HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Two of my favorite cocktails

The Holidays are such a festive time with lots of fabulous receptions, parties and events.

I love cocktails this time of year. They are fun, they are wonderful conversation pieces, they make for such a festive atmosphere, and they look stunning.

Let me share two of my all time faves with you.

Perhaps my favorite cocktail is the Manhattan. What is not to love! Rich taste, a fabulous name and all of it rounded up by a sweet cocktail cherry. I love the warm flavor and the beautiful color. I can live without the cherry, but a beautiful martini glass is an absolute must!

Here’s a good recipe for one serving, just multiply by the number of guests.

Manhattan (photo above)

Cracked ice
Dash of Angostura bitters
3 measures rye whiskey
1 measure sweet vermouth
1 cocktail cherry

Personal tip:
replace the Angostura with an orange bitter for a zestier taste

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If you need to keep a clear head, but still want some cocktail fun, my favorite is a Virgin Mary. Red is a stunning color for a holiday drink, and a bit of decoration fits right in with decking the halls. I love the spicy tomato flavor combined with fresh celery and lemon.

Here is my favorite recipe serving one.

Virgin Mary

Cracked ice
3 measures tomato juice
1 measure lemon juice
2 dashes Worcestershire sauce 1 dash Tabasco Sauce
Celery salt
Black pepper
Lemon wedge
Celery stick

Personal tip:
this is a great cocktail for a party because it goes non-alcoholic and with alcohol; simply add a bit of vodka for the Bloody Mary option.

Have a wonderful holiday season, and a successful and prosperous new year!