There’s nothing like a snow day to make you want to cozy up indoors. The best part? You don’t even need to brave the cold to create a delicious cocktail—you likely have everything you need right at home. Whether you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting or looking for a drink to bring a touch of sunshine to a wintery afternoon, we’ve got you covered with these simple snow-day sips.
Hard seltzers are pre-mixed, convenient, and perfect for a party. Try the Mrs. “Claws” cocktail to class things up during the holidays. This festive drink uses pomegranate juice, lime, and raspberry-flavored White Claw, but feel free to get creative with other flavors like black cherry, lime, or tangerine. Cranberry juice works as a great substitute if you don’t have pomegranate.
For a festive sugar rim, use coarse sugar. Rub a lime wedge along the rim and dip it in the sugar. For a firmer hold, you can also use honey or corn syrup. Check out this short video on how to make one!
Warm up with a classic hot toddy, perfect for taking the chill out of a snowy day. All you need is hot water, honey, lemon juice, and a splash of whiskey. Combine the ingredients, stir, and garnish with a cinnamon stick if you have one. It’s soothing, warming, and will have you feeling cozy in no time.
Hot chocolate is already a snow day favorite, but why not give it an adult twist? Simply make your favorite hot cocoa (instant packets work just fine) and add a shot of Baileys, Kahlúa, or even a bit of rum. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows, and you have yourself a rich, indulgent treat.
If you’re longing for a taste of summer in the middle of a snowstorm, a screwdriver is just what you need. The only ingredients required are vodka and orange juice, both of which are common household staples. Mix them together over ice, and you’ll have a simple yet refreshing drink to brighten up your snow day.
If you have some leftover apple cider in your fridge, why not make an Apple Cider Mule? Mix equal parts apple cider and ginger beer, and add a splash of vodka. This cocktail is crisp and flavorful, blending the taste of fall with the freshness of ginger beer. If you happen to have a lime, add a squeeze to bring it all together.
Another simple cocktail with minimal ingredients, a whiskey sour only requires whiskey, lemon juice, and a bit of sugar. Shake the ingredients together with ice and strain into a glass. This tangy and sweet drink is an excellent way to enjoy a snowy afternoon indoors.
When snow is falling outside, why not embrace it with a snowball-themed drink? For this simple martini, all you need is vodka, cream, and a bit of sugar. Shake with ice, then strain into a glass. It’s creamy, sweet, and perfectly reminiscent of the soft, white snow.
If you’re a wine lover, why not try a warm mulled punch? Grab that half-full bottle of red wine and combine it with orange slices, a bit of honey, and any winter spices you have on hand—like cinnamon or cloves. Heat it gently on the stove, making sure not to boil, and you’ll have a fragrant, cozy punch that’s perfect for sipping while watching the snow pile up outside.
Enjoy the Snow Day with Ease
Snow days are about making the most of what you already have on hand—whether that means relaxing by the fire or shaking up an easy cocktail. These recipes are simple, delicious, and perfect for adding a little extra warmth and fun to your wintery day indoors. So next time you’re snowed in, skip the store run and mix up one of these cozy creations with what you already have in your kitchen.
Make sure to stop by Tri-State Liquors to stock up before the next storm hits!
Halloween is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning a party that will send chills down your guests’ spines—in the best way possible. To make your bash unforgettable, you’ll need spooky decorations, eerie music, and most importantly, some hauntingly good drinks! Whether you’re serving snacks or a full spread, here are the best drink pairings to elevate your Halloween party and leave your guests bewitched.
For a Halloween party punch that looks as eerie as it is delicious, try this Halloween Sangria. This spooky sangria combines apples and blood oranges with red wine and sparkling cider. Pair it with a spooky snack platter filled with dark chocolate-covered almonds, black licorice, and gummy worms. The light fruity notes of the sangria contrast perfectly with the rich, sweet snacks.
Nothing screams fall more than warm apple cider, and when you spike it with a dash of bourbon or spiced rum, it becomes the perfect cozy Halloween cocktail. Pair this autumnal favorite with pumpkin-spiced popcorn, adding a festive twist to the salty-sweet combo. This pairing will bring comforting fall flavors to your eerie event.
Give the classic margarita a Halloween makeover by mixing up “Bloody Margaritas” with a splash of pomegranate juice for a deep crimson hue. The tartness pairs perfectly with the heat of spicy jalapeño bat wings—chicken wings shaped like bat wings with an extra fiery kick. This pairing will give your guests a devilishly good time.
For a large crowd, Vampire Punch is a must. A mix of dark rum, cranberry juice, and blackberries creates a rich, blood-red hue that will set the mood. Pair it with a charcuterie board fit for Dracula himself—loaded with deep red meats, cheeses, and fruit. Think prosciutto, salami, brie, and pomegranate seeds to complement the punch’s rich flavors.
A Ghostly White Russian brings a spooky twist to the creamy cocktail classic, with vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream for a ghostly white appearance. For dessert, pair this drink with chocolate “graveyard” brownies—topped with crushed Oreos to resemble dirt and candy tombstones for that extra eerie factor. It’s a perfect combo of rich and indulgent flavors.
Give your party an air of mystery with a Black Magic Martini. Made with black vodka, cranberry juice, and a hint of lime, it looks as spooky as it tastes refreshing. Pair these sleek cocktails with poison apple bites—sliced green apples coated in caramel and sprinkled with sea salt. The tartness of the apple cuts through the sweetness of the drink for a spellbinding effect.
For a fun autumn twist on a classic mule, try the Tito’s Vodka Pumpkin Mule. Mix Tito’s vodka with ginger beer, a splash of lime juice, and a hint of pumpkin puree for a cocktail that’s both refreshing and full of fall flavors. Pair this drink with savory “Monster Meatballs,” glazed in a tangy barbecue sauce to give your guests something hearty to enjoy while they sip. The ginger and lime from the mule balance the richness of the meatballs, making this pairing perfect for a spooky gathering.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Candy Corn Martini is the ultimate Halloween treat. Made with whipped cream vodka and a splash of orange juice for that iconic candy corn look, this dessert cocktail pairs perfectly with caramel apple slices. The crisp apples and rich caramel balance the martini’s sweetness, making this a crowd-pleaser at any Halloween gathering.
Conclusion
Your Halloween party should be as fun and festive as the season itself, and the right drink pairings can take it to the next level. Whether you’re serving up a spooky Vampire Punch or a delicious Halloween Sangria, these hauntingly good pairings are sure to make your event a hit. So, grab your cauldron (or cocktail shaker), and get ready to stir up some chillingly delicious drinks this Halloween!
As the heat of summer begins to wane and the first cool breezes of autumn arrive, our taste buds naturally shift toward richer, cozier flavors. September is a time of transition, and the cocktails that shine during this month reflect that blend of summer’s end and fall’s beginning. In this blog, we’ll explore some signature cocktails perfect for September, each with a unique story and recipe that captures the season’s essence.
Cranberries are a staple of fall, but their tartness still echoes the brightness of summer. The Cranberry Gin Fizz is the perfect drink to bridge the gap between the two seasons. Traditionally, a gin fizz is a refreshing cocktail known for its frothy texture and citrusy zing. Adding cranberries to the mix introduces a tangy depth, making it an ideal drink for September’s unpredictable weather.
Recipe:
– 4 oz gin
– 1 oz orange juice
– 3 oz cranberry juice
– Ginger beer or ginger ale, for topping
– Ice
– Thyme sprigs, fresh cranberries, and an orange peel for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a glass, combine gin, orange juice, and cranberry juice.
2. Add ice.
3. Top with ginger beer or ginger ale and gently stir.
5. Garnish with fresh cranberries, a thyme sprig, and an orange peel.
As apple orchards burst with ripe fruit, September is the perfect time to start incorporating apple cider into your cocktails. The Apple Cider Old Fashioned is a twist on the classic bourbon cocktail, infused with the warmth and spice of autumn. This drink brings together the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple, making it a delightful choice for a crisp evening.
Recipe:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz apple cider
– 1/4 oz maple syrup
– 2 dashes of bitters
– Cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a glass, mix the bourbon, apple cider, maple syrup, and bitters.
2. Add a large ice cube and stir until well combined.
3. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an apple slice.
Pumpkin spice is synonymous with fall, and by September, its flavors start to appear in everything from lattes to desserts. The Pumpkin Spice White Russian is a playful take on the classic cocktail, blending vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream with a touch of pumpkin spice syrup. It’s a decadent, dessert-like drink perfect for cozy evenings.
Recipe:
– 1 oz vodka
– 1 oz coffee liqueur
– 1 oz pumpkin spice
– 1 oz heavy cream
– Ground cinnamon for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice and add vodka, coffee liqueur, and pumpkin spice syrup.
2. Stir gently to combine.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, letting it float on top.
September is also pear season, and the subtle sweetness of this fruit pairs beautifully with the spicy warmth of ginger. The Pear and Ginger Martini is a sophisticated cocktail that’s both refreshing and comforting. The ginger adds a zesty kick that complements the juicy pear, making it a standout drink as the nights begin to cool.
Recipe:
– 2 oz pear vodka
– 1 oz ginger liqueur
– 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
– Pear slice and candied ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a shaker, combine pear vodka, ginger liqueur, and lemon juice with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass.
3. Garnish with a pear slice and a piece of candied ginger.
As the leaves start to turn, maple syrup becomes a key ingredient that captures the essence of fall. The Maple Bourbon Smash is a rich, flavorful cocktail that combines the robust character of bourbon with the sweet, earthy notes of maple syrup. A hint of lemon and fresh mint adds brightness, making it an ideal drink for September evenings.
Recipe:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 3/4 oz maple syrup
– 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
– Mint leaves
– Lemon wheel and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Muddle mint leaves in a shaker.
2. Add bourbon, maple syrup, and lemon juice.
3. Shake with ice until well combined.
4. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of mint.
Sangria isn’t just for summer! This fall-inspired version uses ripe pears, white wine, and warming spices like cinnamon and cloves. The Spiced Pear Sangria is light yet flavorful, perfect for September gatherings where you want to offer something unique and refreshing with a hint of autumnal charm.
Recipe:
– 1 bottle of white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
– 1/4 cup brandy
– 1/4 cup pear juice
– 2 ripe pears, sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 3 cloves
– Club soda
– Pear slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine wine, brandy, pear juice, sliced pears, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
2. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
3. To serve, pour into glasses over ice, topping with a splash of club soda.
4. Garnish with additional pear slices and a cinnamon stick.
Conclusion
September’s cocktails are all about capturing the transitional essence of the month—balancing the last notes of summer with the welcoming flavors of fall. Whether you’re sipping on a tart Cranberry Gin Fizz, enjoying the warmth of an Apple Cider Old Fashioned, indulging in a Pumpkin Spice White Russian, savoring the elegance of a Pear and Ginger Martini, embracing the rich sweetness of a Maple Bourbon Smash, or refreshing with a Spiced Pear Sangria, these drinks will help you toast to the new season in style. Cheers to the perfect start of autumn!
August is the perfect time for enjoying warm evenings, refreshing drinks, and good company. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal gathering, making the most of your August happy hours at home can be a breeze with the right planning. Here’s how to create an unforgettable happy hour experience, complete with delicious drink recipes, tasty snacks, and tips for seamless entertaining.
1. Craft the Perfect Drink Menu
Start by curating a drink menu that will impress your guests and keep the vibe relaxed. Here are some refreshing drink ideas to get you started:
Ingredients: Limoncello, prosecco, soda water, ice, lemon slices, fresh mint.
Instructions: Fill a glass with ice. Pour in limoncello and top with prosecco and a splash of soda water. Stir gently and garnish with lemon slices and a sprig of fresh mint. Check out this short video on how to make one!
Ingredients: Fresh mint leaves, lime juice, simple syrup, white rum, soda water, ice.
Instructions: Muddle mint leaves with lime juice and sugar in a glass. Add ice, pour in rum, top with soda water, and stir well. Garnish with a mint sprig and lime wedge.
Summer Sangria
Ingredients: Red wine, brandy, orange juice, assorted fresh fruits (such as oranges, lemons, limes, berries), soda water.
Instructions: Combine wine, brandy, and orange juice in a pitcher. Add chopped fruits and let it chill in the refrigerator. Before serving, add soda water for a fizzy touch.
Instructions: Muddle pineapple chunks and basil leaves with lime juice and simple syrup in a glass. Add ice, pour in vodka, and stir well. Garnish with a basil sprig and a pineapple slice.
2. Pair with Delicious Snacks
No happy hour is complete without a selection of snacks that complement your drinks. Here are some crowd-pleasing ideas:
Instructions: Mix cream cheese with garlic and herbs. Stuff the mixture into mushroom caps, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and bake until golden.
Fresh Veggie Platter with Dip
Ingredients: Assorted fresh vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers), hummus or ranch dip.
Instructions: Arrange the veggies on a platter and serve with a side of hummus or ranch dip.
3. Set the Scene
Creating the right atmosphere can elevate your happy hour experience. Consider these tips:
Lighting: Opt for soft, ambient lighting with string lights or candles to set a cozy mood.
Music: Create a playlist with upbeat, relaxing tunes that match the vibe of your gathering. Aim for background music that encourages conversation.
Seating: Arrange comfortable seating for your guests, ensuring there’s plenty of space for everyone to mingle and relax.
Table Setup: Use stylish serving trays, garnished glasses, and attractive tableware to make your setup visually appealing.
4. Engage Your Guests
Interactive elements can add a fun touch to your happy hour:
DIY Drink Stations: Set up a DIY cocktail station where guests can mix their own drinks with provided ingredients and garnishes.
Tasting Challenges: Create tasting challenges for drinks or snacks. For example, have a mini competition to guess the ingredients of a cocktail.
Themed Games: Incorporate themed games related to your drinks or snacks, like a trivia quiz on cocktail history.
5. Don’t Forget the Essentials
Make sure you have all the essentials covered:
Ice: Keep a good supply of ice on hand to keep your drinks chilled and refreshing.
Glassware: Ensure you have the appropriate glassware for each drink—whether it’s highball glasses, wine glasses, or cocktail glasses.
Napkins and Utensils: Provide plenty of napkins and utensils for easy cleanup and convenience.
By following these tips, you’ll create a memorable and enjoyable August happy hour that your guests will rave about. Cheers to good times, great drinks, and even better company!
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy refreshing cocktails that cool you down while adding a splash of fun to your gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, lounging by the pool, or simply looking to unwind after a long day, these top summer cocktails are sure to beat the heat.
1. In the glass you will be serving the drink, muddle the fresh strawberries until they release their juices.
2. Add Tequila, lime juice and tonic water and stir
3. Top with ice and enjoy!
This light and fruity cocktail is both refreshing and incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for hot summer days. Check out this short video on how to make one!
1. Muddle cucumber slices and mint leaves in a cocktail shaker.
2. Add gin and lime juice, then fill the shaker with ice.
3. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a cucumber slice and mint sprig.
This gin fizz is a crisp and refreshing choice, perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day.
Conclusion
These summer cocktails are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer the fruity freshness of a Strawberry Tequila Soda or the tropical taste of a Pineapple Coconut Margarita, there’s a cocktail here to suit every palate. So grab your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy the best of summer with these delightful drinks. Cheers to staying cool and refreshed all season long!
Fourth of July is a time for celebration, and what better way to honor the spirit of independence than by hosting a memorable party? If you’re planning a Fourth of July gathering, we’ve got you covered with these 6 fun and festive party ideas that feature delicious alcoholic beverages. From refreshing cocktails to patriotic themed drinks, your guests will be raising their glasses to a fantastic Independence Day celebration.
