Sparkling Cocktail Recipes

Leftover V-Day Bubbles, or How I Learned to Love Myself Everyday with Champagne Cocktails

BY: JOSHUA GANDEE
Beverage Director, Watershed Kitchen & Bar

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There’s no question that sparkling wine sales go up around Valentine’s Day (and NYE, of course). Whether you’re celebrating a budding romance, a decade of wedded bliss, or just your perfect single self, sparkling wine seems to be the drink of choice for that “intimate” holiday. But we think you should love yourself or your partner year-round. So, forget Valentine’s day and embrace the bubbly cocktail!

Whether you have leftover bubbles, or you’re taking advantage of the bottles that go on sale after the holiday, consider a Champagne cocktail. Whether its real Champagne, a dry Spanish Cava, or the half bottle of Prosecco left over in your fridge, sparkling wine can add a touch of elegance to any cocktail. Below are two simple recipes that are perfect for a before dinner cocktail or paired with a chocolate dessert. You don’t need to wait until Valentine’s day to show some love, so don’t wait for a special holiday to drink a special drink.

Recipes

ONE IF BY DAY, BOOTHBY NIGHT

1.5oz  Watershed Bourbon Barrel Gin

1.5oz  Sweet Vermouth

4 dash Orange Bitters

To Make: 

Add all ingredients to a cocktail mixer and stir until well chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe and top with champagne or prosecco, garnish with two picked cherries.

Tools:

Mixing Glass, Spoon, Strainer

Glass: Coupe

Garnish: Cherries

JOHNNY’S BIRDSHOT

1.5oz Watershed Apple Brandy

.75oz Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice

.5oz  Simple Syrup

To Make: 

Add ingredients to a shaker tin, shake until well chilled and strain into a champagne flute. Top cocktail with prosecco or sparkling cider, garnish with a healthy apple slice.

Tools:

 Shaker Tins, Strainer

Glass: Flute

Garnish: Red Apple