What’s your signature cocktail?A growing number of my brides and grooms are choosing to serve a Signature Cocktail at their reception, a drink created just for their day. Often, we name these commemorative concoctions for the new couple as well. Love it! But where should you begin when creating your own signature sip? To help kick things off, I checked in with an expert for a little advice.
Jana Miller, bartender extraordinaire from Rocky’s in Denton, is often tasked with creating one-of-a-kind cocktails. In her experience, color can be the key. ”Midori, Blue Curacao and Razzmatazz are always good bases for a colorful drink,” she says, noting three jewel-toned, fruit-flavored liqueurs (see list below for even more options). ”If people want something neutral, my go-to liquor right now is Tanqueray Rangpur. It’s delish! Mixed with Sprite or Tonic, it’s a refreshing way to start the night.”
Jana is right on the money – and she makes this whole mixology thing sound like fun. Why not take a look at some basic recipes today, and then experiment with variations until you come up with one that’s just right for you? Whether you’re leaning toward a take on the traditional martini, or a fruit-filled number with a tropical twist, a Signature Cocktail can be a great way to break the ice at your upcoming reception!
Recipes:
(adapted from FineLiving.com)
Basic Martini
3.5 oz. Vodka or Gin
.5 oz. Dry Vermouth
Pour ice, Vodka or Gin and vermouth into a shaker. Shake and pour into a martini glass and garnish as desired.
Basic Gin & Tonic
2 oz. Gin
Tonic Water
Pour Gin over ice in a rocks glass. Fill with tonic water and garnish as desired.
A Few Colorful Liqueurs:
Flavor: Citrus
Color: Blue
Flavor: Dark Chocolate (other flavors available)
Color: Chocolate Brown
Flavor: Coffee
Color: Deep Brown
Flavor: Sweet Lemon
Color: Yellow
Flavor: Melon
Color: Bright Green
Flavor: Pomegranate
Color: Deep Red
Razzmatazz (alsoChambord)
Flavor: Raspberry
Color: Red
Bonus: A Fabulous Floral Garnish
Drop one of these beautiful Hibiscus blooms into a cocktail, and listen as guests “ooooh” and “aaaah”. The sweet flowers will also add a romantic, rosy glow.
