The Cranberry Orange Mulled Sangria

The Cranberry Orange Mulled Sangria

The Cranberry Orange Mulled Sangria is a festive and aromatic hot cocktail that combines the beloved elements of sangria with the warmth of mulled wine. Infused with the vibrant tartness of cranberries, the citrusy zing of oranges, and a blend of aromatic spices, this delightful beverage is perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want to spread warmth and cheer.

• Ingredients:

• 1 bottle red wine (e.g., Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)

• 1 cup cranberry juice

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• 1/4 cup brandy

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 1 orange, thinly sliced

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4-5 whole cloves

• Optional: Star anise for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Wine

Method:

In a large saucepan, combine the red wine, cranberry juice, orange juice, brandy, and honey or maple syrup. Add the thinly sliced orange, fresh cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves to the mixture. Place the saucepan over low to medium heat, allowing the mixture to heat gently. Be cautious not to bring it to a boil to preserve the alcohol content.

Let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the fruits and spices to infuse their flavors into the sangria. Once heated, ladle the Cranberry Orange Mulled Sangria into heat-resistant glasses or mugs. Garnish each serving with a star anise for an extra layer of aroma.

The Mulled Wine

About The Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a beloved hot cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries, especially during the colder months. This comforting beverage involves heating red wine with a mix of aromatic spices and sweeteners, creating a delightful concoction that warms both the body and spirit. The combination of red wine and spices not only provides a cozy and fragrant experience but also makes it a versatile drink that can be tailored to personal taste preferences.

• Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of red wine (choose a medium to full-bodied variety like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 3-4 whole cloves

• 1 star anise

• Optional: a shot of brandy or rum for an extra kick

• Optional garnish: orange peel or cinnamon stick

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Wine

Method:

Pour the entire bottle of red wine into a large saucepan or pot. Use a wine you enjoy but avoid overly expensive ones as the flavors will be infused with spices. Stir in honey or sugar. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, considering the natural sweetness of the wine. Add the sliced orange, cinnamon stick, whole cloves, and star anise to the pot. These ingredients contribute to the rich aroma and flavor of the mulled wine.

Place the saucepan over low to medium heat. Warm the mixture gently, avoiding boiling to preserve the alcohol content. Allow the flavors to meld for at least 15-20 minutes. If desired, add a shot of brandy or rum just before serving for an extra layer of warmth and complexity. Before serving, use a fine-mesh strainer to remove the spices and citrus slices. This ensures a smooth and pleasant drinking experience.

Pour the mulled wine into heat-resistant glasses or mugs. Garnish with a twist of orange peel or a cinnamon stick for an elegant touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth.

The Winter Spice Eggnog

About The Eggnog

The Winter Spiced Eggnog is a classic and indulgent hot cocktail that embodies the festive spirit of the holiday season. Combining the creamy richness of eggnog with warm winter spices and a touch of brandy, this comforting elixir is perfect for sipping by the fire or serving at holiday gatherings for a nostalgic taste of winter warmth.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz brandy

• 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Whipped cream for garnish

• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for dusting

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       CHRISTMAS!

Method:

If not using store-bought eggnog, prepare homemade eggnog or warm the store-bought version gently in a saucepan. In a heat-resistant glass or mug, combine brandy, eggnog, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Stir well to incorporate the spices. Place the glass or mug on low heat or warm it gently in a microwave until the Winter Spiced Eggnog reaches your desired temperature. Be cautious not to bring it to a boil. Top the Winter Spiced Eggnog with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Dust the whipped cream with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

The Ve.n.to

About The Ve.n.to

The Ve.n.to is a modern and refreshing cocktail that showcases the vibrant flavors of grappa, chamomile liqueur, and citrus, with a touch of sweet from honey. This well-balanced drink offers a delightful interplay of botanicals and citrusy brightness, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a contemporary and aromatic libation.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz White Grappa

• 3/4 oz Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice

• 1/2 oz Honey Mix

• 1/2 oz Chamomile Cordial

• Grapes or lemon twist

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Medium

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Complex

Method:

Add all ingredients to the shaker Fill the shaker with ice and shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to infuse the flavors Strain the contents into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. Garnish with grapes or a lemon twist.

The Storm's Warning

About The Storm’s Warning

Meet the Storm’s Warning! This offshoot of typical island Hurricane style drinks is the brainchild of our Lead Mixologist. Switching up our usual ingredients for more regional favorites such as Guava Juice lends a more authentic flavor palette to this beverage. Make sure to serve cold and garnish accordingly.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Gold Rum

• ¾ oz. Apple Brandy

• ½ oz. Triple Sec

• 3 oz. Guava Juice

• ¾ oz. Lime Juice

• Lime Wheel, Cherry, Mint for garnish.

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:   Mild

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Fruity

Method:

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass with ice and shake until chilled. Pour into Hurricane glass and garnish accordingly.

The King

About The King

A custom creation from our Lead Mixologist, the King cocktail is a throwback recipe with a modern flavor twist. The grenadine brings out the inherent fruitiness of the rye spirit, while the rum and brandy keep the flavor bold. Try these flavors out and feel like you’re sipping on the throne with the King cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Silver Rum

• ½ oz. Rye Whiskey

• ½ oz. Brandy

• ½ oz. Grenadine

• ½ oz. Lemon Juice

• Lemon Twist

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Spirit Sweet

Method:

Pour all ingredients into a mixing glass with ice cubes. Stir well. Strain into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with lemon twist.

The Paradise

About The Paradise

The Paradise cocktail is the O.G. Gin and Juice cocktail made famous again by rapper Snoop Dogg. The cocktail originated in 1930 and was invented by famous mixologist Harry Craddock. The recipe has remained largely unchanged with the exception of variations on the amount of “juice” and brandy.

Ingredients:

• 1¼ oz. Gin

• ¾ oz. Apricot Brandy

• ½ oz. Orange Juice

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Mild

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Fruity

Method:

Shake together over ice. Strain into cocktail glass and serve chilled.

The Pisco Sour

About The Pisco Sour

The Pisco Sour is a Peruvian cocktail that is largely agreed to have originated in the 1930s in Lima, Peru. The drink's name comes from Pisco, which is its base liquor (colorless brandy), and the cocktail term sour, in reference to sour citrus juice and sweetener components. Chile and Peru both claim the Pisco Sour as their national drink, and each asserts ownership of the cocktail's base liquor.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Pisco

• 1 oz. Lemon Juice

• ⅔ oz. Simple Syrup

• 1 Egg White

• Few Dashes of Angostura Bitters

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Spirit Forward

Method:

Vigorously shake contents in a cocktail shaker with ice cubes, then strain into a glass and garnish with bitters.

The Champagne

About The Champagne

This 19th century recipe hails from the birthplace of ALL champagne; France. First listed in an 1862 guide to cocktails, the drink was later revitalized by Jerry Thomas who added a few variations to the earliest recipes. The quintessential “American” version is to omit the brandy/cognac addition. This cocktail can still be seen at New Year’s Eve events around the country.

Ingredients:

• 3 oz. Chilled Champagne

• ⅓ oz. Cognac or Brandy

• 2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters

• 1 Sugar Cube

• Orange Slice & Maraschino Cherry for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Medium

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Spiced

Method:

Add dash of Angostura bitter onto sugar cube and drop it into champagne flute. Add cognac followed by gently pouring chilled champagne. Garnish with orange slice and maraschino cherry.

The Angel Face

About The Angel Face

Another Londoner cocktail, the Angel Face appeared at the Savoy Hotel in the 1930s and was published in print that same year. The combination of brandy flavors creates a very fruity, yet strong cocktail. The recipe calls for Calvados© specifically as an ingredient, but can be substituted with apple brandy if not available.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Gin

• 1 oz. Apricot Brandy

• 1 oz. Apple Brandy (Calvados©)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Fruity

Method:

Pour all ingredients into cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes. Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

The Suffering Bastard

About The Suffering Bastard

So there are actually two versions of this cocktail but the IBA recognizes the original recipe which is listed below. Trader Vic also created a popular Tiki cocktail using the same name, however it is a tropical juice and rum variant. We chose to mirror the IBA and feature the OG Recipe featuring gin and brandy. This recipe was a “hangover cure” for WWII troops stationed in Egypt.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Gin

• 1 oz. Brandy

• ½ oz. Lime Juice

• 2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters

• Top with Ginger Beer

• Lime Wedge for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:   Mild

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Spiced

Method:

Shake everything but ginger beer with ice, pour unstrained into glass, top with ginger beer.

The Brandy Crusta

About The Brandy Crusta

First published in 1862, the Brandy Crusta is a throwback to a bygone era of cocktails. The Brandy Crusta all but vanished from the cocktail scene near the Prohibition period but has recently began a revival in New Orleans. The Crusta is an aromatic cocktail that is strongly spirit forward, so make sure to use a brand you enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Brandy

• ¼ oz. Maraschino Liqueur

• 1 Barspoon Curacao

• ½ oz. Lemon Juice

• 1 Barspoon Simple Syrup

• 2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters

• Orange/Lemon Peel for Garnish

• Sugar for Glass Rim

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Spirit Forward

Method:

Mix all ingredients with ice cubes in a mixing glass. Strain into slim cocktail glass rimmed with sugar.

The Fall White Sangria

About The Fall White Sangria

Just in time for the upcoming fall season, meet the Fall White Sangria. This crisp and refreshing recipe is simple and flavorful. The crisp blending of fruits in this sangria make for a cool and refreshing flavor without the heavy-bodied feeling of a red sangria. This recipe is sure to become one of your favorites as we delve deeper into the fall season.

Ingredients: (makes a pitcher)

• 1 750mL Bottle of Pinot Grigio (or your preference)

• 2 oz. Brandy

• 8 oz. Lemon Lime Soda

• 1 Sliced Asian Pear

• 1 Sliced Fuji Apple

• 1 Cinnamon Stick

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Mild

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Sweet

Method:

Stir all ingredients in a pitcher with cut up and peeled fruits. Refrigerate and serve after six hours.

The Red Sangria

About The Red Sangria

Meet the Empire Mixology Red Sangria. This recipe focuses on the use of red wine (obviously) with various fruits and even a bit of brandy to create that perfect springtime/autumnal wine cocktail. The following recipe is designed for a pitcher although could be scaled down to a single serving as well. Make sure to use YOUR favorite type of red wine as everyone has a unique palette for wine.

Ingredients: (makes a pitcher)

• 1 750mL Bottle of Red Wine

• ½ Cup of Brandy

• 1 Cup Orange Juice

• 8 oz. Club Soda

• ¼ Cup of Granulated Sugar

• 1 Sliced Orange

• 1 Sliced Apple

• 1 Cup of Blueberries

• 1 Cup of Sliced Strawberries

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:   Mild

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Sweet

Method:

Stir all ingredients in a pitcher with ice and cut up fruits. Serve chilled and refrigerate after serving.

The Horse's Neck

About The Horse’s Neck

Remarkably similar to cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Rye & Ginger; the Horse’s Neck is a cocktail from the late 19th century. Originally a non-alcoholic drink, the addition of originally bourbon was named the Horse’s Neck with a Kick. Brandy later became the premier spirit of choice for this recipe and with the non-alcoholic version falling out of its namesake, the cocktail simply became known as the Horse’s Neck. The addition of bitters is optional, however we highly recommend it, as it strongly diversifies the flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Brandy

• 4 oz. Ginger Ale

• Few Dashes of Angostura Bitters

• Lemon Twist for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:   Mild

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Spirit Forward

Method:

Build Brandy and Ginger Ale in highball/lowball glass with fresh ice. Stir gently. Gently add a few dashes of Angostura Bitters if desired. Garnish with lemon twist.

The Cidertini

About The Cidertini

Introducing the great fall cocktail. Fall includes some of our favorite flavors like cinnamon, apples, pumpkin and more. So why not celebrate in style with a delicious apple flavored martini? But not just a simple appletini will do, why not give the Cidertini a shot instead.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. Caramel Vodka

• 0.5 oz. Apple Brandy

• 3 oz. Apple Cider

• Pinch of Cinnamon

• Apple Slice, Cinnamon Stick, Brown Sugar for garnish.

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:        5 Stars

• Served:      Cocktail Glass

• Strength:    Medium

• Difficulty:    Medium

• Flavor:        Spiced

Method:

Place all ingredients except cinnamon and garnishes in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled sugar and cinnamon rimmed martini glass. Garnish with a dash of cinnamon, an apple slice, and a cinnamon stick.

The Porto Flip

About The Porto Flip

Say hello to the long forgotten and formerly extremely popular Porto Flip Cocktail. First officially referenced in the mid 1800s, this recipe was almost completely lost after the turn of the century. Although the ingredients may make you cringe this cocktail is actually fairly sweet and creamy with a strong spirit flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz brandy

• 3/4 oz port wine

• 1/4 oz simple syrup

• 1 whole egg

• Nutmeg (for garnish)

• Ice

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Spirit

Method:

Put all ingredients (yes, even the egg yolk) into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake very well. Strain into a martini glass. Garnish with grated nutmeg and enjoy? Maybe?