Recipes 380

Liqueurs are often viewed unfavorably due to some overly sweet, mainstream brands like Amaretto or Baileys Irish Cream that can easily overpower a drink. However, contemporary liqueurs offer lighter flavors, derived from natural infusions of herbs and fresh fruit, while still adhering to classification standards of at least 100 grams of sugar per liter and a minimum alcoholic strength of 15% ABV.

With an increasing trend for low ABV beverages, liqueurs present an appealing alternative to more potent spirits such as vodka and tequila. For instance, swapping out a standard vodka soda for a liqueur mixed with soda provides a refreshing option with lower alcohol content. Liqueurs can also enhance a cocktail’s complexity; for example, Grand Marnier, which blends the flavors of cognac and bitter orange, is a classic addition to margaritas, complementing the lime juice with its citrus notes.

Here are five standout liqueurs to consider for your home bar:

Chinola Pineapple Liqueur

Chinola, known for its fresh fruit liqueurs, recently launched its Pineapple Liqueur, meticulously crafted with ripe MD2 pineapples from the Dominican Republic. Bottled at 21% ABV, it’s perfect for mixing with soda water for a simple, refreshing cocktail.

Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur

This French black raspberry liqueur, bottled at 16.5% ABV, brings a nuanced complexity to cocktails. Made from raspberries, blackberries, and blackcurrants, Chambord enhances drinks like the Chambord Royale and French Martini.

St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur

Launched in 2007, this elderflower liqueur has gained popularity, particularly during the spritz craze. With an ABV of 20%, St-Germain is vital in the popular Hugo Spritz, providing a unique alternative to traditional aperitifs.

Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto

Revived in 2016 by bartender Giuseppe Gallo, this Italian bergamot liqueur is 20% ABV and offers a distinct citrus-floral profile. Best enjoyed as an Italicus Spritz with Prosecco or soda, it showcases the liqueur’s complex aroma.

Grand Marnier

Originating in Cognac, France, Grand Marnier is made from handpicked oranges, creating a beautifully concentrated bitter orange flavor. It enhances margaritas and can substitute gin in a Tom Collins for a fresh twist.

These liqueurs not only spice up your cocktail repertoire but also cater to a growing preference for lighter, flavorful drinks.

A major supermarket chain has introduced a new collection of pre-mixed cocktails priced at significantly lower rates than larger brand options, just in time for the garden party season. These cocktails are perfect for warm days and barbecues, offering a hassle-free way to enjoy beverages.

Morrisons is now selling three flavors of these pre-mixed cocktails—Bliss on the Beach, Passion Fruit Martini, and Cosmo—in 75cl bottles for £6 each or two for £10. The Bliss on the Beach combines orange, cranberry, and vodka, while the Cosmo features vibrant notes of orange and lime. The Passion Fruit Martini brings a sweet twist with its passionfruit blend.

These ready-to-drink options not only save time but also prove to be economical, costing half as much as other pre-mixed cocktails on the market. According to Harry Barker, the Party Drinks Buyer at Morrisons, with summer approaching, they hope these fruity cocktails will enhance any summer celebration.

For an ideal serving suggestion, customers are encouraged to pour the cocktails over ice and garnish them with fruit to impress guests. The Morrisons Cocktail Collection is available both in retail stores and online across the UK.

This launch is particularly timely, coinciding with recent efforts from other brands, such as Schweppes, which has released a range of alcoholic cocktails as sales in the fizzy drink sector have seen declines.

Hustle into the new Good Night John Boy in Delray Beach, where a vibrant ’70s disco atmosphere awaits. Set to open on May 15, this nostalgic nightclub is located in the former Delray Beach Market building near Atlantic Avenue. As you step inside, you’ll encounter an explosion of harvest gold and avocado green colors, reminiscent of a pre-Reagan Era living room. Vintage decor fills the space, from corded rotary telephones and wood-paneled walls to posters of Farrah Fawcett and hanging disco balls.

The club’s co-owner, Michael Schwartz, aims to capture the essence of his childhood home in Cleveland, Ohio, which influenced the venue’s design. Schwartz reminisces about his childhood’s grungy basement, filled with nostalgic items like orange shag carpets and a collection of beer cans. The nightclub features not just a dance floor but also a variety of cocktails named after the retro vibe, such as the Dirty Ashtray and Chevy to the Levee, alongside a menu of classic bar foods.

Despite the throwback theme, Schwartz notes that the clientele is largely young, drawn in by the allure of ’70s hits like "Funkytown" and "Disco Inferno." Patrons come dressed in bell-bottoms, eager to dance the night away on a light-up floor inspired by "Saturday Night Fever."

Good Night John Boy is one of six locations across the country under the Forward Hospitality Group, founded by Schwartz and partners Dante Deiana and Bobby Rutter. Their goal is to craft immersive nightlife experiences. Schwartz suggests that the playful and intricate themes they develop reflect personal memories, creating unique environments that resonate with patrons.

For the menu, Schwartz opted for modern takes on classic favorites. Items include delicious bar pizzas like the Smokey Robinson and the Kevin Bacon, along with burgers served on Martin’s potato rolls. The drink menu features a fun collection of cocktails, including disco-themed options that offer playful twists on traditional drinks.

The grand opening on May 15 is expected to draw those eager for a taste of nostalgia mixed with a lively atmosphere at 33 SE Third Ave., Delray Beach. For more information, you can visit GoodNightJB.com/delraybeach.

Equal parts sweet and tart, strawberries herald the arrival of spring and summer, with this year’s crop in Georgia being particularly delectable. As they make their way into various food menus, bartenders are also making the most of these flavorful fruits, creating cocktails that embody the essence of fresh strawberries.

Salted Strawberry Negroni at Kimball House

In the Salted Strawberry Negroni, bartender Miles Macquarrie crafts a unique cocktail using a homemade strawberry cordial paired with a citrusy olive brine. The local Murrell’s Row Tulsi gin complements the strawberries beautifully, while Barolo Chinato enhances the drink’s jammy notes. This cocktail is perfect for sipping while enjoying the expansive patio at Kimball House, surrounded by lush greenery.

Location: Kimball House, 303 E. Howard Ave., Decatur. Phone: 404-378-3502

Petals & Juniper at O-Ku

Inspired by cherry blossoms, O-Ku’s Petals & Juniper features a clarified drink made with strawberry-infused Roku gin, dry vermouth, and black sakura tea syrup. It offers a savory and floral profile with subtle strawberry hints, perfectly complementing O-Ku’s celebrated sushi offerings.

Location: O-Ku, 1085 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta. Phone: 404-500-2383

Gambit and Rouge at Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours

Bartender Derek Fulbright gives a spring twist to the classic Vieux Carre in his Gambit and Rouge cocktail. This drink combines cognac, rye whiskey, and vermouth with a house-made strawberry-pepper syrup and bitters, showcasing a savory-sweet depth.

Location: Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, 1133 Huff Road NW, Atlanta. Phone: 404-350-5500

Strawberry Fields Negroni at Palo Santo

Palo Santo’s Strawberry Fields Negroni takes a fresh approach by using strawberry-infused gin, complemented by fennel liqueur for a vegetal roundness. This cocktail reimagines a classic while embracing the flavors of the season.

Location: Palo Santo, 955 W. Marietta St. NW, Atlanta. Phone: 678-944-8783

Bad Gurls Klub at Little Bear

Jarrett Stieber, the chef and owner of Little Bear, creates a frothy, shaken drink called Bad Gurls Klub, incorporating ripe strawberries and honeysuckle into a coconut gin base. This cocktail exemplifies the magic of local strawberries this season.

Location: Little Bear, 71 Georgia Ave. SE, Atlanta. Phone: 404-500-5396

Red at Burle’s Bar

At Burle’s Bar, the seasonal menu includes the Red cocktail, bursting with berry flavor through a combination of Old Fourth vodka, Japanese shochu, and whisky, alongside strawberries, raspberries, and ginseng, creating an intriguing and complex drink.

Location: Burle’s Bar, 505 N. Angier Ave. NE, Atlanta.

Strawberry Fields at Minhwa Spirits

At Minhwa Spirits, the Strawberry Fields cocktail features the distillery’s signature soju, lemon and lime juices, and white peach tea topped with basil foam. This drink captures fresh strawberry aromas and presents a perfect balance of garden flavors.

Location: Minhwa Spirits, 2421 Van Fleet Circle, Doraville. Phone: 470-391-2840

Elevated Mule at Tesserae

Transforming the classic mule, Tesserae uses Vida mezcal to create an elevated version infused with strawberry flavor and combined with a strawberry-coriander syrup, ginger beer, and lime juice, offering a delightful beverage with rooftop views.

Location: Tesserae at Thompson Atlanta-Buckhead, 415 E. Paces Ferry Road NE, Atlanta. Phone: 470-600-3500

Seville Sunset at Gypsy Kitchen

As spritz season arrives, Gypsy Kitchen introduces the Seville Sunset, blending Bare Bone vodka with strawberry liqueur, lemon juice, and sparkling water to create a refreshing and sweet cocktail ideal for warmer days.

Location: Gypsy Kitchen, 3035 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta. Phone: 404-939-9840

With such a variety of cocktails showcasing the season’s fresh strawberries, these bars and restaurants are making it easy to enjoy the first blush of summer in Atlanta.

Sitting down at a bar today is more like stepping onto a stage, where cocktails are crafted to be eye-catching and memorable. Drinks are no longer just beverages but elaborate experiences filled with vibrant colors, impressive glassware, and evocative garnishes. This trend has been driven by social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, where patrons eagerly share their visually stunning drinks.

Here are five standout cocktails that not only satiate your thirst but also promise a captivating presentation.

Black Widow at On St. Elmo

The Black Widow ($16) resembles a potion straight from a witch’s cauldron, with dry ice bubbling away in a lilac-hued concoction made from Empress 1908 gin, lavender syrup, and lemon juice. Served in a coupe glass adorned with a lemon peel, this cocktail provides both visual and sensory delight. Sarah Rehman, co-owner of On St. Elmo, emphasizes that the drink offers an immersive experience. Other noteworthy options include the Cotton Candy Sparkling Rosé, which features a cloud of edible glittery cotton candy that dissolves into pink sparkling rosé.

On St. Elmo, onstelmo.com

Indigo Smoke Show at Turncoat

The Indigo Smoke Show ($22) captivates with its striking indigo color, crafted using Conniption Kinship gin, dry vermouth, and lemon juice. It features a large ice cube made from butterfly pea flower tea that changes color as it melts. The cocktail is presented under a cloche filled with smoking cherry wood chips, adding an aromatic touch to this already dramatic drink. Mel Woodham, the marketing manager for Common Plate Hospitality, notes that their focus this year is on creating memorable experiences through cocktail presentations.

Turncoat, theturncoatbar.com

The Perfect Storm at The Salt Line

The Perfect Storm ($30) is a brunch cocktail served in a ceramic tiki glass shaped like a lobster, showcasing a bloody mary enhanced with a double shot of vodka. It’s garnished with an extravagant array including a cocktail shrimp, oyster, crab claw, and a skewer of pickles and olives, resembling a mini raw bar platter. This towering cocktail can be specially requested any time if the ingredients are available.

The Salt Line, thesaltline.com

Brazilian Zombie at Hip Flask

Hip Flask offers the Brazilian Zombie ($15), a fan-favorite cocktail featuring fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, cinnamon syrup, spiced rum, and cachaça. Served in a tiki glass, it’s garnished with a flaming cinnamon stick, creating a buzz among patrons who love capturing its spectacle on social media.

Hip Flask Rooftop Bar, hipflaskrooftop.com

Inflation at Gyuzo Japanese BBQ

Inflation ($13) at Gyuzo Japanese BBQ features house-infused matcha lemongrass gin, yogurt, lemon, and sake, with a unique twist—a burning replica of a $100 bill made of rice paper. This cocktail exemplifies Gyuzo’s commitment to eye-catching presentations, designed to entertain while also tantalizing the palate.

Gyuzo Japanese BBQ, gyuzobbq.com

For those looking to recreate the Brazilian Zombie at home, here’s a simple recipe to try:

Brazilian Zombie Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 1 oz cachaça
• ¾ oz fresh lime juice
• ½ oz cinnamon syrup
• ½ oz spiced rum

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
3. Pour into a tiki glass filled with cubed ice and serve.

These cocktails reflect the growing trend of experiential drinking, elevating the cocktail culture in Bethesda’s vibrant bar scene.

The Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail is set to host an exciting new event called "Wine with a Twist" from May 2 to May 4. This event invites visitors to explore nearly 20 wineries nestled between Lake Michigan and West Grand Traverse Bay, right along the 45th Parallel, known for its distinct wine offerings.

During the event, participants can indulge in a unique tasting experience that pairs traditional wine pours with creative craft cocktails. Open from noon to 5 p.m. each day, wineries will offer various wine-based cocktails, from bubbly sangrias to rosé spritzers and bold red wine margaritas.

Tickets for the event are priced at $35 per person, which includes a tasting at each participating winery and $10 in "Cork Cash" that can be used for bottle purchases. For those wishing to attend only on Sunday, a reduced ticket price of $25 is available, including $5 in Cork Cash.

Andie Hobbins, managing director of the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail, emphasizes the importance of having fun and pushing the boundaries of traditional wine tasting. The event promises to be a delightful weekend adventure for both wine enthusiasts and casual explorers. Attendees are encouraged to gather their friends, plan their stay, and prepare to enjoy a fresh take on the region’s acclaimed wines.

For additional details and to purchase tickets, visit the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail’s website.

The Kentucky Derby is fast approaching, scheduled for Saturday, May 3. To help fans celebrate the event, TODAY’s hosts Craig Melvin, Al Roker, and Dylan Dreyer have introduced two delicious cocktails that viewers can enjoy while watching the race.

The first is the classic Woodford Reserve Bourbon Mint Julep, a favorite among Derby attendees, which offers a refreshing blend of bourbon, mint, and sugar. The second cocktail is the Woodford Reserve Spire, providing a unique twist for those looking to try something different. These drinks are sure to enhance the festive atmosphere of one of horse racing’s most prestigious events.

Spring is a season of vibrant blooms and fresh fruits, making it the ideal time to enjoy refreshing cocktails that embody the essence of the season. With an array of bright and bold flavors to explore, here are ten must-try spring cocktails that are perfect for any occasion.

Gin Raspberry Lemonade

This cocktail is an invigorating treat for lemonade lovers. The gin raspberry lemonade combines the zesty flavor of lemon with Limoncello, simple syrup, and raspberries, creating a delightful drink that captures the spirit of spring.

Here is the full recipe.

French 75 Cocktail

A classic Champagne cocktail, the French 75 features gin or cognac, simple syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling wine. It’s a celebratory drink that’s perfect for spring gatherings.

Here is the full recipe.

Cucumber Elderflower Gimlet

This elegant twist on the classic gimlet brings together fresh cucumber, sweet elderflower liqueur, and tangy lime juice, along with gin, making it a delightful choice for spring.

Here is the full recipe.

Gin Blood Orange Cocktail

Experience the seasonal flavors with this gin blood orange cocktail. It blends gin with blood orange, spices, rosemary, and prosecco, creating a fragrant and refreshing drink.

Here is the full recipe.

Rhubarb Mint Margarita with Jalapeño Tequila

This cocktail uniquely balances the sweet and tangy rhubarb mint syrup with spicy jalapeño-infused tequila, offering a refreshing twist on the classic margarita.

Here is the full recipe.

Frozen Strawberry Margaritas

For those who prefer frozen drinks, these margaritas made with all-natural ingredients and frozen strawberries are easy to whip up in just ten minutes.

Here is the full recipe.

Blueberry Mojito

This fresh take on the classic mojito incorporates blueberries, white rum, coconut milk, lime, and sparkling water, making it a refreshing and fruity option.

Here is the full recipe.

Strawberry Champagne Mojito

Nothing screams spring quite like a strawberry cocktail. This bubbly drink combines strawberries with mint and champagne for a festive touch, suitable for any occasion.

Here is the full recipe.

Hibiscus Paloma Punch

Bright and floral, this punch features hibiscus, grapefruit, and sparkling rosé. It’s a gorgeous drink that works beautifully for spring celebrations and transitions seamlessly into summer.

Here is the full recipe.

Gin Daisy

With a blend of herbal and floral gin, orange liqueur, and grenadine topped with soda water, the gin daisy is a simple yet delightful cocktail that embodies the fresh flavors of spring.

Here is the full recipe.

These cocktails not only showcase seasonal ingredients but also offer a refreshing way to enjoy the springtime. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying some downtime, these drinks are sure to elevate your experience. Happy spring sipping!

It’s becoming increasingly common to encounter menus at bars and restaurants filled with agave-based cocktails, extending beyond just traditional margaritas to a diverse range that includes mezcal. No longer confined to Mexican establishments, these drinks have taken over the cocktail scene.

The Transformation of Tequila

Tequila, once viewed as the rowdy party drink of choice, has evolved significantly. Once a staple for college celebrations, it is now appreciated for its complex flavors and quality, often showcased in tasting flights and lavish venues. Tequila is no longer just a shooter; it has transformed into a luxury item that celebrities endorse, mixologists celebrate, and consumers gladly savor.

Understanding Agave

Agave plants, common to the arid regions of the Americas, are essential for producing tequila, which has roots dating back to Aztec traditions. Early forms of this spirit, like pulque, were utilized long before the advent of modern distillation techniques. The first tequila factory was established in the 1600s in Tequila, Jalisco, and officially began adhering to stringent production rules in 1974, which stipulate that it must be made in Jalisco from blue Weber agave.

Agave vs. Mezcal

While tequila is strictly regulated, mezcal is more versatile, made from a wide variety of agave plants. This variability contributes to its complex flavor, typified by a smoky aroma distinct from tequila’s sweetness. In contrast, lesser-known agave spirits like raicilla, sotol, and bacanora offer intriguing alternatives, though they remain less accessible outside Mexico.

As Cinco de Mayo approaches, Long Island boasts many establishments that expertly craft tequila and mezcal cocktails, from timeless classics to innovative creations.

Notable Places for Agave Cocktails

Besito: Classic Margarita

Located at 402 New York Ave., Huntington, Besito offers an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine alongside its traditional margaritas, renowned for their freshness. More information can be found at besitomexican.com.

T-Bar: Jalapeño-Cucumber Margarita

T-Bar, a chic venue at 1363 Old Northern Blvd, Roslyn, combines a vibrant atmosphere with a daily happy hour and a variety of margaritas, perfectly suited for any palate. Visit tbar.li for more details.

Ixchel Mexican: Cielo

At 130 Old Town Rd, Setauket-East Setauket, Ixchel offers a unique cocktail experience with options inspired by Mayan culture, including the refreshing Cielo cocktail. Check out ixchelmexicancuisine.com for their full menu.

The Green Door: Smoked Pineapple Mule

This upscale cocktail bar at 121 N. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst, is known for its inventive drinks, including the Smoked Pineapple Mule, which can be customized with mezcal. More information is available at thegreendoorlindenhurst.com.

Ruta Oaxaca: Tequila and Mezcal Flights

With locations in Patchogue and Woodbury, Ruta Oaxaca features an extensive selection of over 150 tequilas and 175 mezcals, offering educational flights and creative cocktails. Learn more at rutaoaxacamex.com.

Long Island’s cocktail scene is thriving with agave-based options that elevate the drinking experience, showcasing both tradition and innovation.

Nearly 100 bars in Center City will be participating in the return of Center City Sips, offering happy hour specials beginning June 4 and running every Wednesday through August 27. Throughout this season, from 5-7 p.m., patrons can enjoy $7 cocktails, $6 wines, and $5 beers at participating locations, along with half-price appetizers.

The lineup includes various offerings, with many establishments expected to announce their Sips menus closer to the start date. Customers can look forward to deals on seasonal drafts and popular selections such as rosé and margaritas. Notable options include $7 oysters and croquettes at Harper’s Garden, $6 "personal nachos" at Cavanaugh’s, and $10 select pies at Pizzeria Vetri.

To celebrate its 21st season, Center City Sips will kick off with a birthday party on May 21 at Dilworth Park, featuring an early 2000s theme. Admission is free, but guests can purchase ticketed upgrades for more perks.

For further information, visit the official Center City Sips page here.