I’m a vodka girl.  I’d say any of us that imbibe whether frequently or not have a go to favorite spirit. Mine happens to be vodka. Was it due to years of being exposed to the incredible James Bond films and his signature “Shaken not stirred” martinis? Maybe. No matter where the taste came from I am a sucker for ordering and trying new martinis wherever I go.

This year one of the best creations I came across was in New York City this December at the Refinery Rooftop. A great rooftop space with incredible ambiance and amazing views of the Manhattan Skyline.  The natural lighting, décor, and friendly atmosphere made it a great stop for our Friday afternoon cocktailing.  The drink we ordered was called Pom-ises Pom-ises.
It was served in a beautiful copper martini glass. With a little google research with new friends I met at the corner of the bar, we found the exact glasses on Amazon.com along with some more affordable options as well.   Here is my recreation of the drink.

Pomegranate Martini
1 3/4 to 2oz Vodka  (Tito’s or your favorite brand or even an already infused pomegranate vodka. I do Tito’s as it is gluten-free)
1/2oz Pomegranate Juice (POM or Simple Truth brands are great options and easy to find at your local super store)
1/3oz Orange liqueur
Fresh lime juice

Garnish:
Slice of Lime

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice
Shake and strain into a copper martini glass or glass of choosing
Garnish with Lime slice

Summer time, fun time!  Summer weather is always great for family and friend gatherings whether in the backyard, pool side, or at the beach.  It’s been a ritual of mine for years with my close friends to take turns hosting parties at each other’s homes.  The host house for the event typically provides the main dishes, while everyone else brings the sides, desserts, and beverages.  That’s exactly how this Saturday went.

A fellow travel colleague, wonderful cook, and entertainer,  organized a get-together at her home. My contribution to the even was the all important cocktail.  After hearing all the lovely healthy salads, desserts, and appetizers that were making center stage, I opted to bring a light and summer feeling thirst quencher.  The drink I made was inspired by something I’d come across in an old “Cooking Light” cookbook from 2006.

Anyway, I felt like we needed something light and refreshing to go with our healthy fare and ninety degree temperatures.  This fun red drink, was the delight of the party.  Simple and easy to make, plus easily adaptable to different tastes it will make a great addition to your next summer gathering.

Red Sparkler
Ingredients:
12 cups Cran-Raspberry Juice  ( I used Walmart’s Great Value Brand)
8 Tbsp fresh squeezed lime juice with pulp
2 bottles pink brut champagne
6 or so fresh limes for slicing
In a gallon size pitcher together juices. Stir well. Set aside and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Slice limes and put a notch in one side to be able to set on rim of glass.

When ready to drink.  Place a few cubes of ice in your glass. Fill about half-way or so with the juice mix.  Top off with the pink champagne.  Adjust portions to your taste. Garnish with lime.

Makes about 24 servings, depending on portion and glass size

Options:
For non-alcoholic, substitute club soda
For more of a spritzer, use white wine and a bit of club soda
For more of a kick, add a shot or two of vodka. My preference is Tito’s

For fun, make ice cubes with blueberries or raspberries frozen in them. Or use the berries on a skewer for garnish.

The simple juice mix that can be made ahead is so versatile. Play with it and see what type of sparkler you come up with.

Be sure to share with me in the comments below, so I can give it a drink.

Cheers!