~Cristina~
 
 
The 'Winter Spice' Cocktail
Serves 1
 
2 ounces bourbon or spiced rum
 
1 ounce sweet vermouth
 
3 teaspoons Royal Rose Cardamom-Clove syrup
OR
3 teaspoons clove simple syrup (recipe below)
 
3 dashes orange bitters
 
Juice of one small orange wedge
 
Ginger ale or Ginger beer
 
Ice
 
Cocktail shaker or tall glass for stirring
 
Optional garnishes:
 
1 maraschino cherry
 
1 piece candied ginger
 
Orange twist
 
 
Directions:
 
Place ice in cocktail shaker or tall glass.
 
Add bourbon, vermouth, syrup, bitters, and orange juice to shaker.
 
Shake or stir to combine ingredients.  
 
Place ice in cocktail glass.
 
Strain and pour liquor mixture over ice.
 
Top with ginger ale and garnish.
 
Serve and enjoy!
 
 
Clove simple syrup recipe:
 
2 ounces whole cloves
 
1 cup water
 
1 cup granulated sugar
 
 
Directions:
 
Place all ingredients in shallow sauce pan.
 
Place sauce pan on stove and heat on medium/low heat until sugar dissolves. Stirring occasionally.
 
Once sugar is dissolved, remove pan from heat and let mixture cool completely.
 
Use immediately or let sit longer until desired clove flavor is reached.