Cheers & Holiday Spirits
I’m not cooking this year. We’ll be shuffling over to a friend’s house for Thanksgiving dividends, armed with platters of tiramisu in hand. It’s always good manners to bring something to a T-Day bonanza or to the holiday parties. Of course, the easiest, can’t-go-wrong option is a bottle. While times might be tough on the bank account, there’s still quite a few excellent reasons to toast. A surefire pleaser is a nice bottle champagne, like this sophisticated, yet moderately priced Pommery Brut Royal ($32 – $54).
Creativity usually compensates when price is an issue. Think international. A well-bred budget buy with resounding good taste is an Argentine wine. La Linda Malbec 2006 goes for $10.99 and is ripe with cherry notes that complement turkey and cranberries. An Israeli wine is an off the beaten path pick. Yarden’s Cabernet Sauvignon ($26.00) is layered with spice, chocolate, pipe tobacco and a hint of fresh herb and is is produced in vineyards of northern Galilee in Golan Heights..
If you want to bring the party with you, a cocktail might be more your speed. We’ve received a few simple recipes for consideration using Gran Gala (under $20!) that sound yummy. If you’re looking for a compliment to your sweet beverage, how about Grand Marnier enhanced macaroons? Payard Patisserie & Bistro has a gift sampler for $18 in four flavors including Grand Cosmo, the Grand Margarita, the Grand Mojito and the Orange Crush. Whatever your flavor, remember to leave room for dessert and the sweetness of life.
Chocolate Spice Martini
2 oz. Godiva
1 oz. GranGala
½ oz. Vodka
2 oz. Lite Cream
Dash Cinnamon
Dash Nutmeg
Dash Black Pepper
Shake all ingredients and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with an orange twist and dash of cinnamon or a roll of shaved dark chocolate.
Trieste Martini Crema
1 Shot espresso (Lightly Sugared)
½ oz GranGala Triple Orange Liqueur
½ oz Vodka
½ oz Cream
Slightly whip the cream using a small whisk or spoon. Combine GranGala, vodka and ice in a shaker. Brew a shot of illy espresso and add to shaker. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled martini glass. Gently add slightly whipped cream to the top by pouring or using a spoon. Garnish with an orange peel.
