Springtime Celebrations with Refreshing Style

It's that time of year again, when we shake loose the chill of winter and embrace the beauty of Spring.  We take the opportunity to gather outdoors with family and friends, and share fresh air, great food, and sparkling beverages in colors as vibrant as newly bloomed flowers.

It is also a time for spiritual reflection as families gather to celebrate Passover and Easter. We at SMS Mixology stand firm in our conviction that anytime friends and family gather, even on religious holidays, present excellent opportunities for hosts to shine as they entertain. We are delighted to share a couple of recipes for your entertaining inspiration.

Passover Gatherings

In additional to any of the great Passover approved Kosher wines available, guests can be invited to enjoy mixed drink cocktails.  Passover approved Kosher fruits and herbs should be very easy to acquire, and can be mixed with liqueurs and spirits that are Passover approved.  Here is a simple drink that you can try:

 

PASSOVER Cocktail Recipe:

1 Part ABSOLUT VODKA
6 Parts Grapefruit Juice
2 Parts Passionfruit Liqueur

Fill a chilled highball glass with ice cubes. Add all ingredients.

Easter Gatherings

Whether you choose to host an Easter breakfast, brunch, or dinner, you cannot miss with the traditional mimosa, which is made with champagne and orange juice.  However, take this time to get creative with the flavor profiles by switching out the orange juice component.  Try this colorful twist on the mimosa:

Pomegranate Sparkler

• 3 oz. champagne 
(chilled)
• 1 oz. pomegranate juice 
(or cranberry juice) 

Pour pomegranate juice into a champagne flute. Then slowly add the champagne.  Float some pomegranate seeds to give the drink an added personal touch. Cranberry juice can be substituted for the pomegranate juice. Some cranberries can then be skewered on a long stir stick to create a garnish.

Spring Luncheons/Garden Party

SMS Mixology hails from the South, where the Garden Party is a common event.  For your next gathering, try these delightful cocktails that embrace the spirit and the essence of nature by incorporating fresh herbs and flowers:

Thyme Bellini

• 3 ripe peach slices, peeled
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme, no stems
• 1 tsp sugar
• Dash orange bitters
• 4 oz chilled Prosecco (or other sparkling wine)

Combine peaches, thyme, sugar and bitters in a cocktail shaker, and muddle well. (Peaches should be almost pureed.) Pour into a chilled cocktail glass and top with Prosecco. Serve garnished with another sprig of thyme.

Jasmine Martini
1 cup sugar 1 cup of Jasmine Water (usually find this in the exotic food section)
2 strips orange zest
1/2 cup vodka
1/4 cup Grand Marnier
1 lemon, juiced
Jasmine flowers


Make a simple syrup of the sugar, jasmine water, and orange zest. Place jasmine flowers in a glass jar, and pour the simple syrup over the flowers. Steep for 1-2 hours to infuse. In a martini shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, Grand Marnier, lemon juice, and 4 tablespoons of the Jasmine syrup. Shake to combine, and strain into chilled martini glasses. Float a jasmine flower in each glass to garnish.

 As always, we encourage you to have fun with your entertaining.  Be sure to host and drink responsibly.  All of these drinks can be made without the alcohol, for those who do not drink.  If you wish to be freed up to enjoy your event, especially if you are entertaining a large group, you should engage the services of a professional service, like SMS Mixology.  Enjoy your Spring, and remember to entertain using your unique Spirits of Style!

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