'Tis the season for holiday food and drinks to warm us up during this cold weather. My favorite time of the year is Fall because it prompts families and friends to spend quality time together as holiday parties are in full effect. My friends and I love throwing themed parties, and when planning a small gathering, one of my favorite themes is a cocktail mixer. Cocktails will start flowing, conversations will begin to form and the night will take off from there.
My newfound obsession this season has been Journeyman Distillery’s Old Country Goodness apple cider liqueur. It’s the perfect combination of a smooth apple cinnamon taste and when paired with a feast, it's the highlight of the party. I had some friends over the other night so I decided this would be the perfect opportunity to test out this liqueur on everyone. I thought pairing it with bourbon sherry would be an interesting duo for a cocktail. This specific bourbon sherry is versatile so I thought it would be a great mixer to enhance the delicious flavor; I'm calling my creation the Apple of my Eye.
You will need:
1. Measure 3 ounces OCG apple cider liqueur.
2. Measure 1 ounce Orleans Manzanilla Fina Bourbon.
3. Combine the liquids in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well.
4. Transfer to a rocks glass.
5. Garnish with apple slices and/or cinnamon sticks.
My friends were chasing me down during my gathering, trying to figure out what was in these cocktails. It sparked my curiosity not only to find more great parings for the delicious liqueur, but also in general for other holiday cocktail ideas.
This apple cider would also be great paired with a sparking wine of your choice, and The Chopping Block has a wide variety of wines, spirits and bar essentials you need to get your own holiday party kicked off. We also offer wine/cocktail educational classes. If you're interested in building your knowledge of cocktails and impressing your friends and family with your mixing skills, you should sign up for our next Iconic Cocktails class on Friday, December 27 6pm at the Merchandise Mart.
Drinks aren’t the only essentials for a party. Choosing the best appetizers to highlight your cocktails is crucial, and finger foods are always a smart option when featuring a creative drink menu. Adding on to your presentation for your holiday parties will create memorable experiences for your guest. They will be eager to return to your house for the holidays year after year to see what you have in store for them. You can learn how to make impressive appetizers for all of your parties at our Irresistible Appetizers class on Monday, December 9 6pm or Saturday, December 28 at 11am, both at the Merchandise Mart.