By now your honey probably thinks you forgot about Valentine’s Day. Which makes it the perfect moment to launch your snuggle attack! But first, you might need to sweet-talk your way out of the doghouse. And who can say no to a lovingly handcrafted cocktail?
Since you’re celebrating your sweetheart and your joint cuddles, champagne is clearly the way to go. The Bloody Good Punch from Winter Cocktails: Mulled Ciders, Hot Toddies, Punches, Pitchers, and Cocktail Party Snacks will put your darling in a bubbly, nuzzly mood. Also, pink!
Happy Valentine’s DIY from Quirk Books!
Bloody Good Punch
a crimson sparkler.
Makes about 12 1 ⁄2 cups (about 3 quarts), serves 24
Bourbon is the smoky backdrop for this champagne-based quencher. Blood orange juice, one of winter’s most stunning offerings, adds tart berrylike notes, and the whole is rounded out by the perfume of almond liqueur.
4 cups bourbon
1 1⁄2 cups Blood Orange Sour Mix (page 128)
cup amaretto or other almond- flavored liqueur
(750-milliliter) bottles champagne, chilled
Ice mold (page 17)
Stir bourbon, sour mix, and amaretto together in a punch or other serving bowl. When ready to serve, stir in champagne and slide in ice mold. Serve.