I was reading YumSugar, as always, and loved how they blogged about the new Food and Wine Cocktail Book for 2008.  This is perfect if you are looking for the signature drink to kick off your reception or event. 

This made me think about my other favorites, Hip Sips:  Modern Cocktails to Raise Your Spirits and The Art of the Bar: Cocktails Inspired by the Classics.  I think that food is only good if your chef has had a glass of wine while they have been cooking, and a party ain’t a party unless the cocktails are flowing! (FYI, if you’re coming to my house…you’re leaving “happy“)

Here are some of my favorites:

Peanut Butter & Jelly

I know you don’t believe me, but you really do have to try it. It smells and tastes just like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich! 

.5 oz Chambord

.5 oz Frangelico

Some people take it as a shot, but when it was first given to me, I had it in a martini glass and that’s how it should be.  Completely divine. 

Crazy in Love

This one is strong, but oooohhhhh so good!  Don’t drink it if you have to drive….anywhere for the next two days.

3 oz Apple Cider (Not a lot of people have this on hand, so you can mix it with apple juice instead)

1 oz Gin

2 oz Rum

2 oz Tequila

2 oz Vodka

Perfect Set

Perfect for your sweet tooth!

5 oz Apple Cider (you can sub apple juice here, but the cider is definitely worth it!)

3 oz Apple Schnapps

.5oz Cinnamon Schnapps

1 oz Ice

1 oz Vodka

Rim the glass with caramel. Add an apple slice on the side or a thin slice on the top to garnish. 

I will stop here, because I’m pretty sure we’ll have to check your blood-alcohol level from just reading this.  But don’t worry…I’ll be back with more 🙂