Classic Beverages Popular Once Again

Cheers!

Create delicious beverages that complement any social gathering this entertaining season.

Trends of the past often regain popularity in modern days. This is now occuring in home entertaining. Certain drinks that may have fallen out of favor are experiencing a rebirth at cocktail parties and other occasions across the country - particularly during this season, where entertaining is at its most popular.

At the forefront of this drink revitalization is the elegant Italian liqueur Fernet-Branca. Created in 1845 from 27 herbs and spices, this beverage is an aromatic spirit that settles the stomach and refreshes the palate, and has long been used as a "digestivo." What many do not realize is that, when mixed with other beverages or even enjoyed neat, Fernet-Branca creates a number of popular cocktails. For example, the best kept secret of bartenders on the West Coast of the U.S. is the "Italian Sidecar," the hottest trend right now in San Francisco. The recipe is simple: a shot of Fernet-Branca followed by a ginger ale chaser.

There are other classic drink recipes you can serve at your party or gatherings. Here are a few that are the perfect complement to food and fun.

· Daiquiris: Daiquiris are a Cuban-based family of cocktails whose main ingredients are rum and lime juice. While the variations are many dependent upon added ingredients, drink aficionados credit the "Daiquiri Floridita," as the most famous version. In fact, the frozen daiquiris common in the southern half of the country aren't considered true daiquiris to purists.

· Sangria: Festivities that are awash in Latin culture have gained popularity in recent years as lively events perfect for social occasions. In addition to spicy, savory menu items, sangria - a wine- and fruit-infused drink synonymous with Spain and festive events, is often served.

· Liqueurs: Liqueurs are versatile in the way that they can oftentimes be enjoyed on their own or enhance other beverages when mixed. They are also appropriate at a wide variety of occasions, from informal get-togethers to dessert or cocktail parties.

Visit www.brancaproducts.com for more beverage recipes perfect for any entertaining opportunity.

SIDEBAR: BEVERAGE RECIPE CARD

*Daiquiri Floridita

1.5 ounces light-dry rum

1 lime, juiced

1 teaspoon sugar

Crushed ice

10 drops of Maraschino liqueur

Mix all the ingredients in a blender until ice is finely crushed and serve iced.

*Classic Sangria

1 bottle red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Rioja, Zinfandel, Shiraz)

1 lemon cut into wedges

1 orange cut into wedges

2 tablespoons sugar

1 shot brandy

2 cups club soda or ginger ale

Pour wine into a pitcher and squeeze the juice wedges from the lemon and orange into the wine. Toss in the fruit wedges (leaving out seeds if possible) and add sugar and brandy. Chill overnight. Add ginger ale or club soda just before serving. To make and serve immediately, simply substitute pre-chilled wine in the mix.

*Fernet-BRAnca and Cola

1 part Fernet-Branca

4 parts cola

Place ice in a glass and add Fernet-Branca followed by the cola.

*Brancamenta and Sprite

1 part Brancamenta

4 parts Sprite or other lemon-lime beverage

Serve over ice. Garnish with lemon.

Fun Site:

The Wine Enthusiast - Wine Cellars, Wine Accessories, Wine Racks, Wine Glasses and more. (Click Here!)

Until Next Time!
Jasmine

www.barworks.blogspot.com