Time for toasting the close of one year and celebrating the exciting beginning of a new one!
Is there anything more vibrant than fresh colorful fruit garnishing a cocktail? Cranberries illustrate fall and the holidays with their brilliant crimson red and they pair beautifully with citrus fruits. I grow orange citrus mint, which is regular mint infused with orange, making it less intense. If you cannot find it just use regular mint but less of it because mint is rather strong. Herbs and spices create fantastic simple syrups so play around and experiment!
I like La Marca Prosecco. It's lighter and sweeter than most regular Champagnes and this one has a little apple and citrus flavor along with a light sparkly texture. If you prefer traditional Brut that would be fine as well. You may have to adjust the sugar if using a very dry crisp sparkling wine.
If you want something besides just the bubbly in your glass on New Year's Eve, here's a creative mimosa idea that will give you a delicious way to ring in the new year :)
Ingredients For Mimosa
1/2 cup fresh cranberries
2 orange slices
2 lime slices
2 lemon slices
2 teaspoons sugar
1 tablespoon citrus mint simple syrup recipe follows)
Prosecco (I like La Marca)
Orange Mint Simple Syrup
Ingredients
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1 cup fresh orange citrus mint (you can use 1/2 cup regular mint if you cannot find the citrus)
Directions For Simple Syrup
Combine water and sugar into a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring continuously, until sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat and add fresh herbs. Cool to room temperature. Remove herb. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for about one month.
Directions For Mimosa
Muddle 1/4 cup of the cranberries, 1 orange, lime, lemon slice, and sugar together in a tall glass. Strain liquid into a cocktail glass. Pour in simple syrup. Add the rest of the cranberries and citrus slices. Top with Prosecco
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