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Exclusive Look: Sipping Cocktails at the Real Downton Abbey — A Lavish Party Inside Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle’s own gin brand was celebrated at a special evening party at the home of Downton Abbey
Highclere Castle Gin
In the home of fictional Downton Abbey during the height of the COVID pandemic, the real lady of the house enjoyed sharing a new concept: Virtual cocktail hour with tens of thousands of online guests.
On Sept. 19, as the sun set on a late summer day, Lady Carnarvon — or ‘Lady C’ as her staff affectionately calls her — and her husband Lord Carnarvon hosted guests at the magnificent home, which doubles as the TV location.
Highclere House, located about 65 miles west of London, serves as the backdrop for the beloved TV and movie series, with a new film scheduled for release next September. On this particular evening, the event showcased the art of hosting in the 17th century castle as it might have occurred in historical times.
Highclere Castle Gin
Similar to the fictional butler Mr. Carson from Downton Abbey, Highclere’s Luis Coelho adeptly mixed and served cocktails in the grand hall. Highclere Castle’s own gin brand was the highlight of this special evening.
The event featured the “Lavender Lady,” a cocktail composed of Highclere gin, lavender syrup created by Coelho, aquafaba, and lemon juice. Another standout was the “Brit 75,” a concoction of gin infused with butterfly pea blossoms giving it a lilac hue, mixed with lemon juice and sparkling wine, naturally sourced from Highclere.
Also on the drink menu was a classic gin and tonic with a signature sprig of rosemary, and a Negroni.
A post shared by Highclere Castle (@highclere_castle)
“A few years ago, 80,000 people watched us drink cocktails, getting dressed up to join us online,” Lady Carnarvon said proudly. “There are around 80 here today.”
Since those virtual parties, the gin brand has thrived in the niche gin market, using botanicals from the orangery at the stately home’s garden, or tapping into history to create new versions.
Highclere Castle Gin
In the library of the expansive estate with over 250 rooms, family photos and portraits are comfortably displayed, including those of the late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, showcasing their connections with the British royal lineage (Lord Carnarvon was one of Queen Elizabeth’s godsons).
Accompanied by nostalgic tunes from the post-Second World War era, Brandyn Shaw and his orchestra delivered a performance at the end of the library.
Related: Queen Elizabeth’s Godson (and Real-Life ‘Downton Abbey’ Owner) Creates New Gin in Time for Holidays
As he surveyed the vast hall, Lord Carnarvon remarked to his visitors, “My ancestors were renowned hosts. Imagine the lavish gatherings the 5th Earl would have thrown! No doubt, gin cocktails were in abundance.”
Highclere Castle Gin
The castle has been a focal point for royalty, politicians, literary and musical icons. Yet, it gained worldwide recognition through a television series, as seen in various rooms. Portraits and scenes from Downton Abbey featuring Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, and Michelle Dockery are displayed on easels in the library, drawing room, and hallway, showing visitors the settings of the popular drama.
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Highclere Castle Gin
They have recently bid farewell to the Downton Abbey crew after 12 weeks of on-site filming completed, with the film now progressing to its next production stages, slated for release in September 2025.
Like countless fans, Lady C is eagerly awaiting to see how the narrative unfolds.
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Revealed: America’s Top 3 Favorite Cocktails—With Two States Bucking the Trend
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It’s no secret that we love our cocktails here at Delish. We have recipes upon recipes for boozy (or zero-proof) libations tailored to the season or spirit. Tequila cocktails? Check. Fall cocktails? We’ve got 45 of ’em. So we were curious: what’s the most popular cocktail in each state?
With some help from the team, we were able to pinpoint the most sought-after cocktails in the country. Google Trends researchers pulled data that found the top 25 most-searched cocktails and then identified which of those was most searched in the past year, state by state. And we are pretty surprised by the results.
A majority of states’ most-searched cocktail is one of three drinks: margarita, martini, and old fashioned. I suppose the consensus is that you can’t go wrong with classics.
Only two states deviated from this pattern: Hawaii and Louisiana. The mai tai is the most-searched cocktail in Hawaii, and the daiquiri in Louisiana.
Want to know your state’s most popular cocktail? Let’s break it down:
32 states like the margarita: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wyoming
9 states like martinis: Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont
7 states favor the old fashioned: Alaska, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, South Dakota, Wisconsin, West Virginia
Interested in mastering one of these beloved beverages? In addition to recipes, we offer a plethora of suggestions for equipping your bar cart. Discover our favorite selections for anything from tequila and gin to non-alcoholic spirits. Also, remember the glassware.
Do you concur with your state’s favorite cocktail?
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Nordstrom NYC Men’s Store Adds a Twist: Serving Unique Cocktails
Luxury stores and select specialty stores are known to pop a Champagne cork or two for top-tier shoppers on occasion.
While libations can lead to more indulgent spending, Nordstrom is serving up a new spin on its cocktails-infused concept. Thanks to a collaboration with the team behind the New York Cocktail Company and the Greenwich Village café Dante, Nordstrom NYC’s men’s store has debuted a speakeasy-inspired bar in the Clubhouse. Through November, shoppers can raise a glass or two while checking out the men’s brands on the store’s second floor.
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The pop-up is an extension of the Nordstrom and Dante partnership highlighted in the “Nordstrom for Everything New York” campaign, which celebrates Nordstrom as a destination for everything a New Yorker would need. Created by the New York-based agency Mojo Supermarket, the campaign was unveiled May 27. Along with Dante, the ads play up three other New York City destinations — the historic Apollo Theater in Harlem, the Upper West Side restaurant Barney Greengrass and Casa Magazines. The campaign, and the activations, are meant to not only raise awareness for these only-in-New-York businesses but also to drum up interest in the retailer’s flagship at West 57th and Broadway, which opened in October 2019.
The just-opened pop-up has been seeing a good amount of interest in NYCC’s ready-to-serve classic Negronis but browsers or buyers can also can enjoy NYCC’s Mezcalito, chocolate and espresso Negronis. There are also pick-me-ups from Dante like cheese and charcuterie boards, Marcona almonds and marinated olives. Having first welcomed diners in 1915 to its Greenwich Village eatery, Dante is a New York institution.
Linden Pride, owner of Dante and cofounder of NYCC, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Nordstrom. He conveyed via email the natural fit of the partnership, citing Nordstrom’s celebrated status in NYC and beyond. He was enthusiastic about bringing New York Cocktail Company and Dante to Nordstrom, anticipating it to be a delightful addition for those who savor cocktails and Negronis.
The Negroni, consisting of gin, vermouth, and Campari in equal measures, topped the list of the most-sold drinks in 2022. This was highlighted in Drinks International’s 2022 World’s Best-Selling Classic Cocktails list.
At the Nordstrom location, no reservations are necessary to enjoy the 300-square-foot space named New York Cocktail Company Presents Dante. Positioned near the men’s tailoring section, the setup offers a convenient stop. Though the staff’s advice may be free, the Negronis have a cost, ranging from $18 to $20. The Dante bar snacks are also available, priced between $7 and $47, depending on the portion size desired.
The relationship between department stores and alcoholic drinks goes way back. Even during the 1920s Prohibition era, when many liquor providers were shut down and speakeasies emerged, major retailers advertised cocktail shakers and related accessories in newspaper ads.
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Exploring the Surge of Asian-Inspired Cocktails in Global Mixology
Based on recent drink sales trends, imbibers are craving ingredients like yuzu, matcha and pandan in their cocktails.
A lychee martini.
The rise of Asian-inspired cocktails is gaining momentum in the beverage industry, with traditional ingredients like yuzu, matcha and shiso finding their way onto cocktail menus across the globe. What began with the popularization of the Lychee Martini in the 1990s has evolved into a broader incorporation of flavors from across Asia, reflecting both consumer demand and the creativity of bartenders.
Consumer demand for Asian ingredients surged in 2024, with purchases rising 20% compared to the previous year, according to Numerator. And industry observers point out the increased and widespread use of Asian flavors and spirits on many of the cocktail menus on 50 Best Bars lists.
The lychee martini is particularly favored by patrons at bars. Oscar Muñoz, who oversees food and beverages at POSI + IVO located in the Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Puerto Rico, acknowledges the significant influence the Lychee Martini has had in ushering these ingredients into prominence.
“The Lychee Martini was a turning point for modern cocktail scenes, bringing to Western tastes the subtle sweetness and distinct flavor of lychee,” he explains to Forbes, noting that its success also encouraged the exploration of other Asian ingredients among Western bartenders.
Originating in the early 1990s, the Lychee Martini is said to have first appeared either at Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s fusion restaurant Vong or at Decibel bar in the East Village. Whichever the source, the cocktail quickly became a hit and started featuring widely on menus across the country. It remains a top-selling item at another East Village bar and has been recently launched as a canned cocktail in ready-to-drink (RTD) format.
Though its trendiness may have diminished, the lychee martini has been crucial in bringing traditional Asian ingredients into the craft cocktail arena.
Liana Oster, bar director at NoMad London, points out that the accessibility of travel and the influence of Asian bars are significant factors in the increasing popularity of Asian-flavored cocktails. She remarks, “There is a bigger awareness of Asian bars—they are at the forefront now of some of the best bar programs in the world,” emphasizing how this visibility is spurring a surge in these unique cocktail flavors.
A yuzu Cocktail with shiso leaves.
Certain ingredients, such as yuzu, a Japanese citrus, have become particularly popular and are now commonly seen in craft cocktail menus.
“When you read words like yuzu, lychee or mangosteen, these are key words that entice cocktail enthusiasts,” mentions Mauro Villalobos, beverage director at Superfrico in Las Vegas. He notes, “These flavors have not only become commonplace in cocktail mixology but have also penetrated the market of commercial beverages, including energy drinks and sodas.”
With a rising interest in Asian-inspired cocktails, bars and restaurants are increasingly experimenting with unique flavors, integrating innovative ingredients like pandan and Sichuan peppercorn into their beverages. Bartenders are also utilizing modern techniques such as infusions to explore new possibilities with these ingredients.
“Ingredients such as yuzu, Thai basil, shochu, and shiso leaves are frequently being used in both traditional and completely novel cocktails,” Villalobos notes. “It’s clear that what was once considered unique and niche has become mainstream.”
Nevertheless, the adoption of these flavors involves complex challenges and opportunities, particularly in terms of authenticity and the procurement of ingredients.
“It’s crucial to navigate the balance between respecting traditional flavors and avoiding cultural appropriation,” Villalobos explains. “Bartenders need to be careful in their application and presentation of Asian ingredients, ensuring their cocktails are crafted with respect and a true understanding of the cultural heritage they represent.”
A shochu lemon highball with tonic water.
And depending on where you are in the world, Villalobos notes some can be limited to access, availability and freshness, which can cause sourcing challenges. Oster adds when choosing these ingredients, bartenders need to ask if the taste holds up to travel, and whether they’re the most sustainable products you could be using.
“When working with any new to you ingredient, but especially lesser known ones, a professional bartender needs to take a lot of factors into consideration,” says Jessica Kim, owner of Harumi Sushi in Phoenix. “There are factors on the creative side, like pairing the ingredient with other flavors to create a cocktail that isn’t too far outside the familiar for guests, but also behind the scenes elements like reliability in sourcing the ingredient, cost and consistency.”
Villalobos predicts that the trend toward low-alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages will further increase the role of Asian flavors.
“Ingredients like green tea, shiso and matcha can offer a refreshing alternative that still feels sophisticated and culturally inspired,” he notes, adding he is seeing a rise in the use of calamansi, a small citrus fruit, primarily used in Filipino cuisine, which is gaining popularity for its unique flavor—a mix of lime, orange and tangerine. “Its sharp yet sweet taste adds a zesty brightness to cocktails.”
Muñoz is similarly optimistic about the future. “We anticipate a continued rise in the use of Asian ingredients as consumers seek new and exciting flavors,” he says.
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Celebrate National Coffee Day: 11 Must-Try Coffee Cocktails
Coffee cocktails are much more than espresso martini!
Coffee and cocktails—what’s not to love? Take the espresso martini, for example. Once a quirky favorite of London’s cocktail scene, this simple yet powerful drink has surged back into the spotlight, and people can’t get enough. It’s rich, bold, and gives you that perfect caffeine kick when you need it most. Sure, it was born in the ‘80s, but this drink is having its true moment now, thanks to its irresistible mix of espresso, vodka, and a touch of sweetness.
But why stop there? Coffee’s deep flavors bring so much to the world of cocktails, and bartenders are having a blast playing around with it. Whether it’s creamy, boozy takes like the White Elephant or tropical twists like the Kōloa Rum Pineapple Coffee Fizz, coffee cocktails go far beyond your basic brew. These 13 drinks bring out the best of both worlds—your favorite coffee, with an extra splash of fun. So, ready to find your new go-to coffee cocktail? Let’s dive in.
Tequila and chilled espresso come together for a smooth, agave-forward twist on the classic espresso martini.
An updated version of the traditional espresso martini, this drink mixes tequila and Café Bustelo espresso for a delightful twist.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Make instant espresso and cool it. Next, combine it in a shaker with Tequila CAZADORES Café and ice. Shake well, strain into a martini glass, and decorate with coffee beans.
A tropical take on coffee, with cold brew, coconut cream, and Lo-Fi Sweet Vermouth for a creamy, indulgent sip.
This creamy coconut and cold brew cocktail offers a rich, tropical take on your coffee ritual. Lo-Fi Sweet Vermouth adds a unique depth with its blend of rhubarb, cocoa, and vanilla, while coconut cream brings a smooth, indulgent texture.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Mix together vermouth, coconut cream, and cold brew coffee in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain the mixture into a glass. Top with coconut flakes as a garnish.
Enhance your espresso martini by adding browned butter bourbon and espresso, topped with a garnish of three coffee beans.
Refine your espresso martini by incorporating the silky richness of browned butter bourbon.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Add every component into a shaker full of ice and give it a vigorous shake. Pour the mixture through a strainer into a pre-chilled coupe glass and finish by garnishing with three coffee beans.
Bright pineapple juice combines with the deep flavors of Kōloa Coffee Rum in this frothy, invigorating drink, ideal for adding a coffee-inspired twist.
Introduce a tropical flair to your coffee treat with this airy concoction. The pineapple juice injects a note of freshness, complemented by the smooth, foamy texture from Kōloa Coffee Rum and aquafaba.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Dry shake aquafaba (no ice) to create foam. Add coffee rum, honey syrup, pineapple juice, and lemon juice to the shaker, then shake again with ice. Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda.
Celebrate fall with this pumpkin spice espresso martini, blending Mr Black Cold Brew and seasonal spices.
Celebrate the season with a pumpkin spice-infused espresso martini, blending Mr Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur with warming autumn flavors.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with grated nutmeg.
A bold, coffee-infused spin on the Old Fashioned with bourbon, Tia Maria, and cold brew, garnished with orange zest.
A twist on the iconic Old Fashioned, this cocktail balances bourbon’s warmth with the smooth richness of cold brew and Tia Maria.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Fill a glass with ice, then add Tia Maria, bourbon, and cold brew. Stir gently and garnish with an orange twist. For extra flavor, express the oil from the orange peel over the drink.
An Italian-inspired Espresso Martini with smooth Galliano Espresso and vodka for a perfectly balanced pick-me-up.
An Italian spin on the popular Espresso Martini, this version highlights the bold flavors of Galliano Espresso with a smooth vodka finish.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Combine vodka, Galliano, and espresso in a shaker with ice. Strain the mixture into a martini glass and serve.
Taffer’s Browned Butter Bourbon enhances the complexity of this velvety, nutmeg-touched version of traditional Irish Coffee.
This rendition of classic Irish coffee is elevated by the sumptuous taste of browned butter bourbon.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Build ingredients in a mug, adding hot or iced coffee. Stir lightly and top with whipped cream, nutmeg, and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
A spiced Carajillo with a dash of cinnamon-orange syrup, giving this coffee liqueur cocktail a citrusy, warming kick.
A zesty and aromatic twist on the classic Carajillo, enhanced with the robust flavors of cinnamon-orange syrup.
Ingredients:
Cinnamon-Orange Syrup:
Instructions for syrup:
Bring orange juice, sugar, cinnamon sticks, vanilla, and water to a boil. Simmer for 6-8 minutes, then strain and cool.
Instructions for cocktail:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake hard. Strain into a rocks glass over ice and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
This traditional Irish coffee gets an upgrade with Clonakilty Double Oak Whiskey, muscovado sugar, and a rich cream topping
Perfect for cozy nights, this Irish coffee blends Clonakilty Double Oak Whiskey with rich muscovado sugar and a cloud of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Warm a glass with hot water, then discard the water. Add whiskey and sugar, stirring until dissolved. Pour in freshly brewed coffee and float whipped cream on top by gently pouring over a bar spoon. Optional: dust with cocoa powder.
A frosty, coffee-flavored treat with espresso ice cubes, Mr Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, and a hint of vanilla.
This frozen twist on the classic espresso martini is an icy treat perfect for a warm day. Blend up your espresso into ice cubes for a refreshing, caffeinated buzz.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Freeze espresso into ice cubes for 6-8 hours. Blend espresso ice cubes with Mr Black, vodka, and vanilla until smooth. Pour into two chilled coupes and garnish with coffee beans.
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Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:
User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:
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Savor the Season: Fall Cocktail Recipes from Great Lakes Distillery
MILWAUKEE – As the seasons change, so does the palette.
Brendan Cleary from Great Lakes Distillery joined FOX6 WakeUp with some fall cocktails.
Great Lakes Distillery is also hosting a Harvest Fest Block Party tonight at 6 p.m.
Unveiling the Mystery: Why Cocktails and Mocktails Cost the Same
Recently, while scrolling Twitter, I stumbled upon a tweet that sparked my curiosity about the cost of mocktails.
Also why are mocktails the same price as cocktails????
— A Thick Legend 🇺🇸 (@IAmShannonAli) August 20, 2024
A lot of folks seemed to agree — they weren’t sure why a cocktail without alcohol should cost the same as one that contains alcohol.
Now this is what should be talked about! https://t.co/olv2ZlpVL1
— Clarine (@BIGPIKLIZ) August 20, 2024
Some people felt the alcohol, which is typically the most expensive part of a cocktail, should dictate the price.
Let’s talk about this!!! Why the hell do I have to pay the same price when the alcohol, the pricy thing in the mix, is not IN IT!!!!!! 😡
— Just (@Just__JuJu) August 21, 2024
Many were really interested in understanding the pricing structure.
A discussion I’m very interested in having
— A✨ (@A_Djalo) August 21, 2024
And some felt like choosing a mocktail meant they weren’t getting enough bang for their buck.
I want to be sober sometimes but why would I pay $13 for juice when I can get a cocktail for the same price?
— ɴɪñᴀ ᴩʀᴏʙʟᴇᴍᴀᴛɪᴄᴀ™️ 15🏆 (@ni_problematica) August 21, 2024
The topic was hotly debated, which piqued my interest. To get more information about cocktail vs. mocktail pricing, I spoke with Abby Ehmann, owner of and Lucky in New York City.
Hekate is a sober bar that serves only alcohol-free cocktails.
First, Ehmann told BuzzFeed that “referring to NA [non-alcoholic] cocktails as a ‘mocktail’ or ‘virgin’ is somewhat frowned upon in the ‘NA space’ due to the association with drinks for children, such as the Shirley Temple. So we call them alcohol-free cocktails, which is more accurate.”
When asked why cocktails and alcohol-free cocktails are priced similarly, Ehmann said that it is “because the cost of NA spirits is closer to that of ‘call’ liquor. When you go to a regular bar and don’t request a specific brand name or ‘call’ liquor, you are getting ‘well’ booze, which is comparatively inexpensive.”
Ehmann mentioned that non-alcoholic spirits are priced similarly to middle-to-high-end alcoholic beverages. Currently, there aren’t any budget-friendly options for non-alcoholic spirits on the market.
In response to Ehmann’s observation, I decided to investigate the cost of cocktails at various bars throughout the USA, comparing prices of regular alcoholic drinks to their non-alcoholic counterparts.
The drink menu at , a New York City cocktail bar, shows that their alcoholic drinks are priced between $17 and $19, whereas their non-alcoholic cocktails are equivalently priced at $17.
These non-alcoholic offerings include a variety of non-alcoholic spirits.
This is a section of the menu of Arbella, a cocktail bar in Chicago. Cocktails here range in price from $17 to $30, while alcohol-free cocktails are all $15.
Some of their alcohol-free cocktails contain non-alcoholic liquor, but not all of them.
And this pricing is from the menu of The Rendition Room, a cocktail bar in Los Angeles. Their non-alcoholic cocktails are priced at $12, while their regular cocktails range from $16 to $18.
Their alcohol-free cocktails do not contain any non-alcoholic liquor.
Ehmann also added that she felt the pricing of alcohol-free cocktails isn’t “a problem for people who choose to avoid alcohol, but it certainly does seem to irk those who drink booze.”
“They are quick to ridicule us (and other sober bars) as ‘juice bars’…they seem particularly bent out of shape over what they believe to be too-high prices of alcohol-free cocktails.”
Finally, since Hekate is a sober bar, I was curious to learn if their best-sellers included alcohol-free versions of classic cocktails.
Ehmann said, “Our most popular cocktail, The Healer, is not an alcohol-free version of a familiar drink. It is a whole new concoction. But I believe it’s popular because it looks great on Instagram. Our other best-sellers are The Draper, which approximates a Manhattan; The Amalfi Spritz, which tastes exactly like an Aperol Spritz; and our assortment of margaritas. I do think it is easier for people to understand an alcoholic beverage equivalent, but for some, that may be a trigger, so a preference for something completely different is understandable.”
So now, next time you check out the alcohol-free cocktails on a bar menu, you’ll know exactly why those prices are so similar!
Counting Down the Days: 100 Festive Cocktails to Get Excited About as Christmas Approaches
With less than 100 days until Christmas, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your holiday festivities. Top of the agenda for many is the delightful array of Christmas cookies and holiday mains. Yet, what really sets the holiday mood for me is indulging in a festive and spirited drink. To get us all in the holiday spirit, I’ve gathered a selection of our favorite holiday cocktails. Forget about just the 25 Days of Christmas—these 12 cocktails are fantastic for ushering in the holiday cheer early and keeping it going right until the big day.
Although these are holiday-themed, many of these cocktails are simple to make and utilize ingredients that are readily available all year round. There’s no reason to wait—start enjoying these festive beverages immediately and keep the spirit alive past December.
A creative twist on the classic drink, the Aperol spritz, involves adding a splash of cranberry for a festive, vibrant red hue. Opt for 100% cranberry juice if you prefer it less sweet.
Find your way to the festive Cranberry-Aperol Spritz recipe here.
Scrooge might have been grumpy, but a taste of this delightful yet refreshing winter cocktail could have easily brightened his mood. This concoction draws its essence from the holiday favorite, mulled wine, using a simple syrup to elevate this festive drink.
Discover the Scrooge Sour recipe.
Combining the tartness of cranberry juice with the floral hints of elderflower liqueur and sage, this cocktail is ideal for sipping in hopes of a Christmas kiss beneath the mistletoe. Even without the kiss, you’ll find wonderful company in this drink.
Explore the Mistletoe Martini recipe.
Looking to elevate your holiday gatherings while keeping your favorite party beverage in the mix? Try the Mrs. “Claws” cocktail. You’ll be the star of any event when you show up ready to make this tasty and festive cocktail with the beloved hard seltzer.
Get the Mrs. “Claws” Cocktail recipe.
When transitioning summer sangria to cooler seasons, apple cider is a popular choice that may lean towards the sweeter side. Add some cranberry juice to keep it vibrant and tangy, making it a perfect drink for the colder months.
Get the Cranberry Apple Sangria recipe.
Apparently only 25% of Americans are able to get a white Christmas, which, in our opinion, is totally unfair. If you’re in that remaining 75%, we’ve got you covered with this mojito. With this cocktail in hand, you won’t even need to pay attention to the forecast.
Get the White Christmas Mojito recipe.
Everyone’s favorite boozy coffee drink just got a holiday makeover. With a simple combo of Kahlúa, vodka, and heavy cream, the White Russian is already the king of creamy after-dinner cocktails, but adding a splash of peppermint schnapps makes it perfect for a seasonal celebration.
Get the Peppermint White Russian recipe.
One of the joys of hosting during the festive season is displaying an array of cute treats with charming names, right? Thus, we crafted this delightful sugarplum spritz. This beverage is a light, refreshing, and seasonal twist on a favorite summer drink, perfect for any holiday celebration.
Get the Sugarplum Spritz recipe.
This vibrant red concoction is a tribute to the dirty Shirley, enhanced with playful garnishes like sweetened coconut (resembling Christmas snow) and a peppermint stick that transforms holiday gloom into festive cheer swiftly.
Get the Santa’s Hat Cocktail recipe.
This winter-themed take on a whiskey sour introduces a bold ginger taste along with tangy cranberry juice. Although simple in ingredients, it delivers strong, vibrant flavors that are a perfect match for sumptuous holiday appetizers such as baked brie and bacon-wrapped dates.
Get the Ginger-Cranberry Whiskey Sour recipe.
Peppermint bark enthusiasts, this one’s for you. For those feeling extra festive, pair it with our other favorite seasonal delight, pretzel peppermint bark. No judgment here.
Get the Peppermint Martinis recipe.
Not only does this adorable cocktail look the part, but if you close your eyes, it also tastes just like gingerbread cookies, thanks to a homemade spiced simple syrup. Top these with store-bought (or homemade!) cookies to take the cute factor over the top.
Get the Gingerbread Martini recipe.
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Dining Delight: A Review of Hermana’s Kitchen & Cocktails in Lindenhurst
A rainbow carrot taco with al pastor sauce, curtido and cotija cheese at Hermanas in Lindenurst.
Hermanas’ mission statement emphasizes its innovative and thoughtful culinary and cocktail offerings, inspired by Hispanic traditions. While not a destination for traditional regional Mexican dishes or Salvadoran pupusas, the restaurant excels in creating bright flavors and stunning presentations, crafted expertly by chef Edwin Corrado, whose creations are both logical and tantalizingly delicious.
The decision to hire Corrado was among several astute choices by trio Sara Pesserillo, Lauren Nash, and Kristen Lapof, who founded Hermanas in 2020. Though not sisters by blood, their years in the hospitality industry across various venues in Long Island helped them develop a deep, sisterly bond, which inspired the name Hermanas, meaning “sisters” in Spanish.
Hermanas Kitchen & Cocktails was established in Lindenhurst in 2020.
The dining area displays a playful design with various white chairs, empty yet ornate golden picture frames, and a vibrant tiled bar. The service is equally delightful: the staff are well-informed, amiable, and efficient, clearly enjoying their work environment. It’s a joy for them to serve some of the finest tacos found on Long Island, offering selections that range from classic (slow-cooked pork) to nostalgic (old-fashioned hard shell tacos with ground beef) and novel (the cauliflower taco is a must-try).
Other menu highlights include pupusas, ceviche, empanadas, Cuban sandwiches, and carne asada, which honor Latin American culinary traditions. However, the kitchen also adeptly handles fusion dishes like mussels in a Cajun cream sauce and chicharron (featured occasionally), flawless salads, and customizable bowls built on a base of rice, pink beans, and arugula, which can be tailored with various proteins, vegetables, cheeses, and toppings. The cocktails served at the bar are crafted with equal finesse and skill.
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Erica Marcus, a devoted yet critical omnivore, has been covering and commenting on the food scene in Long Island since 1998.
Unlocking Flavor: How Garlic-Infused Vodka is Revolutionizing Savory Cocktails
Vodka, known for its almost neutral flavor, is the ideal base for garlic infusion. The tradition of infusing vodka with various ingredients such as herbs, vegetables, and botanicals goes back centuries in Russia and Poland. In particular, Russian bison grass vodka is celebrated among mixologists for its unique vegetal taste and potential health benefits. While commercially available Flavored vodkas are common, creating your garlic-infused version can be a delightful project. Garlic enthusiasts will appreciate using one whole head of garlic per liter of vodka and can choose from two effective infusion methods.
For optimal results, start with a high-quality premium vodka. One approach involves peeling the garlic cloves, lightly crushing them, and then inserting them into a vodka bottle. After sealing and shaking the bottle, store it in a dark, cool space. Shake it daily for at least two days. Test the flavor after two days and extend the infusion for more robust garlic flavor if needed. Finally, strain the vodka using a cheesecloth and remove all garlic solids before pouring the vodka back into its bottle.
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An alternative method involves placing vodka and sliced garlic in a Mason jar, allowing them to sit for 24 hours. Strain the mixture with a coffee filter to remove the solids then taste and adjust the infusion time as necessary for a stronger flavor. Toasting the garlic beforehand can mitigate its intensity, giving a milder and sweeter result. Once proficient with garlic, experimenting with other ingredients like basil, ginger, rosemary, or even habanero could provide exciting new flavors.
Now that you’ve made your “vampire defense” vodka, what are the best cocktails for it? Savory is probably the way to go. The garlic-infused vodka would definitely give a kick to a classic Bloody Mary and its Canadian “cousin,” a Bloody Caesar. Substituting the plain vodka for garlic vodka would also make the James Bond-inspired Vesper Martini a killer. Garlic is often used in dill pickles, so it seems a natural extension to make a Pickle Martini with garlic vodka. The Dirty Martini can be made with either gin or vodka, and pairing the cocktail’s olive juice with garlic vodka would be delicious.
Read the original article on Tasting Table.