Check out some of the drink options that we've offered in the past. If you'd like to, you can special order one of them!
Fireball Whisky mixed with real apple cider & cherry juice, with a splash for ginger ale for fizz!
Homegrown rosemary infused local honey to add herbal sweetness to this Bourbon cocktail that's refreshing over ice.
Absolut Vanilla Vodka, Amaretto, Organic Chai Tea, a splash of half & half, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Hornitos Reposado Tequila, real apple cider, fresh lime juice, housemade honey syrup and a dash of ground cinnamon. Included with this delicious margarita is a housemade cinnamon/sugar/salt rim and a Star Anise garnish.
A creepily delicious mix of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Pomegranate gives it the "dark mark"!
Catch a few of these sweet, bubbly drinks made with apple cider, whiskey, St. Germain, lemon, maple, and spices.
Be careful - this drink may bite you when you aren't looking ;) Tito's Handmade Vodka, Grand Marnier, housemade blackberry juice, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
A friendly mix of Flor de Cana 4 year White Rum, pure organic coconut water, fresh lime juice, and Coco Lopez.
Comrade! Ties to Russia won't bother you while you enjoy this refreshing mix of vodka, lime, and ginger beer. Nostrovia!
This delicious shot of chocolate, cream, and cinnamon may be to blame for a lot of things, but a virus isn't one of them. If you drink too many, you may forget about your secret bank account!
乾杯 (Gānbēi)!
A presidential Mojito that may help you forgot the last 4 years, it's a delicious blend of Cutwater Three Sheets Rum, housemade blueberry juice, organic pineapple juice, and homegrown mint.
Ok fine, these are Jell-O Shots, filled with coconut rum, blue curaçao and organic pineapple juice) These will either enhance your Tuesday night celebration, or help put you into a sorrow filled sleep.
Añejo Tequila, housemade cardamom-infused honey syrup and fresh lemon juice taste sweetly refreshing. Locally sourced honey, lemons from our tree, and the warm spice of cardamom make for a fresh margarita that tastes as crispy as our fall weather. This drink combines two of my favorite flavors--honey and cardamom. It will remind you of the great drinks of summer, while pairing well with a cozy sweater.
Absolut Mandarin Vodka, housemade thyme-infused simple syrup, fresh squeezed clementime juice makes this sweet fresh cocktail bursting with with citrus and herb goodness (garnished with fresh clementines and thyme sprigs). Absolut Mandarin has been my "go to" vodka for years! I love the hint of citrus it adds, so when I paired it with the fresh squeezed clementine juice and the hint of thyme syrup, it was a GAME CHANGER! It's so refreshing yet balanced with herbs so it's just sweet enough.
Casa Volador Mezcal, housemade rosemany-infused honey syrup, organic unfiltered apple cider and fresh lime juice (with a homegrown rosemary garnish). I know, I know. Mezcal?! I've been afraid of it forever, unsure of the uniquely smokey flavor. But I decided to branch out and try something new, and I was so pleasantly surprised! The blend of Apple Cider, rosemary infused honey syrup are just the right flavors to help balance out the slightly smokey Mezcal. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed!
As the holiday season ramps up, don't forget to slow down a little! This one is perfect for sipping slowly-a refreshing twist on the classic sidecar with a tart side, it's a blend of brandy, orange juice, and orange liquer on the rocks with a sugar-rim that makes each taste a little sweeter. I recommend winding down one evening with a game or a puzzle!
It's tradition in our family that my mom always bakes an apple pie to serve alongside the pumpkin and pecan. Personally, it's the one I always choose. So we mixed up a cocktail with all the same feels-not too sweet, but crisp, with the warmth of cinnamon. I think I'll just drink my dessert this year, thank you very much! We mixed a London Dry Gin with housemade cinnamon-infused simple syrup and seasonally spiced apple cider to make the perfect drink to sip as you recall all the things you're thankful for. I know some of you are still hesitant about gin drinks, but trust me, this one will make you a believer! Great as an individual drink, or in a large batch for a crowd.
Coffee is life for me, a spiked coffee on the weekend sends me to a happy relaxed vibe alllllll day. Blue Bottle Cold Brew coffee, Cutwater Bali Hai Tiki Monkey, Kahlua and Rumchata take this Rum filled coffee to the next level.
Thanksgiving Mimosa? Ummm yes please! This Mimosa tastes just like Cinnamon Apple Cider but packs a boozy punch! Cinnamon Whiskey, Organic Apple Cider and LaMarca Prosecco (garnished with a sprig of homegrown Rosemary and a Cinnamon Stick) make this Mimosa my absolute fave!
Forget the cranberry sauce, pass this sparkly cranberry treat instead! We modified the classic vodka-cranberry and added sparkling apple juice and ginger beer to Stolichnaya Vodka to make it extra fizzy and special. One taster said, "It's delightful to drink," and it's not too strong, so you can keep sipping happily right through any of your relatives' longest stories! Would go equally well with dinner OR dessert.
Have a cup of cheer! This vanilla and spice-forward version of the classic White Russian (kahlua, vodka, and cream) tastes just like an adult version of those cute little cookies. Sip this little treat while trimming the tree to get you in the holiday spirit! *Cannot sub non-dairy, sorry.
This creamy coconut margarita made with Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Grand Marnier, coconut water, fresh squeezed lime juice and Coco Lopez (garnished with cranberries, lime and a sprig of rosemary) tastes like summer but looks like Christmas in a cup. This margaritas is sure to have you "rockin' around the Christmas tree" for sure!
We used our favorite old vine zinfandel, warmed it up with a generous glug of silky smooth brandy, and added fresh oranges from our neighbor's tree, and lots of warm spices to make this holiday favorite. Sip this this warmed cocktail to instantly transport you to a bundled-up stroll through the Christmas Markets of Europe (or is that just me?). When heating, go slowly, and feel free to add another splash of brandy to kick it up!
Housemade Cranberry Vodka Infusion - After over a month of infusing, these bottles of Infused Cranberry Vodka will make an absolutely delicious shot (which sometimes are necessary during the holidays), or add just a bit of sparkling water for a Cranberry Vodka Spritzer. These would make great gifts for friends too!
Housemade Roasted Pineapple Infused Rum - Oven roasted pineapple infused with Flor de Cana 12 year aged Rum. The flavor of this after over a month of infusing is AMAZING! My fave way to enjoy this is a twist on a traditional Old Fashioned (recipe will be attached). This beautiful and delicious infusion also would be a great gift.
You need a cocktail to go with those gingerbread cookies you baked right?! Housemade ginger and vanilla infused Tito's Vodka, Frangelico, Butterscotch Liqueur topped with Ginger Beer (cinnamon stick garnish) make this holiday cocktail easy sipping all month long!
This Puerto Rican tradition is infinitely better than any American style eggnog I've ever had! I know, I know! Many of you LOVE your eggnog, but if you love coconut like I do, this may change your mind! Dark Spiced Rum, Coconut Milk, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Coco Lopez, Cinnamon, Nutmeg and a splash of Vanilla with housemade Rum Raisins (I can omit these if they aren't your jam); garnished with sweetest flakes coconut and cinnamon stick.
Looking for an easy sipping cocktail filled with delicious pears and vanilla bean? If you thought yes, than this Partridge in a Pear Tree is for you! A housemade pear and vanilla bean syrup, pear puree mixed with Hendricks Gin and topped with a dash of club soda make this cocktail perfectly sweet, gorgeous and refreshing; garnished with a vanilla bean and sugar rim.
I refuse to say margaritas are only meant for Summer! This spicy and sweet holiday spirit is one of my faves. Hornito's Reposado Tequila, Grand Marnier, fresh lime juice, housemade jalapeno syrup and a blend of cranberry, blackcurrant and fresh orange juice; garnished with cranberries, rosemary and a sea salt rim.
Sweet white wine, apple cider, fireball whisky, garnished with fresh apples, oranges, and cinnamon sticks.
How about a coffee that's 100% alcohol? We've mixed up a creamy cup of "coffee" with a hint of chocolate just for you. Kahlua, Cocoa & Creme Liqueur and Vodka, that's it! For brunch or really anytime.
What's New Year's Eve without a glass of bubbly? We swapped out the champagne this year for something a stronger (because 2020). This red sparkler will have you ready to toast a New Year with a smile. Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey Whiskey gives the sweetness, while ginger beer lends some spice, add in the tartness of 100% cranberry juice...for your health, of course...and you'll have a new favorite drink.
Anyone who knows me, knows I have an obsession with the beach and tiki drinks. It may be Winter, but we live in California and are blessed with sun! So let's celebrate the end of 2020 and look forward to a brighter 2021 with this delicious Winter Sunshine cocktail. Mixed with Tito's Handmade Vodka, Coconut Rum, Creme de Banana, Coco Lopez, Pineapple and fresh squeezed orange juice, garnished with shredded coconut and orange slice.
Warm up and relax with deliciously crafted Blueberry Chai cream cocktail. Whether you're celebrating New Year's Eve or just a fun family game night, this cocktail will have you feeling a very special kind of way. Mixed up with The Kraken Black Spiced Rum, housemade blueberry cream syrup and Chai tea, garnished with fresh blueberries.
This Prohibition-era drink lives up to it's name-it's really great! It's simple and just sweet enough: London Dry gin, fresh lemon juice from our tree, and sweetened by house-made local honey syrup (no extra nonsense!). Fun fact: eating local honey can help with seasonal allergies!
Another crisp, clean option this week features fresh citrus from a neighbor and the oft-forgotten elderflower liqueur for a splash of sunshine on these winter days. This refreshing combination of grapefruit, vanilla, elderflower liqueur, plus vodka will help you ease into the weekend after a first week back in the grind. Sparkling water makes it fizzy and fun!
Truth be told, I actually don't like avocado (I know, I can feel your judgement). But I do have a love for healthy food and drinks and I figured with a healthy amount of tequila and fresh lime juice I could be convinced to give this cocktail a try. Now you can drink your healthy fats and make a toast. To the healthiest margarita ever! I'll drink to that! A blend of organic avocados, cilantro, jalapeno then mixed Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau (if you're doing Keto I can omit, just let me know), fresh lime juice and a sea salt rim.
New Years always comes with a renewed effort at a healthier lifestyle. And I'm with you! I was determined to make a healthy, fresh and delicious cocktail that you can enjoy without the guilt. After testing this recipe out, it was truly love at first sip. A delicious combination of Tito's Handmade Vodka muddled with fresh ginger, organic carrot juice, fresh lemon juice and house-made honey thyme syrup (no refined sugar here!).
A fresh start to the new year! Many of the "classic" drinks are naturally lower in calories and sugar than modern concoctions and this old-fashioned is a great example. My husband loves a good, simple old-fashioned, but I always find myself wanting to add a little something extra to mine-so here you have it! Housemade cinnamon simple syrup and tangy-sweet (antioxidant rich!) blueberries make this Maker's Mark bourbon drink perfect for helping you celebrate the weekend while still keeping those New Year's resolutions to your health! Topping it off with a bit of sparkling water to taste makes it even more festive.
This refreshing drink will add some sunshine to these cold days. Personally, I don't like the super-sweet version of mojitos that some places serve, so we toned down the sugar in favor of fresh, organic mint straight from our kitchen garden and a fizzy zip of club soda. You get the sunshine without the guilt; cheers!
Winter citrus season has arrived! And you know I couldn't have a "healthyish" January without taking advantage of vibrant blood oranges. Filled with freshly squeezed grapefruit, blood orange and lime juices topped with Hornitos Reposado Tequila, soda water for a little fizz and garnished with slices of blood orange and lime. Cheers to Winter cocktail goals!
Do you ever wake up at night and start thinking of the most random things? Me too! Well a few nights ago, my middle of the night brainstorming turned into creative cocktails. I recently made some really delicious Orange Marmalade (with oranges from my backyard) so obviously I had to find a way to use it in a cocktail. This super refreshing and citrus-forward cocktail is a balanced mix of Hangar 1 Straight Vodka, muddled housemade orange marmalade, fresh squeezed mandarin orange and lime juice, topped with a splash of club soda and garnished with slices of oranges.
When our CSA gave me lots of crunchy sweet pears...I immediately started thinking of how to use them in this week's cocktails! You won't be sorry! This cool vodka drink really lets the pears shine through. Housemade cinnamon syrup made with dark brown sugar adds the spice of cinnamon sticks with the warm depth of molasses.
Citrus is poppin' right now and we couldn't resist! This cocktail is the perfect celebration of winter's best cocktail flavors: sharp, sour notes of blood oranges paired up with smokey, sweet bourbon. The freshness of lemon and lime give it the sour.
Sweet and spicy! Just as any Valentine's Day should be, right?! I've been working on this for over a week (its a rough job, I know)! I've tried all different variations of infusions, syrups, muddled fruits and spices. Let me tell you, I've got this one perfected! Housemade jalapeno infused Hornitos Blanco tequila, muddled fresh organic strawberries, Cointreau, fresh squeezed lime juice and garnished with a raw sugar and sea salt rim has all the makings of a very Happy Valentine's Day!
Forgot to pick up the Valentine's Day flowers, don't worry! I've got you covered! Simply sweet and fresh, like a bouquet of beautiful hand picked flowers. This simple and oh so delightful cocktail has me sipping away. The Botanist Gin, Cointreau, housemade Orange Marmalade and fresh squeezed organic Meyer lemon juice shaken and poured into a coup glass is literally the perfect cocktail.
It's almost time to start planting our garden, and the planning is filling me with hope of warmer days and longer evenings spent sipping a cocktail and watching things grow. This smooth sipper is all those dreams in one! We took a crisp Russian vodka, paired it with the tartness of blueberry juice, the decadence of framboise liqueur, and added Peach Schnapps for extra summer punch. It reminds me of port, but with a sunnier twist-the perfect drink to enjoy while thinking warm summer thoughts.
We have some friends whose plum tree goes overboard every year. After they finished making all the jam they could, and even doorbell ditching bags of plums on their neighbors' doorsteps, they had to surrender-and they made this plum puree for the freezer to deal with another day. That's where our drink comes in! After an evening of serious recipe-testing, we found a cocktail that highlights those plums at a time when we're all craving summer tastes again. Jack Daniels Honey Whisky shines on its own, but when mixed with that organic plum puree, and the spicy fizz of ginger beer, it becomes truly magical.
If you're looking for a beautifully pink, mouth watering grapefruit cocktail with a hint of rosemary, look no further. The taste and tartness of grapefruit really stands alone in most cocktails, but the sweet and aromatic notes of St. Germain Elderflower really liven this one up. Nicely mixed with Tito's Handmade Vodka, St. Germain Elderflower, fresh squeezed grapefruit and lemon juices, and a splash of housemade rosemary syrup.
As I looked at the upcoming forecast, I could just feel the anticipation of Spring and Summer on their way! While I am guilty of coming up with every possible margarita for every season, the tastes of spring and summer really make me giddy. This mostly sweet drink with a hint of spice combines a delicious puree of fresh mango and lime juice mixed with Herradura Reposado Tequila and Cointreau, garnished with a blend of chili lime powder and raw sugar.
St. Patrick's Day is a favorite around our house...there's always some "mischief" happening! This fun cocktail is the perfect shade of shamrocks thanks to the mix of Curaçao with fresh squeezed orange juice and a splash of 7up, and it's the vodka that you won't taste that packs the punch. This drink is a crazy color, but the flavors are all bright and citrus-y! (did you know that Curaçao is a liqueur flavored with the dried peel of the bitter Lahara Orange? Fun fact to share as you share this drink with a friend!). Served over ice, your Irish eyes will soon be smiling!
Feeling lucky? We hit the jackpot on this one after many tastings to make it perfect. Simple is sometimes best, and this is a classic that proves it. Our housemade honey syrup gives this drink a smooth mouthfeel, while the fresh lemon juice provides balance to the bourbon. You may have found a new favorite!
Yes, tiki drinks are my JAM! I'm pretty much obsessed with all things tropical. A traditional Mai Tai is my absolute favorite cocktail ever, but I figured I'd modernize it and give it a floral twist. This Modern Mai Tai is a unique mix of Hibiscus Tea steeped with fresh thyme and honey, Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum, fresh squeezed lemon juice, organic pineapple juice and garnished with fresh pineapple and thyme.
Whiskey isn't typically my go-to drink, but I've changed my own mind! I even tested this recipe on a "non whiskey drinker" friend and she LOVED it! This smash is a delicious mix of Makers Mark Whiskey, housemade blackberry juice, fresh squeezed lemon juice shaken with organic rosemary.
We've been playing around with our housemade honey syrup lately, and so far the possibilities are endless. It brings a more complex flavor and a smoother mouthfeel than regular simple syrup, which makes other drink ingredients really stand out. This cocktail features the herbal base of Gin, tangy grapefruit soda, delicate honey syrup, and a pop of fresh lemon juice. The result? A refreshing drink to sip in the warm sunlight.
My girls call grapefruit "greatfruit," because they love it so much. We can't get enough of these fresh citrus snacks! To make this cocktail, I combined grapefruit juice with Elderflower liqueur, a splash of Aloe Vera drink, a squeeze of both lemon and lime juices, and Gin. Yes, it's another Gin drink-it's favorite around here. Trust me on this, it brings out the Elderflower better than any other alcohol we tried; you're welcome for all the testing and tasting to get it just so :). We also had fun reminiscing the times we put cool aloe gel on skin that had seen too much sun. It's a combo that is light and absolutely refreshing-just like springtime.
Ever since I made that Blackberry Lemonade Smash a couple weeks ago, I've been trying all things whiskey. And wow, so many options! Since its officially spring, I thought I would lighten it up and add some of my favorite flavors. Its a silky smooth blend of fresh cut mango and organic pineapple juice, Makers Mark Whiskey, fresh lime juice muddled with mint
Last year during quarantine, I took my boys to pick all available fruits just to get them out of the house. We found the most adorable apricot orchard in Hollister and ended up with endless amounts of apricots. The result? So much jam! I've added my homemade Apricot jam, Casamigos Reposado Tequila, housemade jalapeno syrup, fresh squeezed orange and lime juice and a sea salt rim.
Oh la la! Nothing is more romantic than April in Paris...or really Paris anytime...right now I'm dreaming of Paris...so the next few drink selections I offer will definitely have a French feel to them (If I can't go right now, I can imagine myself there, right?). A classic French 75 is simple and chic-it's been called "a strong drink in a sparkly dress"! Perfect for brunch or anytime you're ready to celebrate. We mixed a standard pour of gin with sparkling wine, fresh lemon juice from our tree, and put our own twist on things with a zesty housemade lemon simple syrup...it's bubbly with a punch and the perfect excuse to raise a glass!
Another classic French cocktail, this "man-about-town" drink is rich and smooth and goes well with, well anything. It goes great with friends and a sunny afternoon, with apps before dinner, with dinner itself...you get the idea! This is an intriguing drink with a beautiful color thanks to a heavy pour of bourbon (Kirk is partial to Bulleit around here), plus bitter Campari, and sweetened up just enough with a large splash of sweet vermouth.
A tropical twist on a classic margarita. Calamansi is a tiny citrus fruit native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Often called the Philippine Lime, it tends to be more tart than a traditional lime. Knowing this juice can be so tart, I incorporated a housemade sweet and sour, made with fresh squeezed lemon, lime, orange juices and local honey. A deliciously tropical mix of Espolon Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, housemade sweet and sour, fresh squeezed calamansi juice and a sea salt/turbinado sugar rim.
Let me just start by saying, this pineapple mojito is DELICIOUS! But beware, it also creeps up on you (currently sipping on one while I type this, so please excuse any typos lol). It's sweet, refreshing, minty and just quite perfect. I started off by blending fresh cut pineapple with organic pineapple juice to make a smooth pineapple base, a combination of Flor de Cana 4 year white rum and Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum, housemade mint syrup, all muddled with fresh cut pineapple, lime and mint.
Chances are, if you come to our house during the summer, we'll hand you one of these just to get you settled in. For us, nothing says summer like a tall glass of freshly squeezed lime and grapefruit juices, plus a little Squirt fizz and tequila! It's no wonder that south of the border, this is Mexico's most famous drink. The balance here is really perfect: sweet and acid and sparkling all at once! They will sneak up on you in the best way, which leads to relaxed afternoons on the patio, and hopefully you'll stay a little longer to enjoy our next drink...
If our previous drink reminds us of warm days and sunshine, this is one is the one you'll reach for after dinner to keep the conversation going long into the chilly nights! Bulleit bourbon is tamed (just a bit) by the sweet coffee flavor of Kahlua, resulting in an easy-drinking cocktail that makes for tasty sipping either with friends or relaxing by yourself.
My recent trip to Hawaii was a very successful way to find new and delicious cocktails, while working on my tan at the same time ;) This margarita is sweet and tart with the perfect blend of citrus and lilikoi (also known as passion fruit), and it embodies everything we love about summer. Casamigos tequila blanco, Cointreau, housemade sour, lilikoi puree with a Li Hing Mui rim.
I love all things pineapple, especially in a cocktail. I really wanted to make a sweet, refreshing, tropical and light pineapple cocktail, and this one hits the spot! Bacardi pineapple, St. Germain-Elderflower, Creme de Banana, housemade sour and pineapple.
Calvados is an apple brandy that hails from the Normandy region of France (and as the only non-wine producing region in France, you know that they take their Calvados seriously). This drink was invented at The Ritz Hotel in Paris: it's elegant and sophisticated—just like the place itself. We mix VSOP Calvados with local Martinelli's organic honeycrisp apple cider and top it with prosecco for a refreshing apple treat. Strong, sassy, everything apple.
This is a newer cocktail that feels like an old classic. It was created in 1984 in London by Dick Bradsell (who also gave us the Espresso Martini), who was trying to pay homage to the fresh berries that he picked as a child on the Isle of Wight. It combines crème de mûre (blackberry liqueur) with lemon juice, simple syrup, and gin for a drink that feels like spring heading into summer. This drink is seriously delicious!
As we get closer and closer to summer, all of those amazing melons are getting sweeter and sweeter. Cantaloupe is definitely one of my faves, and this cocktail rates right up there. I started making this last summer and it quickly became a fan favorite. Nolet's Gin, fresh cantaloupe juice, lemon, lime and housemade wildflower honey syrup.
Watermelon is the BEST! I could easily eat a whole one by myself. Its sweet, refreshing and delicious! I had a really good watermelon margarita recently, so I had to try and recreate it. And let me just say, I did a really good job ;) Hornito's Blanco Tequila, fresh watermelon juice, lime, scratch sweet and sour, housemade watermelon syrup and garnished with a Tajin rim.
It's feijoa (pineapple guava) season in our backyard. These gorgeous, structural flowers are edible! Go for the fluffy petal, they taste like sweet little marshmallows! We took inspiration from these fun little treats to make an orange-y guava-ey cocktail you're going to love. Blue Curacao lends its citrus flavor and fun color to a crisp vodka base, then we added a heavy splash each of Cointreau and fresh guava nectar.
My garden is my inspiration, and my favorite place to enjoy a beverage. I dreamed this lovely one up yesterday as I smelled the lavender and jasmine in full bloom. Thoughts of floral flavors that rustle in the warm breeze made me think of a lazy walk in the woods or a meadow...ok there was some taste-testing that could've helped make these visions more vibrant! The main notes are elderflower liqueur and blackberry liqueur (Crème de Mûre), and light rum provides the perfect brightness, bringing out the notes of both the liqueurs. It's a deliciously strong sipper that makes for a perfect afternoon.
When dreaming of the perfect summer cocktail, coconut is usually involved. With just one sip of this cocktail you'll definitely be feeling like you're floating on a cloud of coconut. Don Q Cristal Rum, Stoli Vanil, Cruzan Coconut, Coconut Water and Coco Lopez.
My boys LOVE lemonade. Over the last year, I've gotten creative by adding other fruits, herbs (even veggies shhh..). Truth be told, I usually add vodka to mine because why not?! The cajun rim adds just enough spice to this freshly sweet cocktail. Tito's Handmade Vodka, scratch peach puree, fresh meyer lemon juice, honey syrup with a cajun rim.
This one's perfect for sipping on a hot day. It may just inspire you to have another type of siesta! A blend of tequila, Campari, grapefruit and lime juices, syrup to lighten it a bit, and a couple of dashes of angostura bitters, this one will go down smooth, but packs a punch!
Mules are simply delicious. There's something super refreshing about ginger beer, lime juice, and alcohol. An Irish Mule, of course, uses Irish Whiskey for the alcohol, but we wanted to punch it up a bit. We added our housemade cinnamon syrup, and it gives it an other kick altogether! Great for sipping on a hot day.
This honeydew margarita is pure perfection. Its light, refreshing and has the perfect mix of honeydew, lime and of course tequila! Summer is full of amazing seasonal melons and I plan to take full advantage of it. This summer fave is a mix of Casamigos Blanco Tequila, freshly juiced honeydew, organic lime juice, agave and a Tajin rim for a little spice.
Transport yourself straight to a tropical island with this guava cocktail spiked with pineapple-infused rum! It's sweet, tangy, refreshing and a sure way to start off your summer. Housemade pineapple-infused rum adds so much flavor, and it's well worth the extra time. Koloa Kauai White Rum infused with fresh pineapple, Cointreau, fresh guava nectar and organic lime juice.
This beauty is a collaboration of the most delicious kind. I can never resist those huge boxes of strawberries when I see them-they scream summer to me! Many of those berries went straight into vodka for the sweetest smelling infusion you could hope for. When brainstorming how to use this "special sauce," we turned to our friends who make their own limoncello. Two housemade infusions in one drink! The vodka gives it strawberry taste, smell, and color plus kick, and the limoncello adds sweetness and a smooth texture without being too sweet. A splash of lemon fizzy water and a rosemary garnish makes each drink full of summer sunshine.
Don't let the uppity name fool you-this one is a LOT of fun. It's super refreshing, tastes a bit like iced tea, and is the perfect antidote to summer heat. The list of ingredients will tip you off that this is worth the work and has a surprising combination of fresh, citrusy, crisp flavors: gin, sweet vermouth, and triple sec pair up with sparkling lemonade and ginger ale, then garnished off with slices of cucumber, orange, and lemon. Cheers!
I think this is technically called a "John Daly"? I know nothing about golf so I didn't want to give it a name that didn't make sense to me. BUT I do know lots about all the ingredients. Iced Tea? Yes! Lemonade? Yes! Vodka? Obviously! I've stepped up this classic drink by infusing the vodka with fresh Meyer lemons, and its ohhhh so worth it! We've got Tito's Handmade Vodka infused with fresh Meyer lemons, Nilgiri Black Tea steeped in the warm California sun, fresh squeezed Meyer lemon juice and local honey for a bit of sweetness.
Whatever the calendar is telling you, this Blackberry Margarita wants you to know it's perfectly acceptable to drink any day of the week. It's ultra refreshing, pleasantly fruity and has a reliable way of disappearing more quickly than you expect it to. It’s light, not too sweet, and pairs well with summer nights and outdoor patios. We've got an amazing blend of Hornitos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, housemade blackberry juice, fresh squeezed lime juice and a sea salt/sugar rim.
If ginger beer is what ginger ale wants to be when it grows up, this drink is what ginger beer looks up to. A delicious combination of 100 proof Rittenhouse Rye, sweet vermouth, bitters, and ginger beer, this would be at home at a wedding, bar mitzvah, birthday party, or any other occasion including a regular week night. This one will make you fall in love without needing to get your Van Halen t-shirt back! (Adam Sandler, Flock of Seagulls hair, and DeLorean not included.)
I think of this as lemonade's zestier, sparklier friend. Fill a tall glass with ice and this delightful drink that combines dry vermouth, sparkling white wine, fresh lime juice, and housemade mint syrup. We pulled out all the stops to make this one extra special!
My garden is full of fresh basil so I've been busy finding fun new ways to use it. Lemonade tends to be my favorite thing to use as a "mixer", especially in the summer. So I've just made a fancier and fruiter version that is too delicious for its own good. Hanger 1 Vodka, housemade blueberry basil syrup, fresh lemonade and garnished with basil.
I really feel like grapefruit gets overshadowed by other citrus fruits, and tends to be underrepresented. This Summer Paloma will have you remembering why grapefruit is so delicious! I have a ton of rosemary growing in my garden and the herby/floral flavor of it mixed with grapefruit is AHH-mazing! It's a refreshing mix of Hornitos Reposado Tequila, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, honey rosemary syrup, lime juice and a splash of sparkling water.
Hot days call for watermelon, and this drink fits the bill! Sweet, but not overly so, and with enough sassiness to balance it out, this drink combines fresh watermelon, lime, and sweet vermouth, then kicks the flavor up a notch with Crème de Mûre and a splash of sparkling water for a touch of fizz.
Our testers were unequivocal: this one is GOOD. We've been soaking fresh, sweet strawberries in vodka for the last month, and this is an experiment that definitely worked. We combine our home-infused strawberry vodka with lime juice and housemade mint simple syrup. You'll wish you ordered more!
Summer is the absolute best time for melons, so I am going to take full advantage of that for as long as I can. I've been so lucky with watermelons this season and have had the sweetest ones ever! This refreshingly sweet cocktail will have you enjoying these last weeks of summer. Homemade watermelon juice, fresh squeezed limeade, Ocean Organic Vodka, garnished with lime and mint.
Sticking with all things summer and tropical, this margarita fits right in. I have tons of home grown jalapeños from my garden, and when you run out of things to eat them with ... obviously you soak them in tequila. The sweetness from fresh pineapple juice and the spice of the jalapeno, is absolute perfection. House infused jalapeno Hornitos blanco tequila, Cointreau, fresh pineapple juice. fresh lime juice, agave with a sea salt/organic cane sugar rim.
This drink is everything fresh, plus the warmth of star anise, ginger, and cayenne pepper. We start with a London dry gin, then start layering the sweet orange of Triple Sec, then fresh lemon juice from our tree, then housemade local honey syrup, and then mango and aromatic spices (lots of flavor, but nothing too hot). Seriously...trust me, this is the perfect combo: the tropical flavors are reshresing and the spices give depth and kick.
Our friend Scott took a trip to Mexico recently and brought us back fresh dried hibiscus flowers for tea. It's got a fruity flavor with floral notes that's just a bit lighter than traditional iced tea. We couldn't just leave it well enough alone, so we added bourbon to the freshly-brewed iced tea, and then a touch of limoncello for sweetness. Fruity, fresh, and delicious!
Keeping with the theme of using all seasonal fruit, I started infusing fresh organic bing cherries in Tito's Handmade Vodka over a week ago. It looks amazing, and it's guaranteed to be absolutely delicious! I used to love that cherry lemonade from Hot Dog on a Stick (don't act like you didn't love it too!), and this is just as good, but clearly not meant for kids ;) Bing cherry infused Tito's Vodka, housemade lemonade, fresh mint syrup, and a cherry/mint garnish.
Peaches. Possibly my favorite part of summer. So, we tried our hand at preserving some for later-in alcohol of course! A fresh-flavored mojito is a great drink for when the heat keeps coming. Instead of regular rum, we added housemade peach rum, which has added a sweetness to this refreshing beverage. Housemade mint syrup and some club soda for a bit of fizziness completes this summery concoction, and it is sipping perfection any time you need a break!
Pairing the tartness of blackberries with the savory aroma of sage gives a surprising combination of flavors that will completely delight! After muddling blackberries and sage, and adding housemade blackberry syrup, we added tequila and lime to bring out the brightness of summer. It's sweet, and fruity, and fresh, and herby. Really everything you need for a summer weekend.
I LOVE spicy margaritas! I planted an orange habanero in my garden this year, and it is loaded with them! Adding some to a cocktail was inevitable. It's an upgraded level of spicy, that mixed with the sweet mango is just perfection. Hornitos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, fresh mango blended with housemade habanero honey syrup, fresh lime juice and a sea salt rim.
In an attempt to keep summer alive as long as possible, I will just keep making tiki drinks. This drink has all the things that make tropical drinks delicious. But fair warning with this one! The mix of two rums and liqueur, it really packs a punch and has the possibility of making crawling up the stairs to pass out all too much a reality (this may or may not have happened in the creation of this cocktail lol). Housemade pineapple infused Cruzan Rum, Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum, Macadamia Nut Liqueur, fresh pineapple blended with housemade POG and Coco Lopez.
Move over mimosas-there's a new favorite brunch drink around here! The Matador is summery and tropical in all the best ways. It'll pair just as well with a leisurely breakfast as it would some spicy Thai takeout, or even toasting the end of a long, long day. Fresh lime juice and pineapple juice work wonders with añejo tequila. A splash of bitters and some housemade simple syrup bring the depth. Try this one, and trust us, it's the perfect beverage for any time of day!
Making the most of the end of blackberry season, we couldn't forget one of Kirk's favorites-the Old Fashioned. Our garden is bursting with basil right now and the aromas of that herb blend with the sweetness of the blackberries to give an entirely new level of flavor to this classic drink. To concentrate the flavor, we created a tincture of basil to bring out the warm, herbal notes. The Bulleit bourbon speaks for itself and pairs nicely with the sweetness of the berries in our housemade blackberry syrup from fresh, organic blackberries. This is a concoction made with time, love, and the warm summer sun. While we'll make you a double, it'll come in a smaller jar because this one is not messing around--meant for sipping and savoring.
As the season for cherries is coming to an end, I had to find one more drink to make with them. Fresh organic cherries blended with housemade mint syrup makes this one smooth and easy to drink cocktail. Makers Mark, cherry liqueur, blended fresh cherries, housemade mint syrup and a squeeze of lime
In a effort to continue my goal of making EVERY type of margarita, I settled on this ...Guava-Rita. As it may be obvious to some by now, Tiki drinks and margaritas are my vibe. And this felt like the perfect combination of the two. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, guava nectar, housemade sour with a Li-Hing Mui salt rim
This drink is a nod to our favorite TV show of all time (The West Wing)! We couldn't resist. It's just like the show in that it's sophisticated and irreverent at the same time. Organic lemonade is the base, to which we added Creme de Mur, a heavy pour of Kirk's favorite whisky, and a splash of lime juice. Like Josh Lyman himself, it's a little sweet and packs a deceptive punch. It's refreshing and easy to enjoy.
Nervous about figs? Same. I'm asking you to go out of your comfort zone here! But, fig trees in the neighborhood are bursting right now and our farm stand has been over-flowing. We played around with these unique little fruits until we came up with cocktail success! It's an entre into fall, with plenty of summer fun. Fresh sage from our garden becomes a syrup that is herbal and fresh. The sweetness of figs is balanced with plenty of white rum and triple sec. Lemon juice and club soda keep it fresh and fizzy and fun to drink. This cocktail is tasty and oh-so pretty!
Sooooo I realize that summer is technically over, but since the weather is still warm and sunny, I'm staying with my tiki drink vibe. I love the color of this drink so much, and it tastes like summer (I know, its not summer ... but I'm pretending lol) With two different rums, this cocktail is also deceivingly strong, so consider yourself warned. Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Koloa Kauai Coconut Rum, Blue Curacao, organic pineapple juice, pure coconut water and a squeeze of lime.
Maybe my next menu will feel more like fall, but I just wasn't ready (I'm a summer girl!). Watermelon is still delicious and the mint in my garden is plentiful. There's something about watermelon and mint that just go perfectly together. It's clean and fresh and almost too easy to drink. Ketel One Vodka, fresh juiced watermelon, housemade mint syrup and a splash of lime.
Juniper, cherry, lime, and sage are the major players in this crisp drink that effortlessly bridges the gap between summer and fall. Our housemade sage tincture adds a subtle and mysterious herbal note to the fresh ingredients of Gin, organic cherry juice, and freshly squeezed limes from the backyard. This one seems to pair with everything! Put up your feet in a pair of cozy socks, light a candle and sip away.
This drink is like the winner of a contest to include all the classic fall flavors-cinnamon, caramel, and apple! It's fiery and sweet at the same time. You know what happens when you take fresh apple cider and cinnamon sticks and boil them down to their very essence? A housemade syrup that is smooth and delicious! Fireball Whiskey is our secret weapon here-and as promised, it'll warm you right up. A bit like the poisoned apple in fairy tales, there's more to this than meets the eye, and it comes in an 8oz jar as a double because we don't want anyone falling into an endless sleep here!
I'm convinced that there isn't a just season for margaritas, they are meant to be enjoyed year round! And if you don't believe me, this Horchata Margarita will change your mind. It's light, but creamy and has just enough cinnamon to make it feel like the perfect Fall cocktail. I played around with a couple different horchata recipes, and found the perfect one to compliment this Fall flavored margarita. Centenario Anejo Tequila, Rumchata, housemade horchata with a cinnamon stick garnish.
And now on to the tiki drink! But it does have nutmeg, isn't that a Fall flavor?! ;) A traditional Painkiller is one of my faves, but this twisted version adds some depth and makes it feel a little more like Fall (at least thats what I tell myself lol). I've infused the bourbon with fresh pineapple for a little added tropical flavor, and it makes all the difference. Housemade pineapple infused Bulleit Bourbon, Orgeat, organic pineapple juice, fresh squeezed lime juice, citrus bitters and a dash of nutmeg.
You probably know by now that Harry Potter is big around our house, so we had to try this one. Like He-who-must-not-be-named, this one will sneak up on you, so be on your guard! It's a beautiful mix of fall flavors: Kirk's favorite bourbon, raspberry liqueur, tart pomegranate juice, juice of a fresh lemon, and a splash of maple syrup. It's moody, full of depth, and perfect for your Halloween capers!
Our cucamelons didn't get the memo that summer is over, so we decided to use our harvest in a fresh, fall way that's perfect for spooky season. They look like the cutest little watermelons, but taste and crunch just like a cucumber! A few slices of serrano peppers make you take this cool drink one sip at a time. Anejo tequila mixes with a splash of simple syrup, plus plenty of fresh lime juice to keep things fresh. Don't let the clean, light color fool you-this one will have you breathing fire with a happy smile on your face.
If you thought I wouldn't find a Halloween tiki drink, you were wrong! The Zombie cocktail is actually pretty legendary, its been around for over 80 years! Originally created by the famed tiki drink connoisseur Donn Beach (aka Don the Beachcomber), who supposedly made it to help cure a hangover. With four different types of alcohol, to say it packs a punch would be an understatement. If you have more than two of these you probably won't turn into a zombie, only because you most likely won't be walking at all ;) Sticking with Zombie tradition I'm pouring Bacardi Superior, Bacardi Black, Ararat Apricot Brandy, Falernum, fresh squeezed orange juice, pineapple juice, lime juice and a dash of housemade grenadine.
FYI - no children tasted or helped in the creation of this cocktail lol. Ryder really wanted me to name a drink after him, and ya know sometimes we just have to pick our battles :) I LOVE the color of this drink. It's such a cool and mysterious dark purple, it almost looks black. And as much as I love the color, I equally love the taste. All of the flavors work so well together, these cocktails tend to magically disappear very quickly! Maker's Mark Kentucky Bourdon, housemade blackberry syrup, POM Wonderful, a squeeze of lime with a rosemary garnish.
We know what you're thinking: there's no way that this actually tastes like apple pie with ice cream. We were in the same boat until we whipped up a batch and tried it, and we have to say, it tastes EXACTLY like it. We don't understand the strange alchemy of why it works, but the results are absolutely delicious. We simmered apple cider and apple juice with regular and brown sugar, apple pie spices, and cinnamon sticks, and then combined it with Everclear, caramel vodka, and vanilla vodka, and let it mellow over a couple of weeks. This one's a heavy hitter, so go slow!
This pie-inspired drink has all of the warm baking spice notes you'd find in a pecan pie, thanks to a homemade tea and pecan orgeat. All those cozy, nutty flavors are offset by Hornitas Reposado tequila and fresh lime juice to make one sweet sipper.
Okay okay, I KNOW! Fireball?! Everyone has a "I'll never drink Fireball again" story. Trust me, so do I (it wasn't even all that long ago at a Christmas or retirement party, lol I don't remember IYKYK)! But with that being said, this is such a good combination it will change your mind about never drinking it again. Hornitos Reposado Tequila, Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey, housemade sour, a dash of agave and a cinnamon/turbinado sugar rim.
And on to this weeks tiki drink haha! This peanut butter whiskey cocktail has a tiki vibe with a fall flavor. I love the flavor combination in this drink, and I am officially hooked on this whiskey. Skrewball Whiskey, Koloa Kauai Dark Rum, fresh squeezed orange juice, pineapple juice and Coco Lopez.
Who says you can't have your coffee and your old fashioned, too!? Audrey isn't the biggest fan of old fashioneds, but this is one that she really enjoyed. She said, "This is the perfect after-dinner drink with a slice of pie." Bulleit Bourbon, Mr. Black Cold Brew coffee liquor, a splash of simple syrup, and a couple dashes of both orange and Angostura bitters. These are made with all premium alcohols that pack a punch, so it'll come as a triple in an 8 ounce jar.
Fall is fantastic and it's finally sweater weather! We are definitely looking forward to a few days off for Thanksgiving and enjoying some family time. This Pomegranate Punch is just the answer to help get you in the holiday spirit and will go down easily whether you're helping in the kitchen or relaxing by a fireplace. Its a delicious blend of POM Wonderful, fresh squeezed orange juice, Cointreau and then topped with Prosecco.
Welcome to the perfect Thanksgiving cocktail. It's mellow and delicious and will keep you festive and merry with family and friends. Bulleit Bourbon, fresh squeezed orange juice, housemade orange ginger syrup, citrus bitters and garnished with housemade brandied cranberries.
Literally "Apples for the People," because we were totally inspired to try a drink that our new friend (and cocktail maven) Jessica had made, but we didn't have any champagne chilling at the time (I know, can you even imagine??). Anyway, we made it more accessible for the masses by including ginger beer instead...and ended up with a truly delicious concoction that embraces the fruits of the season and the crispness in the air. Calvados gives it the apple crispness, Triple Sec and lemon juice bring the citrus, and ginger beer adds a hint of sweetness, plus a nice fizz. After taste-testing this one I scribbled "flouncing through an orchard of happiness," on the recipe we perfected...so, there's that for a description!
Words cannot describe the goodness here. I'll try, but trust me, just order a bunch and settle in. It's triply Irish: Irish cream and Irish whiskey, plus Guinness reduced to a syrup. Chopped and melted dark chocolate and milk give this drink a depth that makes it satisfying and creamy. It's boozy and awesome. Reheat it slowly to retain it's power, but this one tastes just as incredible cold as well—like the most bomb chocolate milk you've ever had! *This drink is made with milk and lasts only about a week in the fridge, so don't try to save it!
I know what you might be thinking - Mojitos for Christmas? Answer - Heck yeah! It's still got the rum, mint and lime that makes Mojitos so delicious, but with coconut milk and pomegranate arils for a magical holly-berries-on-snow effect. The result is a delicious, festive cocktail that will quickly become a Christmas classic. Bacardi Superior, Koloa Kauai Coconut Rum, housemade mint syrup, coconut milk, fresh lime juice, sparkling water and garnished with mint leaves pomegranate arils.
Christmas and tequila go together just like Santa Claus and Rudolf, they are a perfect pair. This Mistletoe Margarita has all the usual margarita makings but with muddled cranberries and a housemade rosemary syrup to really get you in the Christmas spirit. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, muddled cranberries, lime juice, housemade rosemary syrup with sugared cranberries for a garnish.
We mixed Italian basil grown in our kitchen garden with fresh, organic blueberries to create this infusion that tastes as incredible as it looks. Each jar was packed with freshly picked basil at the height of the season and left to mellow for several weeks before we added the blueberries. The herbal scent and hint of sweetness from the fruit make this infusion extremely versatile when shaking up your own favorite cocktails at home! For gift-giving, we've also included a suggested recipe to make your own Basil-Blueberry Mule.
Summer in a bottle! Fresh and floral any time of year-this crisp vodka infusion has so many uses. Lemons from our tree infused for several weeks before finishing with fresh lavender from the bush right behind it. They really are the perfect pairing-bright citrus balanced with subtle herby floral notes. At the same time summery and classic. For gift-giving, we've also included a suggested recipe to make your own Lavender Lemon Drop.
I love using infused alcohols in many of my cocktails, but this one can also be sipped on its own. Winter citrus is always so sweet, so I added oranges from the tree in my yard with a vanilla bean to Makers Mark Bourbon. Its bright, fresh and delicious.
Liven up your holiday party with this delicious combination of warm chai spices, zippy lime, tart cranberry juice and smooth Bulleit bourbon. The secret here is the housemade chai syrup-the product of simmering 8 different spices in ginger beer. Cranberry and lime perk up the cozy spices and the bourbon mellows out your evening; this cocktail will have you feeling the holiday spirit in no time!
I love a classic Paloma, but this Spiced Cranberry Paloma really puts me in the holiday spirit and has helped make all my online Christmas shopping much more bearable ;) It has many of the traditional ingredients but adding cranberry juice and housemade spiced syrup (made with whole cinnamon, cloves, anise and vanilla bean) makes this cocktail super festive and cozy for all the winter vibes. Hornitos Reposado Tequila, organic cranberry juice, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, lime juice, housemade spiced syrup and garnished with sugared cranberries.
Citrus season always has us reaching for grapefruits! We love that they taste so good, and they mix well with so many other flavors. This light and refreshing elixir has tart grapefruit and cranberry flavors (which play very well together) paired with Tower vodka (our new favorite 91 point artesianal craft vodka from Texas) and a floral hit from Drillaud Elderflower liquor. Our tasting notes include "fresh and super tasty," and that about sums this one up!
We know you're thinking of Val Kilmer in Tombstone right now, and this one is a lot like Doc Holiday: sweet with some tartness, and packing a surprise punch. The sweetness of organic Wild Huckleberry jam is tamed by lemon juice and smooth Canadian whiskey, and club soda gives it some sparkle, just like Val. Sip this one after dinner while watching your favorite movie!
Well 2022 hasn't started off exactly how I had hoped, but I'm not giving up on it yet. Positive vibes and Vitamin C are going to keep our bodies and minds healthy! This cocktail has lots Vitamin C rich ingredients but with a "healthy" dose of Tito's Handmade Vodka. Tito's Handmade Vodka, fresh squeezed Cara Cara orange juice, housemade honey syrup with ginger and turmeric.
Grapefruits are so good this time of year and they are so good for you too! I've been eating AND drinking them like crazy. I've been infusing Hornitos Blanco tequila with several jalapeños for a couple weeks now so the spice level should be perfection! It will be spicy enough to clear up any stuffed up sinus's for sure. Jalapeño infused Hornitos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, housemade sweet and sour with Pink Himalayan Rock Salt rim.
We're sticking with grapefruit on this one; it's just soooo good! We mixed Tower Vodka and fresh grapefruit juice with a housemade rosemary syrup, and then added just a bit of housemade rosemary tincture. The rosemary and grapefruit mix together so well, with neither of them overpowering the other or getting too harsh, and the syrup brightens it up nicely. A key to this one is adding the zing of sparkling water on top; one taster said that it was perfectly balanced, and another said, "It feels like Goldilocks in a patch of rosemary; not too sweet, not too herbal, but fresh and just right!"
Sometimes you just need a good sipper when you're cuddled up under a blanket with a good book or your latest show. We started this one with Rittenhouse Bottled-in-Bond 100 Proof Rye, which will definitely make you feel all warm inside, and added just enough rosemary and honey to mellow it out to level of cozy that Audrey (normally not a whiskey fan) describes as "Like a warm hug." A couple of dashes of Angostura bitters elevate the complexity in this near-perfect riff on the Old Fashioned. Comes in an 8 oz jar.
Well it's finally happened ... we invited tequila to our rum party and let me just say, this is a party you don't want to miss. It's the kind of party you end up blacked out and not sure how you got home, but yet you want to do it all over again next weekend. Okay okay, that (probably) won't happen if you drink this margarita, but you know what I mean. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Appleton Estate Signature Blend Dark Rum, Cointreau, Orgeat, housemade sour, pineapple juice garnished with lime and Luxardo cherry.
Yes, I realize both of my drinks are tropical and summer-ish. But dreaming of warm, tropical and summer vibes are all that's getting me through this Omicron madness! You can sip on this while dreaming of all the summer vacays you're planning, and the less stressful months coming our way. Tito's Handmade Vodka, mango puree, fresh lime juice and a housemade blackberry honey syrup floater.
We love cherries in our house, and this one shines a spotlight right on them! This one takes you on a trip to the slopes, whether you'll be enjoying fresh mountain air or just imagining it from somewhere a little warmer. With fresh cherry juice balanced by classic Bombay Sapphire Gin, maple syrup as an homage to Canada, and just a hint of homegrown sage to remind you of the trails first thing in the morning, this tipple is almost as good as being on a cool forest hike in Banff, minus the cold temperatures! Garnished with Amarena cherries, it reminds us of a drink to enjoy after your last ski run down the mountain. Sweet, tart, and coolly refreshing.
After seeing how many people liked the spiciness in our Fire-Breathing Dragon, we wanted to find more interesting ways to use spice in cocktails. We thought, what better contrast to spicy than cool pear? We soaked jalapeño, serrano, and hot Thai peppers in Tower Vodka for two weeks to get a healthy kick and added fresh organic pear juice for a bit of coolness, a bit of sweetness from simple syrup, and just enough fresh lime juice to balance everything out and tie it together. This one is definitely a new favorite in our house, and we think you'll love it too!
It's February. Which means only a few more weeks until March. Which means it's almost April so basically spring is near and summers almost here. So this perfectly pink and sweet martini is here just in time. You can sit back and sip while shopping for this summers bikini (or board shorts for the dudes). Strawberry infused Tito's Handmade Vodka, fresh squeezed lemon juice and housemade strawberry jam.
This pretty pink drink is sure to have you feeling the love on Valentine's Day. Not quite a margarita, this Pink Senorita is a refreshing tequila cocktail that will have you feeling like love is in the air. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, housemade raspberry syrup, organic lemonade and a fresh mint garnish.
Here is your new favorite drink: bold and citrusy and irreverent in just the right amounts. Honestly, we had to try it after reading a bartender's blog where he waxed poetic about this drink for pages and pages. He's not wrong. Here's a snippet: "Sometimes, though, it breaks through on the sheer power of its creativity and simplicity and deliciousness, on the fact that it’s a crowd pleaser without being dull, that it’s a fast favorite of both amateurs and professionals, and that it might, quite simply, be the best cocktail invented in the last 100 years. And if it’s all those things, it means we’re talking about a Paper Plane...The Paper Plane is more subtle and charming, like a whiskey & orange juice that grew up handsome, and for whom everything is going right." With a review like that, we had to go in search of some rather rare and interesting spirits to make it and now we're glad we did. Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon, Amaro Nonino, Aperol, and lemon juice combine in a concoction that it much more than the sum of its parts. Because of higher ingredient costs (Amaro Nonino and Knob Creek), this will be in an 8 oz. jar.
The credit for this one goes to our friend (and frequent taste-tester) Jonathan. He poured one of these after we got home from a long day of traveling and a week of lots of cold weather, and this warmed us right up! Maybe you need a pick-me-up too? Botanical, esoteric, and delicious are the first words that come to mind, and this drink is the remedy for most anything. The alchemical combination of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey, Lillet Blanc, Yellow Chartreuse, and a dash of agave syrup with an amarena cherry garnish will relieve any stress you have, and set you up for a lovely rest of your day. Because of higher ingredient costs (Chartreuse is expensive!), this will be in an 8 oz. jar.
The recent Super Bowl halftime show has renewed my adoration and undying love for Snoop Dogg. I mean, the vibe, the voice ... its just sooooo ... okay I'll stop now ;) So as an ode to the original D O double G, I have a leveled up version of Gin & Juice. Bombay Sapphire Gin, St. Germain Elderflower, fresh strawberry puree, housemade sour with a lemon zest/sugar rim.
In an effort to clean out my fridge, I stumbled upon leftover strawberry puree, fresh grapefruit juice and jalapeno syrup. I didn't want to waste any of it, so the obvious answer was to add tequila. I made it for a couple friends to get their opinion and hopefully a fun and innovative name (we can see how well that went lol). But they loved it too! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, strawberry puree, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, fresh lime juice, housemade jalapeno syrup with a sea salt/sugar/chili powder rim.
Imagine a brisk hike in the lush green Irish highlands with your favorite person—this drink is that in a glass! Refreshing and crisp, with a hint of sweetness. We took Irish Whiskey on a picnic with Elderflower liqueur, a muddled cucumber for freshness, and fresh lemon juice for zip. You'll be raising a glass to your favorite lassie (or laddie) soon!
When I was young my Mom would only rarely let me drink store bought juices ("too much sugar!"), but when she did give in, I would always pick the Dole Pine-Orange-Banana juice. It was soooo good, and I loved the blend of flavors. With the bounty of oranges on our backyard tree, I decided to recreate my fave juice in a adult version ;) Pineapple infused Tito's Handmade Vodka, Drillaud Banana Liqueur, fresh squeezed orange juice, organic pineapple juice with a maraschino cherry/orange garnish.
When I said my backyard orange tree was bountiful, I meant I could literally bath in orange juice haha! I typically use a splash of orange juice in my housemade sour because it works so well with Cointreau. I figured I would step up the orange level, eliminate the sour and make a margarita of mostly fresh squeezed orange juice. It is so organically sweet and delicious, I only use a dash of agave to balance out the citrus. 21 Seeds Valencia Orange Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, fresh squeezed orange juice, dash of agave with a sea salt, cane sugar and orange zest rim.
Are you ready to get "shamrocked"?! This is my contribution to your St. Patrick's Day festivities! This festive little green shooter is light, fruity and creamy with some Jameson Irish Whiskey tossed in the mix. It goes down almost too easily, so be careful or you might not be able to find any gold at the end of your rainbow ;) Jameson Irish Whiskey, Baileys Irish Cream and Midori Melon Liqueur. Four pack of 2 oz. individual shooters.
This sparkling cocktail is like a hike in an Oregon forest-beautiful and refreshing! Housemade lavender syrup from our garden brings a floral note to organic blueberry juice, and a squeeze of fresh lemon, with a good kick of our favorite herbal gin, then top it all off with soda water for extra sparkle. Springtime in a glass!
Fresh fruit & herbs beg to be put into cocktails...at least at our house they do! Our Grapefruit-Thyme Bourbon Smash is full of flavor and begs to be sipped outside. Fresh, organic grapefruit juice is the base, then we took thyme from our herb garden and soaked it in 120 proof Everclear for a couple of weeks to make a housemade thyme tincture that's loaded with flavor. A squeeze of lime brightens things up, and then a healthy pour of Knob Creek Bourbon mellows things out while still giving it a good punch. A sipping drink that reminds us of the brightness of spring.
I love Spring! It means were just that much closer to Summer and Summer means, TIKI DRINKS! Not that weather ever keeps me from drinking tiki drinks, it just tastes better when the sun is shining ya know?! With three different rums, you'll feel the sun shining down on you in no time. Appleton Estate Jamaican Rum, Wray & Nephew Overproof, Cachaca, housemade blackberry, banana and pineapple juice, tiki bitters and citrus.
There is some debate whether this cocktail is technically a tiki drink. But it's fruity, floral and would be perfect for sipping while lounging by a pool or enjoying the sun in your backyard. Call it what you want, I call it delicious ;) It's a variation of the traditional Singapore Sling, but with more tropical flavors. Hendrick's Gin, St. Germain Elderflower, Benedictine, organic pineapple and lime juice.
If I had to choose just one drink forever, it'd probably be a G&T. So refreshing, so chic, so adaptable. This baby here is our springtime version of the classic. May we present an elevated Gin and Tonic with fresh blueberry tang (from pressed organic berries, obvi) and earthy rosemary (organic from our garden). Yum. Great for warm evenings, for contemplating the meaning of life, for toasting, well, anything! We love the botanicals in Bombay Sapphire, plus it's dry finish is the perfect match for the blueberries, then we sweetened things up with housemade rosemary syrup plus a dash of housemade rosemary tincture to make sure the herbal flavors were the star! You're gonna love this spin on an old favorite—or it may just be the perfect entré for you if you've been hesitant to try a more traditional G&T.
It'll have you singing "The hills are alive with the Sound of Music!" in no time. Switch the Austrian alps for the Scottish highlands and you'll have the picture. This was a fun one. We used Velvet Falernum (which is also just fun to say) for the first time, and it definitely won't be the last! Not only for tiki drinks, this liqueur gives off hints of ginger, lime, almond, cloves, and allspice (those are a few of my favorite things). So, Falernum, plus Tower Vodka, plus fresh lemon juice from our tree, plus Kirk's favorite Scotch (Glenmorangie 10 yr), plus local honey and a dash of lavender bitters equals springtime bliss. No sassy outfit made from drapes required to enjoy this masterpiece, but you may just get inspired!
Well the time has officially come! I mean, it's not summer yet but its close enough! Tropical tiki drinks are coming your way! Coconut is one of those flavors that just makes you feel like throwing on a bikini and heading to the beach (or maybe that's the rum haha). Either way, this cocktail is loaded with coconut (and rum!). It's sweet, yet refreshing and so tropically delicious. Selva Rey Coconut Rum, Wray & Nephew Overproof Rum, organic coconut water, lime juice, Coco Lopez with a toasted coconut rim.
We've got 6 weeks (6 right? I lost count lol) until Summer vacation! Warm weather and more relaxing days are so close! I made a tiki margarita a couple months ago, and it inspired me to get more creative mixing tequila with tropical flavors. I LOVE Palomas, so adding pineapple seemed like an obvious way to make it tropical. This super delicious Spring (yet oh so close to Summer) cocktail will help make these next 6 weeks fly by! Hornitos Blanco Tequila, Heering cherry liqueur, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, organic pineapple juice and dash of housemade agave syrup.
Classic, straightforward, always agreeable-gotta love a gimlet! Local honey and homegrown rosemary give summery vibes in our housemade syrup that adds just the right balance of sweet to this herbal refresher. Fresh squeezed limes and Bombay Sapphire gin remind you that summer is almost here. Cooling and sophisticated, just right for winding down in the evening and contemplating summer plans.
No need to overthink this one-imagine lavender lemonade meets bubbly, then gets a strong backbone of vodka. Embrace the cliche of rosé and drink this one alllllll day. It's bubbly and bright enough to help ease whatever ails you. Housemade lavender syrup and freshly squeezed lemons from our tree combine with a healthy pour of Tower vodka. We'll include a small bottle of dry sparkling rose, so you can get the prescription just right for you!
I'm back on the strawberry train this week, because they are just too good right now! They are sweet, tart and refreshing and brighten up almost anything you put them in. Obviously, putting them in cocktails is pretty high on my list. I've been infusing Tito's Handmade Vodka with fresh strawberries to help really kick this one into serious strawberry love. Strawberry infused Tito's Handmade Vodka, St. Germain Elderflower, housemade strawberry jam, organic strawberry lemonade with a splash of fresh squeezed Meyer lemon juice.
I know I always say this, but this margarita is soooo delicious! The sweetness of the strawberries with the fresh peppery basil might just be my fave margarita this spring. I've done it a little different this time by blending the strawberries, tequila and Cointreau, then shaking it up with my housemade sour and muddled basil. It makes for a perfectly smooth yet shaken margarita. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, fresh strawberries, housemade sour, fresh basil and a sea salt rim.
This drink is ready for summer! It's light, fruity, and so very refreshing. To get you poolside, we mixed our favorite vodka (Tower Vodka--a 91 point artisanal craft vodka from Texas), with fresh squeezed lemons from our tree, and a splash of housemade grenadine syrup. A perfect mix of tangy and sweet!
Like San Francisco itself, there is a lot going on here to make a perfect mix of sophistication, history, and fun. We embraced the diversity of flavors and made our own spiced rum! The warmth of a good rum kicked into gear with some of my favorite spices means we had to give it a try. (We even upped the orangey-ness of this drink and added fresh orange peel to the chemistry of star anise, vanilla bean, allspice, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg).The island vibe of the spiced rum comes through with perfect complexity as it blends with the citrus of orange liqueur and a splash of housemade simple syrup to balance the natural bitter from the citrus. The cable car is new favorite at our house, and is soon to be yours as well!
It's sweet, spicy and all the things that will help put the school year behind you and get you in the mood for summer! There's just something about this cocktail that that checks all the boxes. Jalapeno infused Tito's Handmade Vodka, Pallini Limoncello, housemade jalapeno lemonade, honey syrup with a fresh jalapeno slice for garnish.
Oh hey Summer, where have you been?! I've missed you (and this cocktail) all year! This margarita will have you feeling beach or pool vibes at first sip. The refreshing flavors of all your favorite summer fruits mixed with my from scratch sweet and sour are the perfect base to add tequila. Margaritas are my vibe, and this one definitely won't disappoint. Hornitos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau. fresh watermelon, pineapple and strawberry juice, housemade sour with a sea salt rim.
Some may say that I'm a bad influence, but I prefer to look at it as encouraging fun ;) It's never a bad time for a shot (unless you've had too many haha), and it's the perfect way to start off a party! These shots are called double trouble for two reasons. One is that there's two types of liquor in these little cups. The other is they go down so smooth and taste so good you may want to make sure you've got Uber downloaded on your phone. Hornitos Reposado Tequila, Stoli Crushed Pineapple Vodka, Organic Pineapple Juice and Coco Lopez.
What's sweet, hot, and ready for summer? (Besides you, of course!) This cocktail uses our housemade spicy vodka which packs quite the serrano kick, and balances it with fresh pineapple and lime juices and our housemade rosemary-honey syrup. It's spicy, sweet, and just what you didn't know you always wanted. Fans of the Fire Breathing Dragon, this one's for you!
This one will take you to where we all wish we were right now: a white sand beach on tropical island. Hard-hitting Plantation overproof rum and sweet fresh pineapple juice are balanced by the tartness of Aperol and lime juice. Careful; this one packs just enough punch to send you off on a pleasant holiday. Book your (virtual) flight now!
These shots are so fun and oh so delicious! Creme de cacao and Bailey's Irish Creme spiked with just a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, plus a splash of chili powder. It's like an amazingly rich adult hot chocolate with a bit of spice. You'll want to drink all four at once!
I've been waiting for this one-literally! Once strawberries came into season, I grabbed a few extra flats and stuck them straight into jars and jars of Tower Vodka, crammed in some fresh lemon balm from our herb garden for extra zest, and waited. And waited. Thankfully, the time has come! The vodka is now perfectly infused with bright, sweet strawberry goodness and a fresh lemony herbal zing. Fresh squeezed lemon juice and a splash of simple syrup are balanced perfectly-all you need is ice! This drink is made for summer. ***This one tastes good on the rocks, but I recommend you add 4 ice cubes and throw it all in the blender to whirl up the perfect hand-crafted cocktail to beat this heat!
Peaches are my absolute favorite fruit. They are summer personified for me, and we just brought back a flat from my parent's tree! Think of a perfectly ripe peach, all sweet and juicy. Now picture a sprig of fresh mint, like a cool breeze you can smell and feel, melted into a delicious syrup. Imagine the floral, sweet strength of Elderflower liqueur and a perfectly chilled bottle of French Riesling. Blend them all together with some ice in your blender until perfectly slushy and you have a deliciously sophisticated drink for anytime you need something to toast the tastes of summer!
Summer is here and the tiki drinks are flowing! Nothing says summer like tropical juices and rum ... and vodka. I mean, its summer, let loose a little right?! Koloa Coconut Rum, Stoli Crushed Pineapple Vodka, pineapple juice, mango nectar, and a splash of grenadine (mainly for looks).
Soooo my Watermelon Margarita is a big fave around here, so why not add some Rosé and make it a Paloma?! This drink is simple, but it's so GOOD. I mean, watermelon, tequila AND Rosé?! Add a spicy, salty, sweet, and tangy rimmed glass? Yes, yes and yes! Hornitos Blanco Tequila, fresh watermelon juice, Rosé wine , lime juice and a spicy/sweet rim.
Hot days call for something to cool you down while you lounge by the pool or in your backyard, and this is just the drink for that! Bombay Sapphire gin and a good rosé wine combine with lemon juice, a housemade Rosé-hibiscus simple syrup, and the fizziness of seltzer water to make the heat a little more bearable. Don't be scared away by the gin: tasters loved this one at the Open House...one even said, "it's my new favorite! so yummy!"
Who didn't have creamsicles during the summer growing up? This drink takes the classic combination of oranges and vanilla and puts an adult spin on it. We combine chardonnay and Tower vodka with orange juice and lemon juice, and then we added the secret ingredient: a housemade syrup made with real vanilla bean and fresh thyme; it ties everything together in one smooth, delicious package. Add a bit of seltzer fizz, and you're set!
I've been a baseball mom for a long time now, and have spent many hours working the Little League snack shack. If you know anything about snack shacks, they typically have slushy machines. And if you've watched as many little league games as I have, you know you've dreamed about adding vodka to those slushy machines. Well I've helped you out and done it for you! You're welcome lol ;) This cocktail is best blended but can also be shaken. Absolut Citron Vodka, fresh squeezed Meyer lemon juice, housemade honey syrup with a fresh mint garnish - add 1/2 cup of ice and blend.
Spicy margaritas of all kinds are some of my faves. Something about jalapeno just goes so well with tequila. I recently made Cowboy Candy (if you haven't made it, doooo it!) with my Mom. It's a sweet yet spicy type of candied jalapeno. It's so good, so obviously I added it to a margarita, because ... duh ;) I typically would add some kind of fresh fruit or juice to balance the spice, but none needed here! The candied jalapeno is all it needs! Tanteo Jalapeno Tequila, house sour, homemade Cowboy Candy with a sea salt rim.
For the first two weeks of July, our family went on what we're calling the "Great American Road Trip": 10 other states and almost 5000 miles in 16 days. In Fort Collins, Colorado, we visited good friends that we know from our time in Kenya. One evening, we went to some of their friends' house, and the host served this. Both of our cocktails this week are from one epic night, featuring our standbys of Bourbon and Gin. This one's a lovely sipper made with Knob Creek bourbon, Amaro Nonino, Maraschino liqueur, just a touch of simple syrup to sweeten it a bit, and an Amarena cherry—perfect as an after-dinner digestive. Comes in a smaller jar because it packs a punch!
This prohibition-era cocktail is one worthy of its name! It's a perfect drink for sipping on a warm summer night with good company and conversation. Good Bombay Sapphire gin, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice garnished with an Amarena cherry combine to create this classic. You'll agree: this one gets the last word! Because of the high cost of ingredients (Green Chartreuse is expensive!), this will come in a smaller jar.
I don't know how many of you used to (and maybe still do) drink Peach Snapple?! But it was a staple in my house for years. I recently infused vodka with fresh peaches and wasn't sure how I was going to use it, until I had the bright idea to add it to lemonade/iced tea. It was love at first sip and instantly was reminded of those yummy bottles of peach tea I used to drink. Peach infused Tito's Handmade Vodka, Pallini Lemoncello, fresh squeezed Meyer lemon juice and cold brew black tea.
Fun Fact! I didn't drink tequila for 15 years because I had waaayyyy to many Tequila Sunrise's on my High School senior trip to Mexico. Thankfully I came around and it's now my go to liquor for most cocktails. I changed up this classic by using a freshly made strawberry puree instead of the usual grenadine. It keeps it sweet without adding the sometimes overpowering sweetness grenadine can have. Hornitos Reposado Tequila, fresh squeezed orange juice (from the tree in my backyard!), housemade sour and strawberry puree.
An apple for all the teachers out there! Crisp and balanced, this is a great drink to hail the beginning of a new school year. We start with our favorite Calvados and combine it with apple juice, housemade sour, and a dash of bitters for a drink that definitely gets an A+!
I celebrated my birthday this week and my usual request for dessert is lemon merengue pie. Sweet, a bit tart, and full of summer sunshine. This drink is all those things plus alcohol! Vanilla vodka, housemade sour, and lemon curd get together for a party in the glass (and your mouth!). It's uncanny how much it reminds me of my mom's famous pie. Raise a glass and find something to celebrate!
Greyhounds are one of my favorite classic cocktails. I've upgraded this classic with fresh squeezed red grapefruit juice and added a hint of basil to freshen it up. It's light and summery and will help keep you feeling like summer isn't slipping away (even though it is, noooooo!). Tito's Handmade Vodka, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice and a housemade basil honey syrup.
Captain Jack Sparrow once asked, "But why is all the rum gone?" and now we know the answer: it's all in this drink! This drink packs in three types of rum (Plantation 5 year Gold, Meyer's Dark Jamaican, and Plantation Overproof O.F.T.D.) and combines them with Velvet Falernum, fresh grapefruit and lime juices, cinnamon syrup, a dash of absinthe, and a dash of bitters to take your mouth on an amazing trip to the tropics. If ever there was a drink that will make you want to be a pirate, this is it!
Peaches are my absolute favorite, so every summer we buy them by the flat. This year we decided to take some of the juiciest ones and soak them in Ketel One vodka for about 6 weeks. The results are unbelievably peachy and delicious, and perfect for a twist on the Cosmo. The sweetness of our housemade peach vodka, triple sec, and a touch of simple syrup is balanced by the tartness of cranberry and lime juices to make this a super summery way to enjoy the warm weather while we still have it!
We may be back in school, but Summer isn't technically over. So the tiki drinks are still flowing around here! This is a sweet yet not too sweet drink that makes sipping after a long day just too easy. I know some people are skeptical about Campari, but I challenge you to give this a try, it's so good you won't be disappointed. Appleton Estate Signature Jamaican Rum, Campari, organic pineapple juice and housemade sour.
I've done a Summer Margarita before, but this is a whole different vibe. Part deux blends some of my favorite margaritas into one and I just can't get enough. It was one of those accidental on purpose type of things, when I was running low on watermelon juice so I threw in some guava and omg it was love at first sip. While I am technically calling this a "margarita" I did add some rum, just for fun, because we are back to work/school and sometimes we just need a little something extra, ya know?! ;) Hornitos Blanco Tequila, Flor de Cana Rum, Cointreau, housemade sour, fresh watermelon juice and guava nectar.
The name might sound like an aprés-ski concoction, but in reality this is an excellent tiki drink! I know, I know; we've been on a bit of a rum kick the last couple of menus, but all of them have earned their place, and this is no exception. Regardless of the weather when you drink it, you'll feel like you're sitting on the beach in the sun, drinking this with an umbrella in your cup. Plantation 5 year gold rum, Aperol, pineapple and lime juices, and just a touch of simple syrup round out this sweet (but not cloyingly so) sipper.
Collins drinks are everything you want in a summer classic: refreshing and tasty with a little zip. We added the a hit of limoncello to this to bump up the lemony deliciousness. This one will definitely help you cool down this weekend! Bombay Sapphire Gin, Bellini Limoncello, lemon juice, and club soda (to taste).
Looks like we've officially entered the portion of the summer when people are "so ready for fall". Well I respectfully disagree with all those hot weather summer haters haha. I'm in no way ready for summer to be over! This light and refreshing smash is just the way to cool down and enjoy these last days of summer. Traditionally "smash" cocktails are made with whiskey, but with the hot weather I thought vodka would feel lighter and more refreshing. Jalapeno infused Tito's Handmade Vodka, organic blackberries, housemade spicy syrup and fresh lime juice.
I love coffee ... is a total understatement. I LIVE for coffee. I don't function without it. I don't even need fancy coffee shop brews, I'm totally content with my home brewed coffee. BUT what I do really love is when you wake up late on a weekend and take the time to make what my husband calls a "special coffee". It's a fun way to start a weekend and sets the vibe for a good day. Cruzan Coconut Rum, Blue Bottle Cold Brew, orgeat and Coco Lopez.
The perfect cocktail for easing into fall: floral without being overpowering, and a pleasant citrus finish that sneaks up on you (just like this weather!). It's bright and elegant, with layers of citrus and herb flavors. We mixed Bombay Sapphire Gin with elderflower liqueur, gave it a healthy splash of fresh lemon juice and finished it with creme de violette. Crisp and delicious!
Spicy ginger and sweet, crisp pear work together to make fall magic here! Autumn vibes abound in the fresh gingery kick that balance the delicate sweetness of fresh pear in the fun of an autumn margarita. Hornitos Reposado Tequila is our base for pear juice, kicked up with freshly sliced ginger, freshly squeezed lime juice, then sweetened with Agave in the Raw, then given an edge with a dash of citrus bitters.
It's going to take me a little while to adjust to fall vibes, so I'm going to keep drinking summer cocktails until I'm forced to give up my flip flops for actual shoes. This smash hits all the right points with the sweetness of summer strawberries and the fresh basil. I'm not really known for making many whiskey cocktails but this one is a definite fave (even for the non whiskey drinkers!). Makers Mark Whiskey, fresh strawberry puree, lemon and housemade basil syrup.
Two beloved cocktails - Aperol Spritz and Margarita - came together to make one fun and refreshing margarita that's as delicious as it is beautiful. The combination of tequila and Aperol is so good, you'll be wondering why I didn't come up with this sooner! I am too, friends! But now that I have ... Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Aperol, orgeat, housemade sour and a Tajin garnish.
So about a month ago, we took the last of the summer's peaches and put them in Ketel One vodka to think about what they'd done, and now we have the most delicious peach vodka! Naturally, we wanted to come up with something special to remember summer by, so we married the peach vodka with the taste of our housemade basil tincture made from the basil that's still going crazy in our garden. We then added Lillet Blanc, housemade sour, and a couple splashes of sparkling water for a fizzy zing. One taster said, "I could drink a lot of this and then not stand up for awhile," and others said, "Lovely," "Super drinkable," and just "Woah." This baby comes in a smaller jar because it's pretty much all alcohol, with a sparkling water to add to your taste.
Our official tasters were unequivocal: this is one good margarita. (Okay, technically two since it's a double.) We start with a base of Hornitos Reposado tequila and mix in spiced apple cider, triple sec, lime juice, and a pinch of brown sugar for just a bit of that deep molasses flavor. It's a super smooth and delightful cocktail that will remind you of summer while easing you into fall.
I know it's technically Fall, but I definitely wouldn't call this sweater weather. Sooo I'm going to keep the light and refreshing cocktails going until I'm forced to wear sweaters and real shoes. I started infusing vodka with jalapeños and serranos about a month ago. It needs to be used before it actually catches fire because it's that spicy. Not to worry, I'll tone it down to make this cocktail enjoyable haha. Infused Tito's Handmade Vodka, fresh watermelon juice and house sour.
This paloma is a perfect way to ease from Summer to Fall. The sweet and refreshing fresh squeezed grapefruit juice mixed with the tart pomegranate creates a flavor truly meant for Fall (and tequila, definitely meant for tequila lol). Hornitos Blanco Tequila, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, pomegranate juice, house sour and a rosemary sprig for garnish.
This is an easy-sipping drink, but don't be fooled. This princess isn't waiting for some man to save her; she comes with a sharp edge. We start with Bombay Sapphire gin and add in Lillet Blanc, fresh lime juice, housemade mint syrup, and a couple dashes of orange bitters. You'll fall in love, but don't make the mistake of thinking she's a damsel in distress; she packs a punch, and she can take care of herself.
Most people think of tiki drinks as summer or poolside cocktails, but ironically they actually have many fall flavors like citrus and warm spices. Tiki drinks have always been my niche but I like to try to make them as seasonal as I can (because we all know I am drinking them year round). Apple cider definitely isn't a common tiki ingredient but it mixes so well in this cocktail, it even surprised me. Appleton Estate Rum, local organic apple cider, pineapple juice, housemade allspice dram, lime juice and tiki bitters.
Halloween is here! I've taken a traditional margarita and made it a little more festive by adding some delicious very berry puree. It wouldn't be a holiday if we didn't have a margarita to go with it! And it makes trick or treating with our monsters all that more bearable lol. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, housemade very berry puree, fresh lime juice with a sea salt rim.
For our three Thanksgiving drinks, we thought we'd walk you through your day. We took a chance on this first one, and it definitely paid off! One of our favorite things for breakfast during the holidays is dessert and coffee. This drink tastes like a freshly baked cobbler with a cup of coffee: warm and cozy, fruity with coffee—you've gotta try it to believe it! Fino sherry and Mr. Black coffee liqueur combine with fresh orange and lime juices and just a splash of simple syrup for sweetness. Sip it as you plan your activities for the day, or better yet, over a slow brunch with friends!
Our second drink is fall in a tumbler. Overproof Rittenhouse Rye gets your blood running hot, two kinds of cider sweeten and spice it up, and a few dashes of bitters give it depth. My Great Aunt and Great Uncle have an apple orchard down in Watsonville, and they used to sell their apple harvest to Martinelli's for cider, so naturally we use Martinelli's cider along with Angry Orchard Crisp Apple hard cider for a nice bitey fizz. Pour yourself a healthy glass of this over ice and enjoy your Thanksgiving dinner. (Larger sips can also help you tolerate family members who say the darndest things.)
Okay, okay; so we really like Mr. Black! Probably has to do with our coffee addiction, but we digress. This drink Is an ideal after-dinner sipper: guaranteed to relax you as you digest your Thanksgiving dinner! Malibu rum (we know, but trust us—it's great!), crème de cacao, and Mr. Black play oh so nicely with just a touch of heavy cream and chocolate syrup. Comes with a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie to top off your night.
Truth be told, pumpkin flavored stuff isn't really my jam. Everyone is always so excited for pumpkin season and I just couldn't ever get into it. Until now ... funny how when you make something yourself it just tastes better. The flavors in my housemade pumpkin spice sauce add the perfect amount of fall spice and sweetness. Throw in some spiced rum and you almost don't need the coffee haha. Blue Bottle Cold Brew Coffee, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, organic oat milk, housemade pumpkin spice sauce and pumpkin spice to sprinkle on top - I added whipped cream to mine and you should too!
Aperol is my new fave. I've been adding to almost all my cocktails at home. I always thought it was the same as Campari, which is just okay for me. But Aperol is like, ooookkkkayyy I love you. The sweet yet bitter flavor is perfection with cranberry juice and housemade spiced orange syrup. Cranberry infused vodka is a staple in my house and it levels up this cocktail to warm you up all the through. Cranberry infused Tito's Handmade Vodka, Aperol, organic cranberry juice and housemade spiced orange syrup.
Happy Thanksgiving, friends! This is one of my favorite holidays. I love spending time with my family and friends and I wish you all a happy Thanksgiving day to do the same. This fall inspired margarita is just what you need to get into the Thanksgiving spirit, just don't drink too many or you may burn your turkey! Hornitos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, spiced apple cider, homemade apricot jam, fresh lime juice and a sugar, salt, pumpkin spice rim.
This cocktail was invented at the Hotel Pontchartrain in New Orleans in memory of Jim Morrison’s stay there. We found it a bit ago, and it was an immediate hit for us! It has just the right balance of juicy, tangy, and bitter that makes everything better! Since Jim's birthday is coming up on December 8th, we figured we'd offer this as a tribute to the Lizard King himself. Bulleit bourbon, Aperol, and fresh lime juice combine very nicely with the spicy kick of ginger beer and a couple of dashes of Peychaud's bitters for complexity. It's the perfect cocktail to drink while listening to music with friends. Since the ginger beer comes separate, this will come in an eight oz. jar, the perfect size for mixing with a whole bottle of ginger beer.
Continuing on the Doors theme, we've got this little number that'll set the night on fire (though not literally, unless you drink too many of them!). We know, we know; as Christen said a couple of weeks ago, everybody's got a college Fireball story, usually involving some very suspect mixers and A LOT of fuzzy memories, but we promise, this isn't your roommate's Jungle Juice! Spiced apple cider and the cinnamon punch of Fireball mix it up with just a bit of the fizzy ginger kick of ginger beer for a drink that makes an excellent addition to any celebration. Sweet, apple-y, and fun. Try it; you (and your taste buds) will thank us!
Annnnnd I'm back to tiki drinks lol. It's been a few weeks, right?! To be fair, it's tiki with a winter vibe. It's the perfect blend of island vibes mixed with the winter citrus of fresh squeezed grapefruit juice. It will take you on a mental vacation with just the first sip (have a couple drinks and you'll be there all night haha). Flor de Cana White Rum, orgeat, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, housemade grapefruit syrup, aromatic bitters and a Plantation Dark Rum floater.
Meet my new friend, it's a classic margarita with a festive makeover just for the holidays. The Amaretto and fresh squeezed orange juice gives a winter warmth to this bright and sunny cocktail. The sweetness from the Amaretto and orange means I've skipped the agave and sugar, so I'm telling myself these are guilt free, you're welcome lol. Cazadores Tequila Blanco, Cointreau, Amaretto, fresh squeezed orange juice, fresh lime juice with a sea salt rim.
Perfect sipping to make your day merry and bright-let us introduce the Breakfast Old Fashioned. Named for the tasty seasonal flavors of orange, cinnamon, and maple, this drink is actually good at any time of day! Kirk loves a good Old Fashioned, but they're usually a bit too harsh for Audrey. This is one that we both enjoy, though. It's another great way to elevate something that's been maligned for too long-Fireball. Trust us-the warm cinnamon kick combines with the sweetness of pure organic maple syrup and the slight tartness of freshly squeezed orange juice with just a touch of orange bitters to raise the complexity. Much more than the sum of its parts.
Pear is such a versatile cool weather fruit-it can be warm and cinnamony or crisp and cidery. Our spiced version serves up a perfect balance of fresh pear sweetness, our rich housemade allspice dram, the cozy kick of Pataka Ginger liqueur, and the natural warmth of Bulleit bourbon. Take this to your next holiday party and give the best toast in town. A perfect drink while you're waiting up for Santa (or to leave out for the big guy if you want to be his favorite house on the block!).
Christmas Paloma 2.0 - another fave back and better than ever. It has many of the traditional Paloma ingredients but adding cranberry juice and housemade spiced syrup (made with whole cinnamon, cloves, anise and vanilla bean) makes this cocktail super festive and cozy for all the winter vibes. Hornitos Reposado Tequila, organic cranberry juice, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, lime juice, housemade spiced syrup and garnished with sugared cranberries.
This Jack Frost Cocktail is just what the doctor ordered when the rainy cold winter has hit, but you’re daydreaming about the beach. If you can’t go to a tropical island, I'll bring the tropic vibes to you! This drink is tropical like a piña colada, and festive all at the same time. Flor de Caña 4 year Rum, Blue Curacao, organic pineapple juice, fresh squeezed lemon juice and Coco Lopez.
Ready for gifting! Juicy apples, semi-sweet pears, and iconic holiday spices of whole vanilla beans, cinnamon, and star anise come together for a cozy and warm flavor in this infused vodka. Delicious on its own over ice, plus we've packed it up with recipe suggestions to create the perfect gift this season.
This infusion takes two of our garden's overflowing herbs and creates a cool breath of fresh air to add to any cocktail. The combo makes it the perfect substitute for Absinthe or Pernod, with the benefit of being homemade and extra fresh. Packaged up and ready to go with fun recipe suggestions for a unique, DIY gift to yourself or anyone who loves a good drink!
Extra gingery. Herbal notes of rosemary from our housemade tincture balance the bite of citrus from a glass of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. We sprinkled the perfect pinch of dark brown sugar into Bulliet Bourbon to give it depth and smooth sweetness. Adding your own ginger beer lets you control the sparkle.
The winter holiday break is a chance for us all to feel like a kid. This playful drink tastes just like the delicious milk in the bowl after enjoying Cinnamon Toast Crunch! So stay in you jammies, if you want, this fun drink is going to make your day. The secret here is in a mix of unlikely companions-smooth RumChata, spicy Fireball, and Sweet Vanilla Vodka.
Whether you are starting early on New Year's Eve or need a little something to get you moving on New Year's Day, this fun coffee cocktail is just what you need to get your party started (or help cure your hangover lol). Cruzan Coconut Rum, Stoli Vanilla Vodka, Blue Bottle Cold Brew, chocolate oat milk, Coco Lopez and toasted coconut to sprinkle on top.
Happy New Year, friends! Thank you for letting me help you celebrate with cocktails all year long! Blood Oranges are in season and just so good! I love mixing fresh squeezed orange and blood oranges together so you get the best of both worlds. Tito's Handmade Vodka, St. Germain Elderflower, fresh squeezed orange / blood orange juice and a sprig of mint to garnish.
You guys. If you tried our tarragon-mint infused vodka over the holidays, you already know where this is going. We ended up making our own batch so that we could keep enjoying this tasty tarragon cocktail! This drink is earthy, herbal, and fresh. It is sweet and unexpected. Light and delicious. It's bracing like the weather, but so warming to drink! Our housemade tarrragon-mint vodka pairs beautifully with freshly squeezed lemons from our tree, a splash of simple syrup for balance, and the fizz from Sprite, to taste. Cheers!
Nothing warms me up like a bourbon smash. It's been so fun to keep trying new riffs on this tasty classic. This week we took a cue from the winter weather and found a new delightful mix by adding pure maple syrup. The result? A Comforting, smooth, rich cocktail that is good anytime of the day! Bulleit Bourbon, freshly squeezed orange and lemon juices, plus a dash of bitters to complement the rich sweetness of maple syrup. Brunch? Lunch? Dinner? Yes!
Yep, it's freezing. My fingers and toes are frozen. Soooo what better time is it then to make a tiki drink and pretend it's warm and sunny. This perfect tiki drink will transport you to the tropical island you were meant to be relaxing in and help you forget you are wearing layers of clothes just to stay at a normal temperature. It's full of traditional tiki flavor (and also lots of liquor lol) so brace yourself. Flor de Caña Rum, Carpana Antica Sweet Vermouth, Velvet Falernum, banana liqueur, organic pineapple juice and a dash of bitters.
In a effort to completely forget that I'm frozen from the inside out, I'm sticking to all things tropical. I was introduced to a cocktail called Marble Queen a few years ago, so this is a upgraded version made to lift your spirits and hopefully body temperature haha. Espolon Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, organic coconut water, housemade sour and Coco Lopez.
This delightful little drink is a happy little celebration in your mouth! We wanted to find a cocktail for all of you that would be sweet and delicious, but with a little bit of a bite, just like Valentine's Day! French Framboise and a bit of simple syrup provide lovely sweetness, and Bombay Sapphire Gin and Pataka Ginger Liqueur (fair trade) give it just enough bite. A splash of fresh lemon juice rounds out this drink that'll you'll fall in love with!
Oh hey sweetheart ;) This Sweetheart Margarita is just the way to celebrate this day full of love! Its sweet and tart (just like any good relationship is lol). And just since it's Valentine's Day I figured I'd make this cocktail more fun by adding Pop Rocks as a rim! A little Valentine explosion never hurt anyone haha. Hornitos Blanco Tequila, Chambord, housemade sour, fresh raspberry puree with a Pop Rocks rim.
My drinks this week are both classics that are reimagined, and to kick it off, we have this little number. The Negroni is undoubtedly a classic, and according to some sources, one of the most-ordered cocktails in the world. I have a confession: I've always found them to be overly bitter and harsh, so I decided to tinker with it. I kept the base of Tanqueray London Dry Gin, swapped the Campari out in favor of the citrusy Aperol, and added both Elderflower liqueur and lemon juice in place of the vermouth. Guys, it's honestly a revelation! Fruity with a good hit of orange, it's very well-balanced and really nice. A new favorite in our house!
Today, the Rusty Nail is probably best known as a popular name for a bar rather than as a cocktail. According to one source, most people think that it's a relic of the roller-disco era, and best left there. But it has so much potential! The original recipe of Scotch and a heavy pour of Drambuie over ice is oversweet and not that interesting, but there's a riff on the old-fashioned hiding in there. We've swapped out the Drambuie in favor of Benedictine, tinkered with the ratios to dial back the sweetness, and added just a bit of orange bitters to up the complexity. Audrey generally doesn't like Scotch at all, but she likes this one A LOT: "It's smooth, balanced, satisfyingly sophisticated, and delicious!" Glenmorangie 10 year, Benedictine, and orange bitters. This one is all killer/no filler, so it comes as a triple in an 8 ounce jar.
It's literally raining oranges in my backyard! They are coming down faster than we can eat or drink them, so I definitely needed a orange cocktail so everyone could enjoy them. It's a leveled up screwdriver and gives you at least your daily dose of Vitamin C. Tito's Handmade Vodka, Grand Marnier, fresh squeezed orange juice and a splash of housemade thyme syrup.
It's been a while since I've done a spicy drink and it felt like it's about time! I was recently making a buffalo cauliflower appetizer that had a hot honey sauce to drizzle on top. While I was making it I knew instantly I'd find more uses for it and a margarita seemed like the obvious choice haha! It's smooth and sweet with a fiery kick that has just enough heat to make you want another sip. Hornitos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, housemade sour, hot honey and a chili salt rim.
During the past week, our family went down to Disneyland and California Adventure and had an awesome getaway together. If you haven't tried them yet, Disney has some great cocktails in California Adventure, and this selection from Pym Tasting Lab was one of the best! It's sweet and fiery with an unexpected pop from the boba. We've had serrano peppers soaking in tequila for a looong time, and this was the perfect chance to use them, giving you a pleasant burn in the back of your throat as the mango syrup cools everything down nice and sweet, and the mango boba gives a nice extra pop of fruit. Cheers to your inner mad scientist!
If you've ever needed a glass of courage to face down a huge rollercoaster (or another week of work), this beauty is for you! Another favorite concoction from Pym Tasting Lab in Avenger's Campus, the Honey Buzz 2.0 is a delightful balance between the sweetness of honey (thanks to Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey Whiskey) and some freshly squeezed lemon juice and a splash of housemade honey syrup. This will have you buzzing sweetly in no time!
Well our week long break is over and it's back to work. My bestie and I took our kids to the Great Wolf Lodge for a couple days of water slides and fun. And while that entire resort is geared towards kids, that Watering Hole bar they've got perfectly situated right in the middle of the waterpark is pure genius (and very necessary; if you've been there you know what I mean!). We got real familiar with their bar menu and found one that made all that chlorine, humidity and noise bearable haha! Cruzan Mango Rum, Koloa Coconut Rum, a fresh squeezed tangerine, lemonade and pineapple juice mix with fresh squeezed lime.
My bestie and I have mastered the art of vacationing with our kids (technically I don't think traveling with kids is a vacation, but that's another conversation lol). One of our secrets is bringing your own drinks! We always bring easy to mix cocktails we can throw in our Yeti's and be on our merry way! This is a delicious drink you can make ahead and throw in a pitcher and take anywhere you may be headed. Tito's Handmade Vodka, St. Germain Elderflower, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, housemade grapefruit syrup, a dash of bitters and a coconut sugar rim to make it feel fancy.
I was feeling my Irish luck this week when I realized that it was St. Patty's Day AND Girl Scout Cookie Delivery week! This cool and creamy treat is an ode to both reasons I'll be celebrating. What if you'd just like to enjoy those favorite flavors of Thin Mints in a different way? Like in a fun cocktail form, perhaps. Well, you absolutely can. This fun cocktail is a combination of creme de menthe, creme de cacao, vanilla vodka, and Bailey's Irish cream mixed with some 1/2-&-1/2 for creaminess (cannot sub non-dairy, sorry). The creme de menthe and creme de cacao give this cocktail the mint-chocolate flavor to match that of its classic cookie inspiration. And creme de menthe also gives it its pretty green color, too.
An Irish twist on one of our favorite cocktail classics-the whiskey sour. So drinkable and satisfying. A good whiskey sour strikes a perfect balance between sweet, sour, and spirits—this one hits that balance perfectly. Here, there is more focus on the lime (plus a little fresh lemon) to sharpen up the sour notes. And there's a generous pour of good Irish whiskey (we chose the legendary Tullamore D.E.W.) to make it authentic! Order a batch to toast your friends—Sláinte!
I'm obsessed with this drink. Currently drinking while typing. It's so good, so fresh and easy to drink. I'm so thankful to have a backyard full of sweet and juicy oranges. It makes cocktail making and recipe testing so much easier. You'd think it would save me money but my kids charge me a dollar per orange for picking them haha. Tito's Handmade Vodka, Campari, fresh squeezed orange juice, lemon and a dash of maple syrup.
Don't count this one out. You might think "carrot?, no thanks", but trust me ... it's sooooo good! When I say it's delicious and refreshing, I mean it! It's also nice to know that as your sipping, your body is rejoicing with all the beta-carotene! If this is how you add more veggies to your diet, then so be it! Jalapeño infused Hornitos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, freshly made carrot juice, house sour with a sea salt rim.
This drink is inspired by a character from one of our current favorite shows: Ted Lasso! If you haven't watched the show, order some drinks and get to it! If you have, you'll know why any drink named after him must include vanilla vodka (such a child). Also like Jamie, this drink is secretly a big softie that is actually amazing! We combine the obligatory vanilla vodka with tart cherry juice (see what we did there?), triple sec, and fresh lemon juice.
This Ted Lasso themed drink is inspired by Rebecca Welton, owner of AFC Richmond. She is without a doubt a strong woman who doesn't put up with any crap, but keeps it classy no matter what happens. Since the show is set in London, we started with a base of Tanqueray London Dry Gin, added orange liqueur, and finished it up with fresh lemon juice. Imagine a classier and extra-smooth version of a Gin and Tonic or a well-spiked lemonade, and you're getting close to the deliciousness of this drink.
Jumping into Spring over here! And it couldn't come soon enough. Berries are sweeter, air is warmer and the cocktails just taste better. This fresh and just sweet enough strawberry cocktail is all you need to get into the Spring feeling. Strawberry infused Tito's Handmade Vodka, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, housemade strawberry jam, Meyer lemon juice and a sugar/lemon zest rim.
So I know I was just talking up Spring and how great it is, but I'm really just counting down the days until Summer. Summer is my vibe and now that the sun is finally shining I can just feel my fave season on the horizon. So I'm going to get the feeling started by making a super yummy with a kick of spice margarita to get you all in the mood. Cazadores Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, organic coconut milk, housemade sour, jalapeño syrup and a Hawaiian black lava sea salt rim.
A Tom Collins may very well be the perfect spring/summer drink. It's herbal, sweet, and refreshing with just enough fizzy zing to wake up your tastebuds even more! The classic combination is great, but we swapped in some honey syrup to up the complexity, and we're so glad that we did! Tanqueray London Dry Gin, fresh lemon juice, a blend of housemade simple and local honey syrups, and club soda to top it off to your liking. This is a perfect drink to enjoy a lovely spring evening on the patio with the dog. It's May in a glass!
This might be one of our new favorites! It features sharp citrus notes at the foreground with mellow tropical fruit playing a close second. It is (of course) super yummy and refreshing. This is a wonderful drink to enjoy when you’re sitting down for the evening – less so if you plan on dancing without falling over! Hpnotiq and Tito's Handmade Vodka play oh-so-nicely with fresh orange and lime juices and a dash of bitters for more depth and complexity.
I know it's Spring, but I've got my eyes on Summer and it couldn't come soon enough. Pineapple is one of the best flavors when it comes to tiki drinks, and this one won't disappoint. Flor de Caña 4 year Rum, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, organic pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, orange bitters with fresh mint leaves to garnish or muddle into your cocktail.
Let me start his off by letting y'all know that I only recently started enjoying Mezcal. I used to feel like it was always way too smokey and overpowering ... until I had it in a margarita. The blend of tequila and mezcal was so good and so smooth. If you are on the fence with Mezcal, give this a try and see if I can change your mind. Hornitos Reposado Tequila, Illegal Mezcal Joven, fresh squeezed clementine juice, house sour and a smoked citrus salt rim.
In all this gloomy weather, I needed something to convince me that spring was really here-this was my answer! I love grapefruit (hence my Paloma obsession), but wanted something different. That's how we found the Blinker, and I'm so glad we did--it's been a classic since the 1930s for a reason! This drink is vibrant and sophisticated. It combines rye whiskey with fresh grapefruit juice and a bit of grenadine. It's a great introduction to rye if you're not familiar with the spirit (or haven't tried it in a while). The Blinker gives me sweet-n-sour vibes and makes me want to order in some Chinese and call it a night!
Lately we've been having fun making things with rum, and this spin on a Negroni is the perfect example. A good Negroni is the epitome of balance, and this riff hold true to that: It has such a smooth mouthfeel, it's fresh and sweet, and has a great balance of bitter to keep everything in check. We took a funky, overproof Jamaican rum and mixed in equal parts Aperol and sweet Vermouth; each component works in perfect harmony with the others for a taste of the islands that you'll absolutely enjoy.
When you are in a cocktail rut and can't figure out what to make, I am grateful for friends who tell you all about the delicious drink they had so I can recreate it! So, thanks Nicole! I changed this up a little from the traditional recipe, but that's what makes it special, right?! Pineapple infused Flor de Caña 4 year Rum, Cruzan Coconut Rum, Disaronno, organic pineapple juice, cranberry juice and fresh squeezed lime.
I've convinced myself this is a healthy margarita, because it kinda is ... lol. It has a veggie, a herb, a citrus and a splash of hot sauce just for a little kick... all the things you add to a healthy green juice. Just because we add tequila doesn't change that! It’s refreshing, light and the perfect way to start cruising into Summer. Hornitos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, blended cucumber, mint and agave, and fresh lime juice with a Tajin rim.
There's nothing that says 'summer' like tiki drinks, and this one's a classic for a reason! It blends Blue Curaçao with Bacardi White Rum, Coco Lopez, and pineapple juice. It's blue and tastes like one imagines Hawaii would taste if it were a drink. Get your summer started right with a trip to the islands!
Camping is such a huge part of summer! There's nothing like sitting around a fire and roasting marshmallows with friends—except of course, doing the same thing with a scrumptious cocktail! This flavorful cocktail features a variety of fruity flavors with a cinnamon kick from the spicy Fireball whisky. It will warm your tastebuds, and the vibrant colors will remind you of a bonfire on a warm summer night. Fireball cinnamon whisky, Bacardi white rum, peach nectar, pineapple juice, tart cherry juice, and grenadine. Yum!
I know that school is starting up, so this one keeps my mind where it longs to be–back at the beach! This drink is bright and sunny with the perfect hit of sweetness. Imagine the clean, natural flavor of Bacardi White Rum combined with the refreshing taste of coconut water, then layering in freshly squeezed orange and pineapple juices. Amaretto adds an unexpected depth and then grenadine punches up the flavor and color until you've got the perfect beach beverage. Enjoy seaside, poolside, or really anywhere you'd like a little more beach in your life!
Jasmine flows over our patio in summer, giving our favorite cocktail-sipping place a sweet smell each time the breeze flows.This beauty is one of our summer favorites-so refreshing and easy to drink. We mixed up a delicious blend of classic Tanqueray Gin, orangey Cointreau, delightfully citrusy Aperol, and a healthy splash of fresh lemon juice for a cocktail that just tastes and feels like summer! If you can't find me, I'm probably on my back patio with one of these in my hand and a serene smile on my face.
Summer melons are still sweet and so is this margarita! To be honest, I haven't made a margarita that I didn't like, but this one is pretty high on the favorite list. Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, freshly juiced cantaloupe and housemade sweet and sour.
Just because we're back to school and work doesn't mean the Summer cocktails aren't still flowing! Peaches are one of my favorite Summer fruits so I had to take advantage of them while I can. Tito's Handmade Vodka, Grand Marnier, fresh peach / thyme syrup and organic lemonade.
Walking through our abundant garden right now, the mint and cucumbers are in full swing, so we had to find a way to get those flavors into this week's drink! This is a light, almost fizzy cocktail that takes all the freshness of summer and makes it delightfully sippable. Sometimes thought of as the super fresh take on a whiskey sour, the Kentucky Maid is so much more than that. I was skeptical at first, but when it came to taste-testing, gentle reader, I DID. NOT. SHARE! This is rare, since a bourbon drink is not my normal go-to. Everything is balanced so perfectly: the Bulleit Bourbon, the dash of syrup, the muddled cucumber and mint leaves, and the squeeze of a lime. My advice? Order enough for this long weekend so that you won't have to worry about sharing either!
This little Caribbean cutie is so fun and tasty, it instantly takes you to an island in a hammock swaying in the tropical breeze. Light and fresh, this riff on a classic tiki drink blends Bacardi white rum with the lightness of coconut water, the richness of white crème de cacao, the tart punch of fresh lime juice, and the sweetness of honey. Whether or not your weekend involves any seaside excursions, this drink will make you feel like you're on a tropical vacation!
I'm leaning into the tropical vibes heavy this week. We've only got a few more weeks until Fall but the weather says otherwise. This creamy, sweet but refreshing cocktail is just what we all need to help us ease back into the regular school/work routine. Cruzan Coconut Rum, Stoli Vanil Vodka, fresh squeezed lime juice, organic pineapple, Coco Lopez, fresh mint to muddle/garnish and a graham cracker rim.
I'm dedicated to coming up with new ways to make a spicy margarita. While still staying true to the tropical vibes this week I knew I needed a tropical flavor to add to this habañero infused margarita. It's a super delicious combo of pineapple and orange and I honestly cannot get enough of it. The mix of sweet and spicy is my ultimate cocktail kryptonite lol. Habañero infused Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, housemade sour, fresh squeezed orange juice, organic pineapple and a sea salt rim.
This sneaky-tiki treat is super refreshing! Sophisticated and complex, it'll keep pulling you back for another sip so that you can try to put your finger on that taste. Equally at home at a soggy-dollar swim up bar or as an après-ski at a resort in the Alpes. One thing's for sure: it's delicious! Tito's Handmade vodka, and Dolin Genepy Le Chamois play nicely with Don Benigno Fino Sherry, orgeat, fresh lemon juice, and just a bit of simple syrup.
It's hard letting go of summer, so don't! This lovely tiki cocktail will whisk you away to a beach where you don't have to do anything but relax and enjoy the sunset. The Fog Cutter is credited to Trader Vic Bergeron, who invented it in the 1940s, and there many variations, but they all pack in plenty of citrus, almondy orgeat syrup, and a kitchen-sink approach to the base liquor. We wanted to have a drink that kept the complexity while balancing the flavors. Bacardi White Rum, Plantation Aged Rum, Tanqueray Gin, Grands Domains Cognac, Alto del Carmen Pisco, and dry sherry combine with fresh orange and pineapple juice, orgeat, simple syrup, and a dash of bitters to create a deceptively mild treat that's perfect for a mental escape.
After spending the weekend with a couple of my best friends at the lake house, we created our very own cocktail to celebrate being together. It's equal parts strong, sweet and refreshing, just like us LOL. Tito's Handmade Vodka, Bacardi White Rum, Cointreau, organic pineapple, cranberry, and lime juice topped with club soda.
As I'm starting wrap my head around the reality that Fall is approaching, my cocktails might take a bit to feel seasonal. Strawberries are still so sweet added with a hint of fresh thyme it becomes the perfect Summer (almost Fall) paloma. Cazadores Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, organic grapefruit, strawberries, and honey thyme syrup.
The perfect cross-season margarita! The apple cider gives it serious fall energy, and the cinnamon and cayenne pepper give it the right balance of sweetness and spice. Hornitos Reposado tequila, apple cider, fresh-squeezed lime juice, a touch of agave sweetener, plus a punch of cayenne mellowed just a bit by cinnamon.
This lovely drink will help you to hang on to the summer vibes for just a bit longer! It pretty much screams fruity and refreshing, and would be perfect for unwinding after a long day (or week!). Plantation 5 year aged rum, fair trade Pataka Ginger liqueur, clean and tropical coconut water, mango nectar, and fresh-squeezed lime juice.
Well it's happened ... Fall is here and we are moving into cooler weather and weird pumpkin flavored things (I hate pumpkin stuff, sorry to all you pumpkin lovers lol). This is the time of year I struggle to find cocktails that feel seasonal with flavors I enjoy, because I do actually drink all of the cocktails I make! Personally I love a good coffee cocktail to start off the weekend and it feels slightly Fall-ish (lol). I made this early on in our Spirited Friends venture and many loved it, so I brought it back. Stoli Vanil Vodka, Disaronno, organic chai tea, spiced syrup with a splash of oat milk.
After eating the most delicious pear pie at our community garden day event this weekend, I was inspired to try and make it a margarita! It feels like Fall, it tastes sweet and gives all the seasonal margarita vibes for this time of year. Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, housemade sour, organic pear juice with a cinnamon sugar rim.
Spicy, apply, and slightly sweet, this one is a perfect sipper on a fall day. We love using apples and cider in our drinks, and this cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet apples and spicy ginger. Tower Vodka, Pataka fair trade ginger liqueur, spiced apple cider, and just a bit of housemade apple-cinnamon syrup will warm up your fall days and evenings!
And now for our "holding-on-to-summer" drink! First, there was the Bacardí Cocktail, a Daiquiri descendant that combines white rum, grenadine, and lime juice. The Bacardí Special Cocktail adds gin to the mix, and the botanicals of the gin make this much more interesting, but even more delicious! Bacardí White Rum (of course), Tanqueray Gin, grenadine, fresh lime juice, and a touch of sweet agave syrup.
Sometimes you just need a delicious classic cocktail, with a twist. I love a classic screwdriver and to make it feel a little bit more like Fall I've added just a splash of my housemade spiced honey syrup. Tito's Handmade Vodka, fresh squeezed orange juice (from the tree in my backyard!) and housemade spiced honey syrup.
I'm not sure if Aperol is a Fall vibe type of spirit, but it feels like it to me. And who are we kidding, it's been feeling a lot like Summer lately, so if I'm a little seasonally off on this, who cares?! It's delicious, and that's all that matters! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Aperol, Cointreau, and housemade sour.
Bring something festive to your Halloween get-together, or pour one of these while you greet trick-or-treaters. This is one bat that you'll be happy to meet! A little bit tropical, a little bit coffee; this is also the perfect drink for a tiki brunch. Bacardi white rum, Kahlúa, triple sec, and orange bitters. If you're feeling extra festive, mix this one up in the blender with a handful of ice for a refreshing and creamy slushy.
This sweet little potion is dangerously strong, while also bringing sunshine to your Halloween celebrations! It's a mysteriously colored concoction that hits the sweet spot between perfectly strong and straight up awesome. Plantation Grand Reserve gold rum, Malibu coconut rum, blue curaçao, and fresh pineapple juice topped with an amarena cherry will have you wishing you had more.
We are all a bit of both right?! Sometimes saint, sometimes sinner. Just like this cocktail, sweet and spicy (it's all about balance!). This may not seem seasonal for this time of year, but the spice from the rum and the cinnamon from the RumChata really does give it Fall vibes. Bacardi Mango Chili Rum, RumChata, organic coconut water, Coco Lopez with toasted coconut to garnish.
This margarita is just what you need to get you in the Halloween mood. It's dark, spooky but oh so good! I love the sweet blackberries, tart pomegranate and earthy sage, it's literally the best combination. And if you drink enough of them, you won't care how much candy your kids eat! Hornito's Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, organic pomegranate juice, housemade sour and blackberry/sage syrup.
First, a little bit of fizzy lifting drink for your holiday! Aperol Spritzes are such a great summery treat that we knew we could find a way to bring fall flavors into it. Pomegranate turned out to be the perfect avenue to transform this into a great choice for Thanksgiving toasting! Fresh pomegranate juice, the slightly bitter juicy citrus of Aperol, and the sparkle of prosecco will make you thankful indeed!
We're suckers for a good boozy coffee drink, and the Alpine Brew is definitely a new favorite around our house! With hints of dark chocolate, this is an iced coffee to start your day (or night) off right! It's cool and smooth with a wink at sweetness. Bulleit bourbon, Mr. Black coffee liqueur, Pasolivo Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup, and cold brew coffee. This one is perfect for dessert or brunch.
Happy Thanksgiving, friends! As many of you know, I'm a Summer girl. So this time of year isn't really my jam. But I've been REALLY trying to get in the spirit and make more seasonal feeling drinks, and i think this really does the trick. It's sweet, cinnamon spiced, festive and fall vibes all combined and I hope you love it as much as I do! Tito's Handmade Vodka, Disaronno, locally made apple cider, fresh squeezed orange juice, bitters with a cinnamon sugar rim.
This is an absolute fave and a oh so warming margarita. This warm, spiced margarita is a take on a classic and the perfect cocktail to share with family and friends. I switched up my housemade sour this week to give it more of a fall feeling using lime and orange vs lime and lemon and the subtle switch is so good. Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, spiced apple cider, organic cranberry juice, housemade sour with a gingered rim.
Whether this is how you start or end your holiday, this martini is what you want. And I'm not really your pumpkin lovin' type of girl, but I don't think I'd ever say no to this drink. It's just too good. Tito's Handmade Vodka, Kahlua, freshly brewed espresso, organic pumpkin puree, vanilla oatmilk creamer with pumpkin spice to sprinkle on top.
This is a new favorite, especially right now around the holidays! Bulleit Bourbon warms you up while the amaretto's notes of cherry and nuttiness make it rich and velvety. A splash of freshly-squeezed lemon juice brightens it up. Finished with Amarena cherries and Fee Brothers cherry bitters. European vacation vibes. Great as an apéritif or an after dinner digestif!
I love the original Bramble, but some just don't enjoy the herbal notes of gin as much as I do. That shouldn't deprive them of such a good drink though! Enter the Vodka Bramble. I swapped out the gin for Tito's Handmade Vodka, added housemade sour, and finally a splash of French Crème de Mûre. And since I like intense drinks, I pumped up the blackberry goodness with just a touch of blackberry puré and a couple of whole blackberries. This is one drink that will please anybody!
Happy December, friends! The weather is chilly, Christmas lights are up and the holiday cocktails are flowing! This is one of my seasonal faves and I hope its yours too! Casamigos Blanco Tequila infused with Jalapeño, Cointreau, organic cranberry juice, house sour with a sea salt rim.
I don't know about you, but spicy margs are at the top of my fave list. This perfectly spiced tequila will add just what you need to a margarita or even just some sparkling soda for a low cal option. I've used 3 peppers to give it the ultimate flavor and spice. Casamigos Blanco Tequila infused with Jalapeño, Serrano, and Habañero.
As you all no doubt know, Ponche Navideño is a Christmas-time spiced tropical fruit punch that's served warm with a shot of tequila in Mexico. We found a variation on it that we like that incorporates sweet vermouth and guava nectar, but we wanted to punch up the booziness a bit. Our version blends housemade guava syrup (with hibiscus and cinnamon), Noilly Prat Sweet Rouge Vermouth, Tito's Handmade Vodka, and fresh lemon juice for just the right amount of acid. It's sooooo good! You'll want a couple for Christmas afternoon!
Keep things festive and fun with this Spicy Sweet Holiday Storm Cocktail. Cranberry juice mixed with Tito's Handmade Vodka, Elderflower liqueur, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, bitters, and housemade spicy-sweet serrano honey. It’s a touch of sweet and a little bit of spice – the perfect “holiday storm.” If you like, you can rim your glasses with sugar to create a Christmas cocktail with even more sparkle. It’s spicy, sweet, and festive – ideal for these cold winter nights.
Coconut is getting a Christmas makeover for this Winter margarita, and I have no doubt you'll love the new vibes. Along with it's snow white look, it has a wintery flavor with a housemade rosemary syrup. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, house sour, organic unsweetened coconut milk, rosemary syrup with a sea salt rim.
On these cold nights, sometimes you just need something to warm you up, so grab a blanket, make a fire in the fireplace, and enjoy this delightful variation on the classic Manhattan. I think it's also great to sip after dinner with a good book! Bulleit Bourbon, juicy Aperol, and the warm spices and citrus of Amaro Nonino.
Even though Summer is my favorite season, Cutie (clementine) season is a close second. This margarita gives all the sweetness of those adorable little Cuties, with a touch of coconut creme to take it to another level of deliciousness. Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, fresh squeezed clementine juice, housemade sour, organic coconut creme with a coconut sugar rim.
This drink is a ray of sunshine on a cloudy day! Its a citrus and herb delight that makes me feel happy just like a summer day does. Bombay Sapphire Gin, fresh lemon juice from our tree, housemade simple syrup, lavender bitters, and Peychaud's bitters.
It wouldn't be Winter without a tiki drink LOL. But we all know I'll come up with some way to incorporate tiki vibes into whatever weather and season we may be in. Since citrus is best in Winter this cocktail doesn't need much else to sweeten it up. Flor de Caña 4 year white rum, falnerum, fresh squeezed tangerine juice, pineapple, lime and tiki bitters.
You're so sweet! This set of shots is the perfect start to any evening. Red velvet cake is everything good; now you have it all here in all in one drinkable version! I combined the complexity of Frangelico with the creaminess of RumChata and added a little fruit kick of Grenadine at the end. It tastes just like that naughty taste of batter right before you start cooking. A set of 4 2oz shots to get things going will set the scene.
Ever meet a French Blonde? Ever want to be one? Cool sophistication awaits. Grapefruit is shining right now, so let's give it center stage! This one's a mix of St. Germain elderflower liqueur, Bombay Sapphire dry Gin, fresh grapefruit juice, and the beautiful French complexity of Lillet Blanc (flavors of honey, candied orange peel, dandelions, and more!). Let's start off sweet and light and see where things go...
The herbal vibes are enough to get things interesting then the luxury of taste kicks in to bring a whole extra level of goodness! Here's a story where opposites really DO attract. This one's special: Yellow Chartreuse (everything boozy and herbal in one extravagant liqueur) meets the bite and freshness of Aperol and a freshly squeezed lime. It's unconventional, yet classic, this is one you've gotta try!
Some have said vodka makes them mean, but I say it makes you honest LOL. And since it's almost Valentine's Day, you might be telling someone you love them after having a few of these beautifully delicious cocktails. Spicy Tamarind Vodka, housemade tamarindo syrup, fresh lime juice, organic guava with a Tajin rim (the Tajin rim is a must do, its sooo good!)
Margaritas are perfect for any holiday or get together! They are meant to shared with lovers and friends! The color of this margarita is so pretty and just perfect for Valentine's Day (it's also delicious ... obviously haha) Casamigo's Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, organic strawberry puree, housemade jamaica syrup, fresh lime juice with a Himalayan pink salt rim.
Are you ready for it? ... okay it's a Taylor Swift reference but I'm definitely rooting for the 49ers! Truth be told I am not a Bloody Mary fan, and I typically only make drinks that I enjoy. I was never into the tomato juice thing and it just wan't appealing, until I was forced to try one by my bestie while we were at Great Wolf Lodge (surprisingly good drinks there which makes the whole indoor waterpark/screaming kids thing a lot less painful LOL). I spent an afternoon with legit Bloody Mary lovers to make sure I got this exactly right, so rest assure it's so good (I even like this one!) Enjoy this while getting ready to watch the Super Bowl, having brunch or nursing a hangover. Its a multi purpose cocktail haha! Tito's Handmade Vodka, handcrafted Bloody Mary mix (perfect level of spice!) with a celery salt and kosher salt rim.
Get things started with this oh-so-delicious shot! I'm not normally a shot person, but I definitely make an exception for these. The creaminess of Bailey's Irish Cream and the nuttiness of Frangelico are a match made in heaven and will get your St. Paddy's celebrations started on the right foot! (Four 2-ounce shots)
Here’s a classic cocktail that’s tangy and light: not heavy and boozy like many whiskey cocktails. The Whiskey Smash dates back to at least the 1880s, and is a prefect citrusy and minty cocktail to enjoy with friends. Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey, fresh lemon juice, and housemade mint syrup.
The Southside is a sweet little number that is minty, fresh, and botanical, made with lemon, lime, and gin. It's soooo refreshing and definitely leaves you thinking, "Who drank my cocktail? I want another one!" Bombay Sapphire gin, fresh lemon and lime juices, and housemade mint syrup.
My backyard looks like it's been raining oranges! I knew I wanted to take advantage of them this week since I have soooo many! I love a good Lemon Drop, its one of my go to cocktails at home. I figured I would make a spin off and use fresh oranges to create the Orange Drop, and it definitely doesn't disappoint. This is a martini, but if you are more of a cocktail type lover you can always shake, pour over ice and top with soda if you prefer. Absolut Mandarin, Caravella Orangecello, house sour, fresh squeezed orange juice and a few drops of orange bitters.
It's citrus season! Meyer lemons just stacked in the kitchen waiting to be juiced! This margarita is so refreshing and delicious! All of the flavors are so good, nothing too strong or overpowering (well obviously it's strong since I made it, but you know what I mean)! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, Caravella Limoncello, housemade Meyer lemon sour with a sea salt and lemon zest rim.
A fruity little shot perfect for Leprechauns! These are so delicious and sweet, but not so sweet you have that tinge of I'm-going-to-regret-this-in-the-morning flavor. It's basically what a leprechaun would drink on a tropical island LOL. Malibu Coconut Rum, Midori and organic pineapple juice. (Four 2-ounce shots)
You guys didn't think I wasn't going to hand you the most perfectly handcrafted Easter cocktail did you?! Come on, I wouldn't let you down like that! I think we all know by now that my love for tiki drinks runs deep, and this upgraded Easter version is no different. It's full of Summer vibes with some Spring flavor, making it perfect for the Easter weekend! Appleton Estate Signature Rum, fresh squeezed pineapple, orange and carrot juice, coconut cream with a dash of nutmeg on top.
Sours (the cocktails, not the beers--though those are good too!) are the perfect palate for experimentation: a base spirit, the acidic hit of fresh lemon and/or lime juice, and a sweetener. So many possibilities to play around! On my most recent trip to Ikea, I got some lingonberry juice, and I've been looking for a way to incorporate its sweet-tart flavor into a drink for you guys. After extensive experimentation with different base-spirits and acids (a hard job, but I got through it!), aged Barbados rum and fresh lime juice was the clear winner, perfectly complimenting the Lingonberry. Plantation Grande Reserve 5 Year Rum, fresh lime juice, and lingonberry juice.
I just love making fun new syrups for drinks! It's such a great way to add new and interesting flavors to classic cocktails. For this one, I've taken that idea and run with it. With the venerable simplicity of bourbon, mint and sweetener, the Mint Julep is just begging to be tweaked! I first made a syrup with fresh mint that recreated the bright flavors of the original. And what goes great with mint? The strawberries that are just coming into season! So I tried a strawberry-mint syrup and it was even better! But I wanted to see if I could crank up the flavor experience even more, and then it hit me: everybody loves spicy cocktails, so out came the heat of fresh serrano peppers for a second syrup. At last, a cocktail that honors the original, but adds the sweetness of strawberries and the spice of serranos for a excellent Easter libation. Bulleit Bourbon, housemade strawberry-mint syrup, and housemade serrano syrup.
Spring is here ... finally! We've had some amazingly sunny days (with annoying rain in between) to help get us excited for warmer days to come! Citrus is still in season and as sweet as ever! I used the juices from this margarita to add to my mimosa this weekend and it's sooo good. And while I do love a mimosa on Easter, sometimes when you have a lot of family over you may need something stronger. Welcome, tequila LOL! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, fresh squeezed grapefruit and tangerines, house sour, with a sea salt rim.
The Greyhound cocktail is an undeniable classic that's just begging to be played with. Please let us introduce you to the Dalmatian. We took the base of Tito's Handmade Vodka and fresh grapefruit juice and added a housemade black pepper syrup. This coral-pink drink looks demure, but it packs a balanced punch! Both bitter and sweet, earthy and deep, with a slow lingering burn from the vodka and pepper, it'll make you look at the glass in surprise after your first sip!
Hot Honey isn't a new obsession, but it's gone next level at my house. My fam has started adding it to almost everything meal I make (which could be a testament to my cooking haha). Regardless, I LOVE it in cocktails. I've done a traditional Hot Honey Marg before, but I canned some peaches that my in laws picked straight from the trees in their yard and added them and OMG it's so good! Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, organic peaches, Mike's Hot Honey with a Tajin rim.
With the Kentucky Derby on Saturday, we couldn't resist offering the signature drink of the Run for the Roses. Juleps have been a favorite sipper around our house lately-it's just such a refreshing springtime treat! Bulleit bourbon, housemade mint syrup made with fresh mint, and fresh lemon juice. Grab your most festive hat and a glass of crushed ice to pour this over while you cheer on your pick to win.
I'm OBSESSED with National Days. It doesn't really matter it is, I want to celebrate it. It was recently National Pineapple Upside Down Cake Day, which happens to be my fave cake. So naturally, I needed to make a cocktail to celebrate. This is such a delicious drink, it's what my husband calls a "creeper". So buyer beware, it's not a piece of cake LOL. Stoli Crushed Pineapple Vodka, Malibu Coconut Rum, Cointreau, organic pineapple juice, Coco Lopez and a splash of grenadine.
Lavender is one of my favorite spring/summer scents. Its heady scent is everywhere right now, so I wanted to offer a drink that showcases it! This cocktail is what I imagine a margarita's floral, herbal, sassy sister to be like! It's a smooth blend of Espalòn Blanco tequila, housemade honey syrup, fresh lemon juice, and a hint of floral from Scrappy's lavender bitters. Parfait!
I love rum drinks; they remind me of summer on a warm beach. This little number takes me away to a swim-up bar in the Caribbean, where you pay with the wet dollars you swam in with! Plantation Grande Reserve rum, Bacardi White rum, raw local wildflower honey, and freshly squeezed lime and grapefruit juices are all you need to feel that warm summer breeze on your face.
This gorgeous spiked tropical green juice made with fresh pineapple, mint, cilantro, lime juice, and blanco tequila makes Friday so much sweeter. This refreshing green margarita is such a fun way to enjoy your greens! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, slightly herby, and tart, and is a perfect start to Summer. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, green juice mix (pineapple, cilantro, jalapeño, mint, lime) house sour and a sea salt rim.
This drink swept me away with its color as a nod to the beauty of cherry blossoms and their intoxicating scents. Sweet and sassy, this is the perfect toast to relaxing on your first summer nights. It is a surprising mix of Sake, Maraschino Cherry Liqueur, Orange Liqueur, and Bombay Sapphire Gin garnished with an Amarena cherry just for fun. It is light, strong, and full of summer sweetness.
Imagine: all the awesomeness of a Paloma, but make it tropical! This is a spicy and tropical twist on one of my go-to drinks for summer: the classic Paloma. I recently discovered Ancho Reyes Verde (a sweet, spicy, and herbaceous poblano chili liqueur), and I think the possibilities may be endless! This drink combines that hint of heat with a housemade guava cordial, Espolòn tequila blanco, the double-hit of citrus from fresh grapefruit and limes juices, and then cools it to island perfection with coconut water. It's the ideal summer refreshment!
This is a version of my Tiki Margarita, so it's kind of a throwback. Tiki drinks and margaritas are definitely my jam so obviously I've found a way to mix the two and it's even better than I imagined. I switched up the traditional blend of POG (passion/orange/guava) and blended pineapple/orange/guava to make it a little lighter. It's the perfect blend of Mai Tai vibes with a free spirited margarita feel. Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, housemade POG, fresh lime with a sea salt/turbinado sugar rim.
If watermelon isn't the flavor of Summer, then I don't know what is. Cucumber is also pretty high on my list of refreshing cocktail flavors, so blending them felt like a no brainer. The combination of the two creates the most refreshing, sweet and light little cocktail that is almost too easy to drink ;) Effen Cucumber Vodka, freshly juiced watermelon, housemade watermelon syrup and fresh lime.
There are very few things that are more summer vibes than coconut. If I could add it to every cocktail I absolutely would, thats how much I love it. This margarita is on repeat in my house all summer long. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, housemade sour, coconut milk and coconut cream with a sea salt and shredded coconut rim.
I love tiki drinks in the summer, and this drink is no exception! We got some macadamia nut liqueur awhile ago, and I've been wanting to find a good combination for it. I started with the light and refreshing combination of Tito's Handmade vodka, fresh lime juice, and housemade simple syrup. Delicious, but I wanted to give it a tropical spin, so I added coconut water, pineapple liqueur, Kahana Royale Macadamia Nut liqueur, and a touch of Pataka ginger liqueur for a spicy twist. Aloha! (There's a reason it means hello AND love...and if you have too many of these it can also mean goodbye...or goodnight! ;) Guaranteed to take you away to the tropical breezes of Lanai.
Welcome to the start of summer! I'm helping you start it off right with this gorgeous cocktail that will have you feeling perfectly crisp by the pool in no time ;) I've forgotten to reapply the sunscreen a few too many times after enjoying this one so make sure you're prepared! House infused pineapple Tito's Handmade Vodka, Blue Curacao, organic pineapple juice and freshly squeezed orange juice.
What's sexy, sassy, super fun, and perfect for a summer night? Well, also Harry Styles, but this drink is a lot more accessible! (Here's hoping he won't mind that we stole his song to name this drink lol.) Fresh watermelon, blended down into juice and then concentrated down to a gorgeous syrup is the star of this show. I paired it with the clean vibes of Espolon Tequila Blanco, a squeeze of lemon from our tree, and a hint of simple syrup to enhance that summer sweetness. Cheers!
Listen, we've all been there. Here's a tiki-light drink to get you through those messed up decisions. Or to help you make even more of them. If you want, you can also put it in a blender with some ice, pulse it a few times, and then stick a straw into that slushy-boozy goodness. Bacardi white rum, Aperol, fresh pineapple and lime juices, simple syrup, and orange bitters.
I remember drinking fruit punch as a kid growing up, and this drink is an adult take on that. Licor 43 (a new favorite in my house) gives the fruit flavors a pleasant vanilla kick, and while I originally tried orange juice, fresh, in-season peach juice gives it a lovely summertime boost. One of my favorite parts of this drink is how the flavors in each sip develop progressively in your mouth rather than all at once; delicious! Liberté Pinot Noir, Licor 43, Christian Brothers Brandy, fresh peach and lemon juices, and Angostura bitters.
This is it! The summeriest week of the year! If you aren’t already knee deep in barbecue, ice cream cones and watermelon, it’s time! This is a seriously beachy cocktail ~ perfect for spending the holiday in the sand or on the water. House infused ginger infused Flor de Cana white rum, organic pineapple juice, ginger liqueur, and lime.
Oh Cabana boy! You'll be calling for another one of these, for sure! Imagine a spiced colada: Coconut water and fresh pineapple juice keep this drink tasting light and refreshing, while still allowing the Espolòn Tequila Blanco to shine through. A dash of cinnamon may seem like an unusual choice, but when combined with the other ingredients and a touch of simple syrup, it creates a nuanced, creamy flavor.
This creamy, dreamy creamsicle margarita is the perfect cocktail for a summer time treat. If only there were ice cream trucks that sold margaritas too! We'd all be running down the street chasing that truck haha! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, fresh squeezed orange juice, house sour, coconut water, coconut milk with a toasted coconut/lime zest rim.
Peachy, breezy, easy. This drink is an homage to my favorite fruit: peaches! Fresh peach juice goes oh-so-well with Bulleit Bourbon, and a splash of vodka makes this drink equally subtle and strong! I rounded it out with a bit of simple syrup and some Angostura bitters for complexity. This is one easy-drinking delight!
The perfect combination of sweet and spicy. Fresh sweet pineapple with spicy jalapeño, it's like pineapple salsa in cocktail form LOL. It's everything you wanted to cool off on a hot summer night. Tito's Handmade Vodka infused with fresh pineapple, muddled pineapple, organic pineapple juice, lime, and housemade jalapeño syrup.
Many of you know I went to college in Hawaii and obviously luau’s were a weekly thing there. But it was after the luau when things started to get wild and that was my sweet spot lol. This is a cocktail based on my wild college days with a more sophisticated approach haha! Appleton Jamaican rum, plantation pineapple rum, organic pineapple rum, lime juice and a splash of agave.
You know I love Palomas. They are such a great summer drink: refreshing, tasty, and oh-so-delicious. You also know I really love when things get spicy, so naturally I figured out a way to combine the two! I started with Hornitos Reposado tequila, fresh red grapefruit juice, triple-sec, and a splash of simple syrup, and added just enough Cholula to heat it up without overwhelming the other flavors. A perfect summer drink to pair with snacks by the pool, it's best friends with nachos for dinner, and the perfect thing to serve to the friends that have spontaneously gathered on a slow afternoon!
If porch sitting was an Olympic sport, we'd be looking for our medals this summer! This is the one that you'd likely find in Kirk's hand, and then find me stealing sips of it throughout the evening-it's tropical and summery, with a strong, silent side. Bulleit bourbon and fresh pineapple juice are a shockingly good combination, and Licor 43 and a dash of bitters balance the sweetness and acidity of the pineapple. Just a pinch of cinnamon provides an unexpected elevation. Sip this one outside with friends (or a great book!) on a warm evening.
A fun and sassy remix of some of our favorite flavors! This is the drink for when you want a more interesting Manhattan. Cynar and Pataka ginger liqueur add a sweet bitterness and peppery notes that take everything up a notch when added to the spicy and savory notes of Rittenhouse Rye, and then it is all balanced by a splash of sweet vermouth to make a warm and bold drink that's equally tasty neat or with ice.
Summer is all about savoring the moments. This vibrant drink combines the flavors of fresh pineapple juice and the tropical vibes of coconut rum with a splash of homemade grenadine. Perfect for summer gatherings or a relaxing evening. Smooth and sweet with quality ingredients, you're sure to stop and enjoy any sunset with this one in your hand!
Well the summer is over, maybe not the season but the enjoyable part of it when we don't have to go to work. But the weather is still great, the sun still sets late and tiki drinks are still flowing ;) I've done a Mai Tai here before, but sometimes a good throwback is exactly what we need. Flor de Caña 4 year rum, Cointreau, orgeat, housemade POG, lime juice and a dark rum float on the side so you can add it after shaking and pouring your cocktail.
I think I'm getting close to making every type of margarita known to man here, but again I'm throwing it back to tradition. Reinventing the wheel can be exhausting and doesn't always taste better LOL! Pretty much every time we go out I'm on the hunt for a good spicy margarita. I love trying all the different and creative ways people make them, but this is my favorite recipe to make at home and I know you'll love it too! Jalapeño infused Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, and house sour with a Tajin / sea salt rim.
Want a complex drink that smoothly bridges summer and fall? This is the answer to what you'll be serving for many weeks to come! It's sweet (Noilly Prat Sweet Vermouth), it's slightly sour (fresh lime juice), it's pleasantly bitter (Aperol), and it's fruity (Bonne Maman raspberry preserves). It's honestly so good and complicated that it's hard to describe! Trust me, this one's a keeper.
It’s still summer! We have a couple of weeks left and I’m going to take full advantage to the warm weather and perfect seasonal melon. Cantaloupe is definitely one of my families favorite melons and usually doesn’t last long around here. So when I was throwing it through the juicer I got a lot of disapproving looks haha! This super fresh and summery sweet cocktail will keep you refreshed and loving these last weeks of summer. House infused basil Tito’s Handmade Vodka, housemade cantaloupe juice and a splash organic lemon juice.
At this point I can’t remember if I’ve made a mango margarita here yet, which is either due to having made endless types of margaritas or because I just drank two of these and my brain is foggy lol. Either way, they are so good and definitely worth making again! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, fresh mango purée, house sour with a Tajin rim.
A tiki drink, but make it craft. Fruity and sweet, but a little more sophisticated, largely thanks to the addition of ginger beer, which cuts nicely through the heavier juices and rum. A healthy pour of Bacardi white rum blends with fresh orange and pineapple juices, plus the unexpected ginger beer that adds depth, while the maraschino liqueur elevates the idea of a cherry on top. A splash of housemade grenadine gives it a bit of tart sweetness. Serve with or without a cocktail umbrella, as your mood suits.
Yep, you read it here first. Breakfast margaritas are a thing and we’ve got them here! Is it ever too early for a margarita?! NOPE! The orange marmalade add the perfect amount of sweetness and gives it the best brunch vibe. Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, housemade sour and homemade orange marmalade with a smoked citrus salt rim.
A refreshing splash of summer sunshine! Between the fruity sweetness of the berries and the bright, citrusy flavor, the rum tends to fade to the background, making these surprisingly drinkable despite the strength. Bacardi rum, housemade blueberry-lemon syrup, and fresh lemon juice from our tree.
Apparently it fall, but it’s also 90 degrees. So we are sticking with summer vibes for as long as possible. This cocktail is all the sweet summer vibes with an easing into fall feel. Tito’s Handmade Vodka, St Germain Elderflower, peach schnapps, fresh peach purée, lemon juice and a housemade thyme syrup.
Most Tropical Itch recipes call for passionfruit, pineapple, and lemon, but we wanted to see if we could dial back the confusion a bit and focus on one of our favorite fruits: mango. We also felt that the dark and 151-proof rums just overwhelmed everything else, so we stuck with white rum; perfect! Fresh mango juice, Bacardi white rum, Bulleit bourbon (for depth...trust me it works), coconut water, triple sec, just a splash of simple syrup, and a dash of bitters.
This oddly named tipple delivers bold flavor and color, both of which come courtesy of the Aperol, a favorite in our house. We love drinks that balance bitter and refreshing flavors, which makes this drink a distant relative of the Aperol Spritz, though this one packs more of a punch (a punch that is largely masked by the floral notes of elderflower. Tito's Handmade Vodka, elderflower liqueur, Aperol, fresh lemon juice, and just a bit of simple syrup.
Brunch and mimosas rank very high on my list of favorite things, a good coffee cocktail comes up pretty close. I haven’t made a coffee cocktail for a while, so it was fun getting creative with my fave caffeine kick. Licor 43 is a new fave with its vanilla, cinnamon and maple flavor, it levels up any cup of coffee. Cold Brew Coffee, Appleton Estate Rum, Licor 43, coconut horchata with cinnamon sugar to sprinkle on top.
My husband and I went to a wedding recently and all they served was Gran Malo. We’d never heard of it but seeing over a hundred people drinking it like water we knew we had to try it, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. It’s a sweet but spicy tamarind tequila liquor. Apparently we aren’t the only ones loving right now, because it’s hard to find and you can only purchase two at a time! While it was good on its own, I preferred it as an add on to an already delicious classic margarita. Casamigos Blano Tequila, Gran Malo, Cointreau, house sour with a Tajin Rim.
It's Halloween, so I had to do a spooky drink, and what could be spookier than Beetlejuice? Much like the man himself, it tries to be sweet, but can smack you around with tartness. Tito's Handmade Vodka, sour apple schnapps, Midori, and fresh lime juice. You'll want a couple of these, but don't say its name three times!
Sweet and a little spicy. Whether that's your Halloween costume this year or the best way to describe your personality, the Pepperberry is here for you. A delicious, unexpected, frightfully good combination of vodka, Kahlúa, black pepper, and quality strawberry jam. The black pepper adds pops of pleasant heat that are tamed by the overall sweetness of the drink. This drink bridges summer to fall in the most delicious of ways, and would be equally at home as an evening sipper or a brunch treat. Tito's Handmade Vodka, Kahlúa, Bonne Maman strawberry jam, and freshly ground pepper.
It’s almost Halloween and the weather is finally cooling down. I love this margarita because it’s not only delicious but it’s so pretty. Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau blackberry liqueur, house sour, blackberry syrup with a black sugar rum.
You’re never too old for Jell-O shots! These fun and festive shots are a great way to get your party started! They are so delicious and so dangerous lol! Tito’s Handmade Vodka, sour apple liqueur and obviously Jello-O!
Frangelico is one of the great liqueurs, rich in delicious hazelnut flavors. This drink is what you might think of as a creamier, less brooding Espresso Martini. Frangelico gives vodka creamy depth and richness making it warming rather than heavy. Frangelico, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Noilly Prat Extra Dry vermouth, agave syrup and bitters. Better than your morning coffee!
What comes to mind when you hear the word "Jägermeister?" If you're like me, fuzzy memories of college and maybe a promise to never do that again. But wait a minute; even though it's gotten a bad reputation for over-indulgence from the college set, that doesn't mean that it can't be redeemed! This little tiki-adjacent drink is part tropics, part Jägermeister, but more refined and adult than either. Jägermeister, Koloa Kaua'i coconut rum, Bacardi Superior white rum, fresh pineapple and lime juices, and simple syrup. Treat your tastebuds to a more sophisticated experience that you won't regret!
Truth be told … I HATE apple stuff. I hate apple juice, apple cider, apple jelly. I hate it all. BUT I do love this drink. My mom gave us this Apple Pie liqueur long ago and we finally put it to use and it’s so good! It’s sweet, tart with just enough apple and cinnamon to make it delicious. Stoli Vanil Vodka, Cutlers Apple Pie Liqueur, Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey (calm down you won’t even know it’s there LOL) and housemade sour.
Hello Fall it’s me, Summer. This refreshing summery type marg with a hint of cinnamon will help you feel like it’s Fall without being fully committed lol. That’s how I live my life. Enjoying each season while holding to whatever parts of Summer I can. Casamigos Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, house sour, organic pineapple juice, housemade cinnamon syrup with a cinnamon/sea salt rim.
Let’s talk about this for a second. This cocktail is on a regular rotation at my house. Everyone who comes over has one (and more often then not stumbles or Ubers home lol). I haven’t ever put it on my menu because it’s simple yet special. I don’t want to completely divulge our recipe but I am assure you is delicious and super fresh! Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Caracalla Limoncello, organic Meyer lemons, and secret ingredient ;)
I love thanksgiving morning and all the prep for the delicious dinner. I love hanging out with my family, watching the parade and football. Mimosas are a must for the morning prep and this one is my go to. It’s a little extra boozy (which women’s of need while entertaining family lol) and makes all the kitchen prep less stressful. Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, organic pear nectar, fall spiced syrup with a mini bottle of Prosecco for you to pour on top.
Well it’s December, it’s cold and my fave way to warm up is still tequila! I made this one a couple years ago, and I still love it. It’s got all the holiday vibes and puts you in the perfect mood (especially if you’re like me and a little tequila puts you in the mood to shop)! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, house sour, organic cranberry juice, fresh squeezed orange juice with a sea salt rim.
I love apple flavors in the fall, but what to do with all of those peels? Make apple peel bourbon, of course! I soaked fresh apple peels in Bulleit Bourbon for a couple weeks, and the result is so good! The complexity of bourbon with just enough sweet fall flavors from the apple. Kirk likes drinking this straight, but I enjoy my bourbon more in mixed drinks, so I added some citrus flavors with triple sec and fresh lemon juice, and bumped up the complexity with Angostura and orange bitters. That was lovely, but I also love how ginger and and apple go together so well, so I topped it of with a couple of splashes of Fever Tree ginger beer; perfect! you'll get your own can of ginger beer to mix in to your taste (or maybe not?!). Think a cozy night by the fire with a book; this drink is all you need to complete the picture!
I love coffee, and I love coffee drinks; this one is soooo good! It's creamy, nutty, and full of great coffee flavor. It called for black coffee, but I couldn't resist subbing in Mr. Black's Coffee liqueur, and I'm glad I did. Frangelico hazelnut liqueur, Bailey's Irish Cream, Mr. Black's Coffee liqueur, and creamy half-and-half. This one would be perfect for sipping after dinner, or for opening presents on Christmas!
I think most of you know by now that this isn’t my fave season. I’m a sunny and warm kind of girl, so when it’s cold and gray outside you’ll find me inside creating fun new drinks for y’all! I’m notorious for buying berries and not eating them so I end up making syrups. Lately my kids have been putting those syrups on pancakes but I managed to keep some for this super yummy cocktail! It’s sweet and refreshing and puts you (and definitely me) in the best mood! Tito’s Handmade Vodka, house made limeade and blueberry syrup.
I love grapefruit, especially this time of year when they are so much sweeter and juicier! This is one of my seasonal favorites and on repeat in my house this time of year. It’s sweet, spicy and full of fresh citrus! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, fresh squeezed grapefruit, house made sour, a squeeze of Mike’s Hot Honey with a Tajin rim.
One of my favorite holiday memories is one of sipping hot mulled wine in our friends' community-owned village pub in South Stoke, England. It was a scene out of a movie—friends and neighbors gathered for a drink near a huge hearth with kids and dogs happily spilling about. Tea was a constant and everywhere we went, mulled wine was on offer to cut the winter chill. That's where this drink comes in! Combining my love of tea and the fortifying embrace of mulled wine, I made a version that bringing in some citrus brightness as well. Warmly spiced tea, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a splash of simple syrup get a warm hug from the orange of Grand Marnier and the smoothness of vanilla vodka. To enjoy: warm slowly and savor the moment!
This year started off slowly for our family with lots of sickness in the house. All I could do was embrace the calmer pace and cozy atmosphere as we all got better. This modern classic drink is just what the doctor ordered to brighten things up. Smooth and soothing, you'll be feeling good in no time! If you haven't tried one of these yet, now's your chance to experience the perfectly balanced spice of fresh ginger, the healthy aspects of local honey combined to create a drink that's big on flavor. Monkey Shoulder blended scotch combines with the depth and sweetness of our rich, housemade honey-ginger syrup and the brightness of a splash of fresh lemon juice. Finished with just a splash of Highland Park 12 year single malt scotch for a hint of smokiness.
This is a true combination of both winter citrus and my fave summer flavor. I love finding ways to use blood oranges since they aren’t in season for very long. This super fresh and sweet margarita is just what you need warm you up from the inside out and remind you that summer is only 138 days away (but who’s counting?)! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, fresh squeezed blood oranges, house made sour and coconut cream.
It’s Super Bowl time! And while I’m not a huge football fan, I will definitely be watching for all of the Taylor Swift sightings! In support of my girl Taylor I figured I’d make her fave cocktail! Gin isn’t my favorite so I switched this up a little and used vodka instead (Christen’s version ). Tito’s Handmade Vodka, St Germain Elderflower, fresh squeezed grapefruit, Lillet Blanc and lemon bitters.
Palomas are one of the favorite drinks around my house, and this time of year always has me wishing for warm, beach weather, so this tropical spin on a Paloma is a natural fit right now! Hornitos Reposado tequila, fresh grapefruit and lime juices, and touch of fresh pineapple juice to make it tropical, plus we're giving you a Squirt to add to taste. It'll make you feel like you're back on the beach!
No matter who you're rooting for this weekend (or even if you're not rooting for anybody), this drink is a winner! It's an unlikely combination that turns out to be sooooo good! May I present an incredible combination of novelty, simplicity, and deliciousness: both refreshing and deeply comforting. Hornitos Reposado tequila, Cynar, the bright tartness of fresh lemon juice, and the sweet depth of pure maple syrup.
Put an adult spin on the traditional Valentine's Day chocolates! This drink will make you fall in love all over again. It tastes like a super-delightful adults-only milkshake, and is a decadent twist on a chocolate martini that you won't want to miss! Bailey's Irish Cream, Tito's Handmade vodka, crème de cacao, and Breyer's Chocolate Ice Cream. Sooooo good!
Just like any good relationship, it should be equally sweet and spicy. This margarita is exactly that and it’s a must drink for your Valentine celebration! Casamigos Blanco Tequila infused with jalapeño, Cointreau, house sour and housemade raspberry syrup.
So truth be told, once Christmas is over I’m basically counting down until Summer. This cocktail will remind you that Spring is almost here which means Summer is right around the corner. Bacardi Mango Chili Rum, mango nectar and fresh lime juice.
Another week, another margarita. Oranges and Mandarins are sooo sweet right now it would be a margarita crime to not take advantage of them, so this week you’re in luck! This super fresh and naturally sweet marg is exactly how we make our way into Spring. Espolon Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, house sour, fresh squeezed mandarin orange juice with a sea salt rim.
Sometimes I just need something light and delicious, like Willy Wonka's fizzy lifting drinks! This adult riff on pink lemonade is a beautifully vibrant cocktail that is a perfect mixture of sweet, tangy, and refreshing. The cranberry juice adds a bitter, tangy flavor that is balanced by the Malibu, which has hints of coconut and pineapple, and the sprite adds the right amount of fizz with a splash of lime juice for a cocktail that will transcend you out of the stress of your day-to-day and into a world of bliss. Tito's Handcrafted Vodka, Malibu coconut rum, fresh cranberry and lime juices, and Sprite to add to taste.
With the time change coming this weekend, I'm going to probably need even more coffee than I normally do. Sometimes I just need to jazz up my coffee, and this drink is one of my favorite ways to do that! Kahlúa, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Grand Marnier, and a dash of orange bitters will wake you right up! This tasty drink is great any time of day, but maybe especially as you ease into Springing forward.
Ok, let me tell you. We've got 3 kids in 2 shows over the next 3 weeks, so music and dancing (and driving to rehearsal lol) is a big part of life right now. It's fun and kinda crazy, and at the end of the day I'm ready to unwind with a beverage! This riff on a classic lemon drop will enchant you—I took fresh lavender and lemons from our yard and have been infusing their freshness in Tito's Handmade Vodka for weeks now (ever since the fist blooms appeared!) The result? A tangy, ever-so-slightly floral version of Tito's. A splash of simple syrup brings up the sweetness and this drink is perfection. What, like it's hard? ;)
Can’t you just feel Spring and Summer creeping up on us ?! This weeks cocktails are really going to get you in the mood for the warm weather approaching! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, house sour, organic pineapple juice and coconut cream.
This beauty is straight from the magical land of Oz! The subtle pink (not red, sorry Dorothy) comes from a fun new housemade syrup I was experimenting with: strawberry rose. Fresh strawberries add color and sweetness while a splash of rose water gives a springtime freshness and complexity that you sense, rather than taste. I balanced that with the zing of fresh-squeezed limes and a heavy pour of Santiago Queirolo Acholado Pisco. This is a strawberry pisco sour that will make all your dreams in technicolor!
It’s not quite Spring but we’re going to drink like it is haha! This super bright and citrusy cocktail will instantly put you in a great mood (the vodka might have something to do with that too LOL). Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Cointreau, house made mandarin lemonade and rosemary syrup.
Finally! Spring Break is here!! I’m ready to feel the sun on my face and enjoy the countdown to Summer. This margarita is perfect for Spring (or anytime really)! Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Cointreau, house sour, organic dragon fruit and guava nectar.
We love strawberries in our house, and I'm so excited that they are coming back into season! What better way to welcome them back than by making a delicious berry-based cocktail? I started with fresh Driscoll's strawberries and combined them with honey in a super yummy syrup. That and some Smirnoff Raspberry vodka forms a boozy-berry backbone for the drink. I then added some Licor 43's notes of vanilla, citrus and aromatic herbs and spices. Solerno blood orange liqueur lends a zesty, sweet orange note, and a heavy pour of fresh lemon juice tamps down the sweetness while amplifying the citrus. This will blow you away!
The Irish Breakfast isn’t what it sounds like. It’s not breakfast, to start, and it has nothing to do with the famous tea. Given the cultural stereotypes of the Irish in general and St. Patrick’s Day in particular, I suspect the most frequent use of the term “Irish Breakfast” is applied ironically to a pint of Guinness before noon. But the Irish Breakfast we’re talking about today is an unusually bright and refreshing cocktail with a pleasant, juicy orange punch. Tullimore D.E.W. Irish whiskey, Grand Marnier, fresh lemon juice, Bonne Maman orange marmalade, and just a touch of simple syrup. It's amazing at any time of day!
Summer is right around the corner and the tiki drinks aren’t far behind. I love the tropical vibe this cocktail brings and it’s way too easy to have one (or 5 lol) too many. Flor de Caña 4 year rum, Orgeat, fresh squeezed Cara Cara juice, organic pineapple juice, lime juice, tiki bitters and coconut cream.
Refreshing is the name of the game as we get into spring, and while I love a good Mint Julep, I also wanted to bring in some tropical vibes! I started with Bacardi white rum and added some housemade syrup made with the mint that is trying to take over part of my backyard. Next was just enough fresh lemon juice (from the lemon tree also in the backyard) to balance out the sweetness, and added a splash of club soda for a little zing. It's light, refreshing, and perfect for a sunny day!
Strawberries are one of my favorite fruits, so I'm sooooo excited that they're coming back into season, and I wanted to find an interesting way to feature and complement their deliciousness! I've been a big Aperol fan for a long time, so I thought why not put the two together? I infused Aperol with fresh strawberries, and the result is AMAZING! I balanced it with the herbal notes of just enough Bombay Sapphire gin, which got close to what I was looking for. One of Kirk's new favorites is Stiegl-Radler grapefruit, which is a mixture of German lager and grapefruit juice (similar to a shandy), and it's perfect to give this an extra punch of fruit and a bit of fizz. You'll want a couple of these as the weather warms up!
Warmer weather is here and Summer is so close! This summer vibes cocktail will have you ready and in the mood. Fresh lemonade and sweet strawberries combined with vodka is always a perfect combination. Tito’s Hamdcrafted Vodka, fresh squeezed lemonade and housemade strawberry syrup.
Margaritas and Paloma’s are obviously a household fave. We are constantly making some version of one or the other on repeat. I love a little spice in mine and this one has just the right amount. Casamigos Blanco Tequila infused with jalapeño, Cointreau, fresh squeezed grapefruit and house sour with a Tajin rim.
Sweet and spicy lovers-listen up! I recently came across a recipe for a mezcal-based drink called "El Pepe." We're not big mezcal fans, but the rest of the flavors were intriguing, so I wanted to rework it with tequila. We started with Hornitos Reposado tequila that we infused with serrano peppers for a spicy kick, and then added Dolin Génépy, an herbal liqueur somewhere between Green Chartreuse and Absinthe. I then added the acid of fresh lemon juice, a splash of simple syrup for sweetness, and a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters for a bit of complexity (and it tames the spice just enough!). This is one you don't want to miss!
F. Scott Fitzgerald famously wrote that there are no second acts in American life," but this drink proves that there are! Invented by Dale DeGroff, a legend in the cocktail world. A regular wanted something other than his usual gin and tonic, and asked for a new gin drink. DeGroff Started with gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup (exactly how you'd start a Tom Collins), but instead of adding soda water for the Collins, he added some Angostura bitters. The regular loved it, and DeGroof called it the "Gin Thing" before somebody told him that he needed a better name. The menu already featured a Hemingway Daiquiri, and F. Scott Fitzgerald drank gin, so why not call it the Fitzgerald? He found out later that the drink already existed as the Prohibition-era Bennett, making this the mixture's second act, and you'll be glad that it's been resurrected! Bombay Sapphire, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, Angostura bitters.
I know it’s not Summer yet, but it’s close enough. If tiki drinks help make the next few weeks go by quicker, I’ll be sipping one everyday! This super delicious and tropical cocktail gives you all of the summer vibes and creeps up on you in the perfect way. Flor de Caña 4 year white rum, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, organic pineapple juice, organic mango purée and fresh lime.
Strawberries are so good right now I needed to do another drink this week taking advantage of how sweet they are. Centenario Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, house sour and a housemade organic strawberry purée.
Bright and pink, the Floradora takes its name from the musical Florodora, and it's a super refreshing drink for the summer! Herbal Bombay Sapphire gin is balanced with the tartness of lime, and the sweetness and fruit of both Framboise and raspberry syrup. If you want a little fizz to go with it, you can even add in some ginger ale!
The Pantheon cocktail was created by Daisuke Ito, the owner of Tokyo's Land Bar Artisan. Daisuke created something that was simple, yet with complex flavor, and it's perfect for sipping on a summer evening. The Monkey Shoulder Scotch brings oak and subtle smoke while the Benedictine brings herbal honeyed spice, balanced with lemon.
Summer is so close, we can almost taste it … literally! This is one of my fave summer time margs that we make on a regular basis. It’s sweet, spicy and hits all the right vibes when it comes to a good margarita. Casamigos Blanco Tequila infused with jalapeño, Cointreau, housemade sour, organic pineapple juice with a Tajin rim.
We’re sticking with the summer vibes because quite honestly that’s all I think about at this point. This drink is so delicious it very easy to have too many (yep that happened). The fruit, the coconut, it’s just so good. Flor de Caña white rum, Malibu Coconut Rum, organic pineapple juice, peach purée, coconut milk with a splash of grenadine.