Cocktail Time!

What's your signature cocktail?

A growing number of my brides and grooms are choosing to serve a Signature Cocktail at their reception, a drink created just for their day.  Often, we name these commemorative concoctions for the new couple as well.  Love it!  But where should you begin when creating your own signature sip?  To help kick things off, I checked in with an expert for a little advice.

Jana Miller, bartender extraordinaire from Rocky's in Denton, is often tasked with creating one-of-a-kind cocktails.  In her experience, color can be the key.  "Midori, Blue Curacao and Razzmatazz are always good bases for a colorful drink," she says, noting three jewel-toned, fruit-flavored liqueurs (see list below for even more options).  "If people want something neutral, my go-to liquor right now is Tanqueray Rangpur. It's delish! Mixed with Sprite or Tonic, it's a refreshing way to start the night."

Jana is right on the money - and she makes this whole mixology thing sound like fun.  Why not take a look at some basic recipes today, and then experiment with variations until you come up with one that's just right for you?  Whether you're leaning toward a take on the traditional martini, or a fruit-filled number with a tropical twist, a Signature Cocktail can be a great way to break the ice at your upcoming reception!

Recipes:

(adapted from FineLiving.com)

Basic Martini

3.5 oz. Vodka or Gin

.5 oz. Dry Vermouth

Pour ice, Vodka or Gin and vermouth into a shaker. Shake and pour into a martini glass and garnish as desired.

Basic Gin & Tonic

2 oz. Gin

Tonic Water

Pour Gin over ice in a rocks glass. Fill with tonic water and garnish as desired.

A Few Colorful Liqueurs:

Blue Curacao

Flavor: Citrus

Color: Blue

Godiva Liqueur

Flavor: Dark Chocolate (other flavors available)

Color: Chocolate Brown

Kahlua

Flavor: Coffee

Color: Deep Brown

Limoncello

Flavor: Sweet Lemon

Color: Yellow

Midori

Flavor: Melon

Color: Bright Green

PAMA

Flavor: Pomegranate

Color: Deep Red

Razzmatazz (also Chambord)

Flavor: Raspberry 

Color: Red

Bonus: A Fabulous Floral Garnish

Drop one of these beautiful Hibiscus blooms into a cocktail, and listen as guests "ooooh" and "aaaah". The sweet flowers will also add a romantic, rosy glow.