TIME FOR A TIPPLE
These cocktails guarantee a merry mood.
CRANBERRY MARGARITAS FOR A CROWD
MAKES 1 PITCHER
480ml blanco tequila 480ml cranberry juice 360ml Cointreau or triple sec 120ml fresh lime juice Fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs and blood orange wheels, to garnish
2 tbsp kosher salt*
2 tbsp sugar
Lime wedges
1. Combine the tequila, cranberry juice, Cointreau and lime juice in an ice-filled pitcher and stir. (If not serving immediately, omit the ice and chill in the fridge for up to one day.) Garnish the pitcher with some or all of the cranberries, rosemary sprig and blood orange wheels. Allow to stand for at least 5 minutes to chill.
2. Meanwhile, combine the salt and sugar on a saucer. Run a lime wedge along the rim of just one side of a tumbler, then lightly roll that portion of the rim in the salt-sugar mixture to make a half-moon. Repeat the process with three more tumblers.
3. When ready, fill the glasses halfway with ice and a few cranberries. Pour in the margarita and garnish with a lime wedge.
For a non-alcoholic version, just omit the Cointreau and tequila
WHITE RUSSIAN
45ml vodka 22ml coffee liqueur 22ml double cream
Combine the ingredients in an ice-filled shaker and shake for 30 seconds until chilled. Strain into a tumbler and serve.
CIDER SIDECAR
30ml Calvados
30ml orange liqueur, such as Cointreau 30ml fresh lemon juice
30ml unfiltered apple juice
Star anise pod
Orange twist
Combine the Calvados, orange liqueur, lemon juice and apple juice in an ice-filled cocktail shaker and shake for 30 seconds until chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with the star anise and orange twist.