Sexy Valentines Cocktails
Who doesn't love a little champagne, prosecco or cava?
Don't feel like blowing the bank but still want a little bubbly to tickle your nose? Read on, because these champagne cocktails are wonderful and irresistible!
A few choice champagne cocktails to put you in the mood this Valentine's Day (or any day really if you ask me!). These are the perfect apperitifs to sip while savouring your carefully crafted appetizers. And best of all, if you know someone who (gasp!) doesn't enjoy a good bubbly, this cocktails may just begin to sway them. Subtle, a bit sweet and sophisticated- just like you, right!
The following Mimosa Cocktail recipe, is courtesy of Rose Reisman:
8 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
2 oz champagne
splash of Triple Sec – optional
Strawberries as garnish
Pour orange juice into 2 champagne glasses. Add champagne and a splash of Triple Sec if using. Garnish with strawberries.
Pomegranate Cava Cocktail:
I make this one at any special occasion- birthdays, Valentine's and it was a big hit this past New Year's Eve.
I bought a good quality, gourmet pomegranate syrup that was naturally sweetened (don't scrimp on this because it's your biggest flavour component here folks)- so it wasn't cloying and didn't taste like cheap candies. Pour some syrup- a dash will do- into your champagne flutes. Add a few pomegranate seeds (they look lovely as they dance up and down the long glasses) and top with some Cava (Spain's answer to French champagne- and shop around, there are some really good ones). Buen Provecho!
Raspberry Prosecco Cocktail:You can make this one with blueberries, strawberries, blackberries or peaches- but there's something about some fresh raspberries and prosecco that go together like hand in glove.
Take a pint of sweet, fresh raspberries and muddle them with good quality honey (lavender for example) to taste, a dash of brandy and a pinch of sugar. Pour into your glasses and top with some Italian Prosecco. Float a berry or two on top with a sprig of mint and you're ready for romance.
I'd be remiss to not mention the fantastic Canadian Ice Wine Bruts that I've seen in the Niagara region lately. This is a big trend in beverages here in Canada and I imagine they'll be making their way out of our boarders soon. Ever so slightly sweet, crisp and wonderful- these bruts make a refreshing, affordable and elegant addition to any dinner party. Add a little Cassis and voila, you've got a Canadian Kir Royal. Enjoy!
