The Dragon Fruit Margarita

About The Dragon Fruit Margarita

The Dragon Fruit Margarita is a bold and vibrant twist on the classic margarita, blending the tangy brightness of fresh lime juice with the tropical sweetness of dragon fruit—either puréed or infused—paired with tequila and a touch of orange liqueur. Its vivid pink hue and exotic flavor profile make it as eye-catching as it is refreshing. Often served over ice and finished with a salted or chili-lime rim, this modern margarita variation brings a splash of tropical flair to any occasion, perfect for summer sipping or adding a colorful highlight to cocktail menus.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Tequila

• 1 oz. Triple Sec

• ½ oz. Lime Juice

• 2 oz. Dragon Fruit Juice

• 1 Cup of Ice

• Salt (for rim of glass)

• Dragonfruit for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      Frozen

• Strength:    Medium

• Difficulty:    Simple

• Flavor:        Plain

Method:

To make juice, hollow out two red dragon fruit and place fruit into blender. Blend on high for 30-60 seconds. Strain through fine mesh strainer and discard solids.

Blend all ingredients with ice until well mixed. Strain into margarita glass rimmed with salt.

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The Dragon Fruit Margarita is garnished with a striking slice of dried dragon fruit from Bar Necessities Co., adding vibrant color and a touch of tropical elegance. Explore their full line of premium garnishes at https://www.barnecessities.co/.

The Dragon Fruit Mojito

About The Dragon Fruit Mojito

The Dragon Fruit Mojito is an Empire Mixology original that reimagines the iconic Cuban cocktail with a vibrant, tropical flair. This refreshing creation combines fresh mint, lime juice, and white rum with the exotic sweetness and striking color of dragon fruit purée. Lightly sweetened and topped with sparkling soda water, the Dragon Fruit Mojito is both visually stunning and irresistibly smooth—offering a balance of herbal coolness and tropical fruit that makes it perfect for summer soirées, rooftop gatherings, or anytime you want to impress with something uniquely bold and refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 1 Dragon Fruit

• 2 Lime Wedges

• 2 Lime Wheels

• 7-8 Mint Leaves

• 2.5 oz. Silver Rum

• 1 oz. Simple Syrup

• Lemon-Lime Soda

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:    Light

• Difficulty:   Complex

• Flavor:       Sweet

Empire Tip: Don’t like all the floating chunks of dragon fruit? Strain the muddled dragon fruit, lime, and mint before pouring into the drinking glass.

Method:

Halve dragon fruit and cut one of the halves into six or seven thin slices. Separate the flesh from the skin of three slices and add into building glass. Cut the exterior skin (leafy part) from the inner skin and add the inner skin into the glass as well.

Muddle lime wedge and simple syrup. Add mint leaves and gently muddle.

In the serving glass, use a melon baller on the remaining halve of dragon fruit and add three balls of dragon fruit into the glass along with a lime wheel. Then pour the muddled ingredients from the building glass into the serving glass.

Add crushed ice until glass is 2/3 full. Add a lime wedge, remaining mint leaves, and additional dragon fruit balls until full.

Add 2.5 oz. of Silver Rum or more depending on your preference, and then top with lemon-lime soda. Garnish with lime wheel and extra mint if desired and serve with a straw.

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The Dragon Fruit Mojito is topped with a stunning dried dragon fruit slice from Bar Necessities Co., adding a bold pop of color and exotic flair to this vibrant Empire Mixology original. Explore their premium garnishes at https://www.barnecessities.co/.

The Frosé

The Frosé

Meet the pinnacle of our Valentine’s Day cocktail series. The Frosé is a fun and flavorful cocktail that includes perennial favorite rosé wine and the fruity flavors of fresh watermelon and strawberries. This cocktail is perfect for date night or just keeping cool in the summer heat as well. There’s nothing quite like the combination of sweet watermelon and tart strawberry. We originally used Castello del Poggio’s Sweet Rosé line for this recipe. We highly recommend using fresh fruit and freezing it yourself to guarantee ingredient quality, however the store-bought frozen fruit works just as well. Try our luxurious libation recipe and keep cool in the heat and have fun that can’t be beat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Rosé Wine to (preference)

• 1 cup frozen watermelon

• 1 cup frozen strawberries

• 2 tablespoons sugar

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      Frozen

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Fruity

Method:

Place all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Add more ice for a thicker consistency. Serve immediately garnished with fresh fruit.

The Three Dots & A Dash

About The Three Dots & A Dash

The Three Dots and a Dash is a quintessential tiki cocktail that masterfully balances spice, sweetness, and tropical flair. Named for the Morse code for “V” (symbolizing victory in WWII), this exotic drink blends AOC Martinique rhum agricole vieux, blended aged rum, Velvet Falernum, allspice dram, honey syrup, and freshly squeezed lime and orange juice, finished with a dash of Angostura bitters. The result is a rich, layered cocktail with deep spice notes, bright citrus, and the earthy complexity of aged rums. Traditionally garnished with three maraschino cherries and a pineapple frond, it’s as bold in appearance as it is in flavor; a true celebration of tiki heritage and craftsmanship.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Rhum Agricole

• ½ oz. Blended Aged Rum

• ¼ oz. Falernum

• ¼ oz. Allspice Dram

• ½ oz. Honey Syrup

• ½ oz. Lime Juice

• Dash of Angostura Bitters

• 3 Maraschino Cherries for Garnish

• 1 Pineapple Piece for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Blended

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Tropical

Method:

Add the rhum agricole, blended rum, falernum, allspice dram, honey syrup, lime juice, orange juice and bitters to a drink mixer tin. Lightly stir and transfer to blender. Only flash-blend for a moment and then pour into footed Pilsner glass. Garnish with three cherries on a cocktail pick and a pineapple.

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The Three Dots & a Dash is beautifully elevated with a vibrant dried pineapple garnish from Bar Necessities Co., lending an inviting tropical aroma and stunning visual detail. Discover their artisan garnish collection at https://www.barnecessities.co/.

The Missionary's Downfall

About The Missionary's Downfall

The Missionary’s Downfall is a lush, garden-fresh tiki cocktail that blends tropical fruit with cooling herbs for a uniquely refreshing experience. This vintage classic combines mint leaves, light gold rum, peach schnapps, honey syrup, pineapple juice, and fresh lime juice, resulting in a smooth, slightly sweet drink with vibrant herbal and stone fruit notes. Blended or shaken and served over crushed ice, it’s a low-proof, flavor-packed cocktail that showcases the softer side of tiki; bright, breezy, and impossibly easy to sip.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Light Gold Rum

• ½ oz. Peach Schnapps

• 1⁄3 oz. Honey Syrup

• ½ oz. Pineapple Juice

• ½ oz. Lime Juice

• 13 Mint Leaves

• Mint and Pineapple for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Sweet

Method:

Add all ingredients into a blender with 3/4 cup of ice and blend for about 20 seconds. Pour into a Collins glass and garnish with mint and pineapple.

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The Missionary’s Downfall is beautifully elevated with a vibrant dried pineapple garnish from Bar Necessities Co., lending an inviting tropical aroma and stunning visual detail. Discover their artisan garnish collection at https://www.barnecessities.co/.

The Gin Basil Smash

About The Gin Basil Smash

The Gin Basil Smash is a modern classic that delivers garden-fresh vibrancy in a crisp and herbaceous format. Created in 2008 by Jörg Meyer in Hamburg, this cocktail combines the clean botanicals of London Dry gin with the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice, a touch of rich cane syrup, and a generous handful of fresh basil leaves; muddled to release their aromatic oils. Shaken and served over ice, the result is a refreshing, green-tinged cocktail that’s as eye-catching as it is flavorful; perfect for warm weather and fans of herbal-forward drinks.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. London Dry Gin

• ¾ oz. Lemon Juice

• 1⁄3 oz. Monin Pure Cane Syrup

• 12 Basil Leaves

• Basil Sprig for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Floral

Method:

Muddle basil sprigs in base of shaker. Add other ingredients and shake with ice. Strain into chilled glass.

The Sherry Cobbler

About The Sherry Cobbler

The Sherry Cobbler is a timeless, refreshing cocktail that dates back to the 19th century and helped popularize the use of straws in drinking culture. This elegant sipper combines Amontillado and Palo Cortado sherries for a rich, nutty base with subtle oxidative complexity. Lightly sweetened with a touch of sugar and brightened by muddled orange and lemon wheels, the Sherry Cobbler is served over crushed ice for maximum refreshment. Delicate, low in alcohol, and beautifully balanced, it’s the perfect showcase for fine sherry and a staple of classic cocktail revivalism.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Amontillado Sherry

• 1½ oz. Palo Cortado Sherry

• 1 tsp. Sugar

• ½ Orange Wheel

• ½ Lemon Wheel

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       3.5 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Wine

Method:

Combine ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake, and pour over a glass filled with crushed ice.

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The Sherry Cobbler is beautifully garnished with vibrant dried blood orange and lemon slices from Bar Necessities Co., adding a zesty visual flourish and enhanced citrus aroma. Explore their artisan garnishes at https://www.barnecessities.co/.

The Jungle Bird

About The Jungle Bird

The Jungle Bird is a tropical cocktail with a sophisticated twist, blending the richness of black rum with the bold bitterness of Campari. Balanced by pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, and a touch of demerara syrup, this drink offers a unique harmony of sweet, bitter, and tart flavors. Originally created in the 1970s at the Kuala Lumpur Hilton, the Jungle Bird stands out in the tiki world for its use of a bitter aperitif, giving it depth and complexity beneath its fruity surface. Served over ice and garnished with tropical flair, it’s a modern classic that delights both adventurous palates and tiki lovers alike.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Dark Rum

• ¾ oz. Campari

• 1½ oz. Pineapple Juice

• ½ oz. Lime Juice

• ½ oz. Demerara Syrup

• 1 Pineapple Piece for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      On the Rocks

• Strength:   Strong

• Difficulty:  Simple

• Flavor:       Sweet yet Bitter

Method:

Shake with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.

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This Jungle Bird is elegantly finished with a premium dried pineapple garnish from Bar Necessities Co., adding a sweet, tropical touch and beautiful visual appeal. Check out their full garnish collection at https://www.barnecessities.co/.

The Chartreuse Swizzle

About The Chartreuse Swizzle

The Chartreuse Swizzle is a vibrant, tropical-meets-herbal cocktail that delivers bold complexity in a refreshingly cool format. Built with Green Chartreuse (or a similar herbal liqueur), falernum, pineapple juice, and fresh lime juice, this swizzle-style drink balances intense botanical notes with sweet spice and bright citrus. Served over crushed ice in a tall glass and gently swizzled until frosty, the result is a layered, invigorating cocktail that’s as visually striking as it is flavor-packed; perfect for warm-weather sipping or impressing with tiki elegance.

Ingredients:

• 1½ oz. Green Chartreuse

• ½ oz. Falernum

• 1½ oz. Pineapple Juice

• ¾ oz. Fresh Lime Juice

• Pineapple Wedge, Grated Nutmeg, Cherry for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Crushed Ice

• Strength:   Medium

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Sweet

Method:

Fill a Collins glass with crushed ice about halfway and add ingredients. Swizzle glass and add more ice. Garnish accordingly.

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This Chartreuse Swizzle is elegantly finished with a premium dried pineapple garnish from Bar Necessities Co., adding a sweet, tropical touch and beautiful visual appeal. Check out their full garnish collection at https://www.barnecessities.co/.

The Don’s Special Daiquiri

About The Don’s Special Daiquiri

Don’s Special Daiquiri is a tropical, rum-forward creation that showcases the depth of Caribbean flavors with a balanced and exotic flair. Crafted with a blend of Gold Jamaican rum and Cuban rum, this cocktail is elevated by the tangy sweetness of passion fruit syrup, the brightness of fresh lime juice, and the smooth richness of honey syrup. The result is a vibrant, refreshing drink with layers of tropical fruit, citrus zing, and warm rum character—true to the tiki tradition pioneered by Don the Beachcomber.

Ingredients:

• 1 oz. Gold Jamaican Rum

• 1/2 oz Cuban Rum

• 1/2 oz Passion Fruit Syrup

• 1/2 oz. Fresh Lime Juice

• 1/2 oz. Honey Syrup

• Passion Fruit Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      Crushed Ice

• Strength:   Medium

• Difficulty:  Medium

• Flavor:       Sweet

Method:

Blend for a few seconds in a milkshake mixer with crushed ice and pour into a footed coupe glass.

Fill the glass with more crushed ice.

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The Don’s Special Daiquiri cocktail is topped with a stunning dried lime wheel from Bar Necessities Co.—bringing visual flair and citrus aroma to every pour. Visit them at https://www.barnecessities.co/.

The Remember the Maine

About The Remember the Maine

The Remember the Maine cocktail is a richly complex, Prohibition-era classic that blends the bold character of rye whiskey with the herbal depth of sweet vermouth, a touch of cherry liqueur (typically Cherry Heering), and a whisper of absinthe. Named after the rallying cry tied to the sinking of the USS Maine in 1898, this cocktail balances sweetness, spice, and subtle bitterness with a smoky, aromatic edge. Traditionally stirred and served up in a chilled coupe, Remember the Maine is a moody, sophisticated sipper that evokes intrigue and history with every pour.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Rye Whiskey

• 1 oz. Sweet Vermouth

• ½ oz. Cherry Brandy Luxardo

• Rinse Absinthe

• Brandied Cherry for Garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      Neat

• Strength:  Strong

• Difficulty: Medium

• Flavor:       Spirit Forward

Method:

Coat coupe glass with absinthe. In a mixing glass, add other ingredients with ice, stir until chilled, and strain into coupe glass.

The Smoked Chocolate Chili Mocha

The Smoked Chocolate Chili Mocha

The Smoked Chocolate Chili Mocha is a luxurious and bold hot cocktail that combines the richness of chocolate, the warmth of chili, and the smokiness of bourbon. This indulgent beverage is a treat for the senses, offering a perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and depth of flavor. It's an ideal choice for those who appreciate a touch of sophistication and a hint of adventure in their hot cocktails.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz bourbon

• 1 oz chocolate liqueur

• 1/2 oz chili-infused simple syrup

• 1/2 oz smoked cinnamon syrup

• 1 cup hot brewed coffee

• Whipped cream for garnish

• Grated dark chocolate or cocoa powder for garnish

Chili-Infused Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1-2 chili peppers (sliced, seeds removed)

Smoked Cinnamon Syrup:

• Smoked Cinnamon Syrup:

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2-3 cinnamon sticks

• Wood chips for smoking (e.g., applewood or hickory)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.5 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Peppermint

Method:

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and sliced chili peppers. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the syrup to infuse with chili flavor. Remove from heat, let it cool, and strain out the chili slices.

In a separate saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves. Once sugar is dissolved, add wood chips to a smoking gun or smoker and smoke the syrup. Let it sit covered for a few minutes to infuse the smoky flavor. Strain out the cinnamon sticks.

Prepare a cup of hot brewed coffee using your preferred method. In a heat-resistant glass or mug, combine bourbon, chocolate liqueur, chili-infused simple syrup, and smoked cinnamon syrup. Pour the hot brewed coffee over the bourbon-chocolate mixture. Stir well to combine.

Top the cocktail with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with grated dark chocolate or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

The Smoky Maple Bacon Bourbon Cocoa

The Smoky Maple Bacon Bourbon Cocoa

The Smoky Maple Bacon Bourbon Cocoa is a luxurious and flavor-packed hot cocktail that combines the rich notes of chocolate, the warmth of bourbon, the sweetness of maple, and the savory essence of bacon. This indulgent beverage is a treat for those who appreciate a delightful interplay of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors in their hot drinks.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz bourbon

• 1 oz chocolate liqueur

• 1/2 oz pure maple syrup

• 1/2 oz smoked bacon-infused simple syrup

• 1 cup hot milk (whole milk or a milk alternative)

• Whipped cream for garnish

• Crispy bacon bits for garnish

Smoked Bacon-Infused Simple Syrup:

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 4-5 strips of cooked bacon

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4.0 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Rich

Method:

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and cooked bacon strips. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the syrup to infuse with the smoky bacon flavor. Remove from heat, let it cool, and strain out the bacon bits.

Heat the milk in a saucepan or using a steam wand until hot but not boiling. In a heat-resistant glass or mug, combine bourbon, chocolate liqueur, pure maple syrup, and smoked bacon-infused simple syrup. Pour the hot milk over the bourbon-chocolate mixture. Stir well to combine.

Top the cocktail with a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the top.

The Cardamom Chai White Russian

The Cardamom Chai White Russian

The Cardamom Chai White Russian is a modern and aromatic twist on the classic White Russian cocktail, infusing it with the exotic flavors of cardamom and spiced chai. This hot cocktail combines the rich and velvety elements of the traditional White Russian with the warmth of chai tea, creating a cozy and indulgent drink that's perfect for chilly evenings.

• Ingredients:

• 1 cup chai tea (strongly brewed and cooled)

• 1/2 cup vodka

• 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 2 tablespoons cardamom syrup (homemade or store-bought)

• Ice (optional, for serving)

Cardamom Syrup:

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 8-10 cardamom pods, lightly crushed

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Rich

Method:

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and crushed cardamom pods. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse flavors. Remove from heat and let it cool. Strain out cardamom pods, and store the syrup in a sealed container.

Brew a strong cup of chai tea and let it cool to room temperature. You can use chai tea bags or loose-leaf tea, depending on your preference. nIn a shaker, combine the cooled chai tea, vodka, coffee liqueur, and cardamom syrup. Shake well to combine. If serving hot, warm your glass by running it under hot water. If serving cold, fill the glass with ice. Pour the shaken mixture over ice or into the warmed glass. Slowly pour the heavy cream over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.

Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of ground cardamom or a cinnamon stick. Stir before sipping to combine the flavors.

The Spiced Maple Bourbon Cider

The Spiced Maple Bourbon Cider

The Spiced Maple Bourbon Cider is a delightful and warming hot cocktail that captures the essence of autumn in a cup. Combining the robust flavors of bourbon, the sweetness of maple, and the comforting warmth of spiced apple cider, this beverage is a perfect choice for cozy evenings by the fireplace or as a festive addition to autumn gatherings.

• Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon

• 1 oz pure maple syrup

• 1 cup spiced apple cider

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 3 whole cloves

• Orange zest for garnish

• Optional: Star anise for garnish

Cocktail Profile

• Rating:       4 Stars

• Served:      Hot

• Strength:   Light

• Difficulty:  Complex

• Flavor:       Sweet

Method:

In a saucepan, heat the spiced apple cider over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick and whole cloves. Allow the cider to simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse the spices. Remove from heat.

In a heat-resistant glass or mug, combine bourbon and pure maple syrup. Pour the spiced apple cider over the bourbon and maple syrup mixture. Stir well to combine. Garnish the cocktail with a cinnamon stick, a twist of orange zest, and if desired, a star anise for an extra layer of aroma.

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 Berry Bomb

About The Berry Bomb

The Berry Bomb is a fruity and refreshing bomb shot that blends the flavors of berry-infused vodka, blue curaçao, and a splash of cranberry juice.

• Ingredients:

• 1/2 oz Berry-Infused Vodka

• 1/2 oz Blue Curaçao

• Splash of Cranberry Juice

• Glass of Lemon-Lime Soda

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.0 Stars

• Served: Neat

• Strength: Mild

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Sweet

Method:

In a shot glass, pour 1/2 ounce of berry-infused vodka. The berry-infused vodka brings a burst of berry flavors to the shot. Add 1/2 ounce of blue curaçao to the shot glass. Blue curaçao adds a vibrant blue color and a citrusy, orange flavor to the mix. Finish with a splash of cranberry juice. The cranberry juice adds a touch of tartness and complements the overall fruity profile. Drop the shot glass into a larger glass containing a lemon-lime soda.

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 Detto Bomb

About The Detto Bomb

The Detto Bomb is a creative and vibrant bomb shot that combines the citrusy notes of orange liqueur with the smoothness of vanilla vodka, all topped with the effervescence of lemon-lime soda. Here's a simple recipe for the Detto Bomb:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 oz Vanilla Vodka

• 1/2 oz Triple Sec (orange liqueur)

• Lemon-Lime Soda (Sprite or 7UP)

Cocktail Profile

• Rating: 4.0 Stars

• Served: Neat

• Strength: Mild

• Difficulty: Simple

• Flavor: Sweet

Method:

In a shot glass, pour 1/2 ounce of vanilla vodka. The vanilla vodka adds a subtle sweetness and smoothness to the shot. Add 1/2 ounce of triple sec (orange liqueur) to the shot glass. The triple sec brings citrusy and orange flavors to the mix. Fill a larger glass with lemon-lime soda (Sprite or 7UP). The shot glass is then dropped into the larger glass, and the combined drink is consumed quickly.