When I think of the holiday season I think of soft lighting and cozy nights by the fire, glitter and sparkles, cocktail parties and Santa Claus and I like to create drinks that support that mood. But the husband was craving something a little less pretty and a little less sweet. Something that would appeal to you if, instead of White Christmas being your favorite holiday movie, Die Hard is your film of choice. Christmas with a little bit of an edge, which I can get down with.
I had been envisioning a cranberry champagne cocktail, but once C mentioned Die Hard my mind started thinking of classics like the Manhattan and Old Fashioned. I also just read “The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book” by Frank Caiafa, so I was feeling inspired. (If you’re passionate about your cocktails–like we are–you should check out that book. Some great tips and delicious recipes.) So, I combined all the ideas to create this week’s Festive Friday cocktail….I used Frank’s recipe for berry simple syrup to create the cranberry version in this drink and did a play on an Old Fashioned….nixed the bourbon because of my wheat allergy but kept the spirit of the drink.
This is my answer when Old Fashioned cravings kick in. This drink is so diverse, as perfect in front of a bonfire as it would be at a glamorous holiday party. So whip up a batch for friends at your next game night or make gift wrapping extra interesting with this treat. I think you’re going to love it.
The McClane
Ingredients (serves 1)
- 2 ounces of Brandy (as you know by now I use E&J VSOP
- .5 ounces of Sherry
- .25 ounce Cranberry simply syrup (recipe below)
- Orange slice (half wheel)
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters (2 hard shakes)
- 2 dashes orange bitters (2 hard shakes)
- Orange peel twist for garnish
Directions
- Add the orange slice, cranberry simple syrup and bitters to a rocks glass
- Muddle
- Add brandy and sherry
- Stir gently
- Add large ice cube
- Twist orange peel over the drink and rub around the rim
- Let sit for about 20 seconds before drinking
Cranberry Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 8 ounces water
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
Directions
- Add water, sugar and cranberries to a medium sauce pan
- Heat, keeping mixture right below a simmer for 20 minutes, stirring regularly
- Once cranberries are soft, strain through a fine mesh strainer, pressing down on fruit
- Let cool to room temperature then funnel into a glass container for storage
- Lasts up to 3 weeks
Here’s to an enchanting weekend and an even more enchanting Christmas!
XOXO
