Description
Shake up this festive cranberry holiday cocktail! A vibrant, elegant Christmas drink with vodka & citrus. Perfect for parties & celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Rosemary Simple Syrup (The Flavor Key):
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½ cup Water
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½ cup Granulated Sugar
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2-3 large sprigs Fresh Rosemary
For the Cocktail Base:
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4 oz (120 ml) High-Quality Gin (a London Dry or a floral gin works well)
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4 oz (120 ml) 100% Cranberry Juice (not cocktail, for a tart, sophisticated base)
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2 oz (60 ml) Fresh Lime Juice
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2 oz (60 ml) Rosemary Simple Syrup (from above)
For the Assembly & Garnish:
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Chilled Brut Champagne or Prosecco
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Fresh Cranberries
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Fresh Rosemary Sprigs
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Optional: A strip of Lime Zest
Instructions
Step 1: Craft the Rosemary Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and rosemary sprigs. Heat over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Let it simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat and allow the rosemary to steep for at least 30 minutes as the syrup cools. This infuses the syrup with a beautiful herbal essence. Strain out the rosemary and store the syrup in a jar. (Can be made up to 2 weeks ahead).
Step 2: Chill Your Glassware
Place your champagne flutes or coupe glasses in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before assembling the drinks. A frosty glass is essential for keeping the cocktail chilled and feeling extra special.
Step 3: Prepare the Cocktail Base (Can be Batched!)
In a pitcher or a large measuring cup, combine the gin, cranberry juice, fresh lime juice, and the 2 oz of cooled rosemary simple syrup. Stir well to combine. This entire base can be prepared and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance.
Step 4: Assemble the Drink
Take your chilled glasses. If desired, you can add a few fresh cranberries to the bottom of each glass for a pop of color. Divide the cocktail base evenly among the glasses, filling each one about halfway.
Step 5: The Grand Topper
Slowly and gently top each glass with chilled champagne or prosecco. Pouring it down the side of the glass helps preserve the bubbles and creates a beautiful layered effect before you stir.
Step 6: The Final Garnish
Gently place a small sprig of fresh rosemary into each glass. For an extra touch of aroma and citrus, express a lime twist over the drink by holding it over the glass, skin-side down, and giving it a sharp twist to release the oils, then drop it in.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Serve the cocktails right away while the bubbles are lively and the glass is frosty. Encourage your guests to give a gentle stir to integrate the layers before sipping
Notes
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Small Saucepan
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Pitcher or Large Measuring Cup
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Champagne Flutes or Coupe Glasses
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Jigger
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Fine-Mesh Strainer
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Fat: 15 g