Drink and Be Merry

Sometimes the best way to get through the holidays is with a cocktail in hand.

The right drink mixers can elevate the party for guests while easing the way for hosts. Not to mention what the results can do for everyone's spirit.     

Bring martinis into the season with mixers like Chocolate Peppermintini^TM from Stirrings that can be shaken with vodka and served with a complementing Rimmer® made of crushed candy canes. Spiced Apple Mixer combined with cane rum, milk and whipped egg yolks are the makings for Stirrings' Rudolph's Red Nosed Egg Nog.

For those who don't need bottled cheer, drink mixers work in cold "mocktails" or hot beverages. Syrups like Torani's Hot Buttered Rum, Eggnog and Cinnamon or Da Vinci Gourmet's Gingerbread jolly up lattes, ciders and steamers.—Denise Purcell

Serving Up  Cheer

Try these at your holiday celebrations:                                  

Jingle Julep:
3 ounces Stirrings Chocolate Peppermintini^TM; 2 ounces Bourbon; splash Brandy; splash Club Soda; mint. Combine all ingredients, stir with shaved ice and garnish with fresh mint.

Butter Rum Cider:
8 cups apple cider or juice; 1 cup Torani Butter Rum syrup. In a small saucepan, combine ingredients and heat gently. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Gingerbread Man Steamer:
1 ounce Da Vinci Gourmet Gingerbread Classic Syrup; steamed milk. Combine in an 8-ounce cup.

For more recipes, visit stirrings.com; torani.com; davincigourmet.com

Party Dress 

 Skip the Santa napkins or snowman wine glass charms when dressing holiday drinks. Check out these accessories:

 • Cocktail napkins and coasters featuring retro designs and vintage photos, instantliving.com; $3.99

 • "Mine" beer bands, surlatable.com; $5.95

 • Scrabble® or Monopoly® game piece wine glass charms, alwaysbrilliant.com; $18.99

 • Spring water ice cubes in disposable containers, icerocks.com

Denise Purcell is editor of Specialty Food Magazine.

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