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 season for outdoor gatherings, and nothing beats a classic BBQ with friends and family. To elevate your BBQ experience, it’s essential to pair your delicious grilled dishes with the right beverages. Here’s a guide to the best beers, wines, and spirits to complement your favorite BBQ fare.
– Why it works: The caramel and vanilla notes in bourbon highlight the smokiness of pulled pork and the charred flavors of a perfectly grilled steak.
2. Tequila
– Pairs with: Grilled shrimp and fish tacos
– Why it works: Tequila’s crisp, herbal profile complements the fresh, zesty flavors of seafood, making it an excellent choice for grilled shrimp and fish tacos.
3. Rum
– Pairs with: Grilled pineapple and tropical fruit skewers
– Why it works: Rum’s sweet, molasses flavor enhances the natural sweetness of grilled fruits, creating a deliciously indulgent dessert option.
– Why it works: The hoppy bitterness of pale ales and IPAs cuts through the richness and spice of these dishes, providing a refreshing contrast.
2. Amber Ales
– Pairs with: Grilled sausages and burgers
– Why it works: The maltiness of amber ales complements the savory, slightly charred flavors of grilled meats, enhancing the overall taste experience.
3. Wheat Beers
– Pairs with: Grilled chicken and seafood
– Why it works: Light and citrusy wheat beers bring out the subtle flavors of chicken and seafood, making them taste even more delightful on a hot summer day.
– Why it works: Zinfandel’s bold, fruity flavors and peppery undertones are perfect for matching the sweet and smoky notes of BBQ pork dishes.
2. Rosé
– Pairs with: Grilled vegetables and lighter meats like turkey
– Why it works: Rosé’s bright acidity and subtle fruitiness balance the earthy flavors of grilled vegetables and the lean taste of turkey.
3. Chardonnay
– Pairs with: Grilled salmon and shrimp
– Why it works: A buttery, oaked Chardonnay enhances the rich flavors of grilled salmon and shrimp, adding a layer of sophistication to your BBQ.
Tips for Perfect Pairings
1. Match Intensity: Pair light dishes with light beverages and rich dishes with bolder drinks to ensure the flavors complement rather than overpower each other.
2. Consider the Sauce: The type of BBQ sauce you use can significantly impact the pairing. For example, a tangy vinegar-based sauce pairs well with a crisp, dry white wine, while a sweet, smoky sauce is perfect with a rich, full-bodied red.
3. Stay Cool: Opt for chilled wines, beers, and cocktails to keep your guests refreshed in the summer heat.
Conclusion
Choosing the right beverage to go with your BBQ dishes can take your summer cookout from good to unforgettable. Whether you prefer beer, wine, or spirits, there’s a perfect pairing for every type of BBQ dish. So fire up the grill, gather your friends, and enjoy a fantastic summer BBQ with the perfect drinks to match. Cheers to a delicious and refreshing BBQ season!
For more pairing tips and beverage recommendations, visit us at Tri-State Liquors. We have everything you need to make your summer BBQ a hit!
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!
It’s almost here, the Cincinnati Bengals are set to play the Los Angeles Ram in the Big Game on Sunday, February 13th in the state-of-the-art SoFi Stadium with kick off at 6:30 pm. Although both teams have had several chances to win the big game over the years, the Rams is the only of the two that have had a win.
Commercials at the 2022 Game
While the main attention will be on the game, there is always the anticipation of what commercials will trend ever since Apple’s famous “1984” ad which not only captivated audiences, it sent the price of a 30-second spot spiraling. The cost this year is reported to be up to 6.5 million.
