For this final post of 2024, I am offering a twist on a classic drink. Many in our circle of family & friends enjoy Old-Fashioned Cocktails. After making versions of them for a few years now, I just recently investigated the creation and history of the libation.
In the early 1800s, the potent concoction of a spirit, bitters, water, and sugar was created. Referred to as a “bittered sling”, the liquor used at that time was rum, gin, or whiskey. Rye and bourbon became the spirits of choice in the 1880s.
This riff on the traditional old-fashioned will be ringing in 2025 for us. Brandy is the base spirit used here. We tested this cocktail with a few different bitters, including Angostura and orange bitters, but the cocktail seasoning we liked best was cherry vanilla bitters. The topping off with Champagne turns this into a celebratory libation for the New Year. Garnishing the cocktail with a sprig of rosemary and some cranberries is a festive touch for the occasion!
Brandy & Bitters Champagne Cocktail
Brandy & Bitters Champagne Cocktail (adapted from tasteofhome.com)
Total Time Required: 5 minutes, Makes: 1 serving
Ingredients:
- 1 sugar cube
- 4 – 6 dashes cherry vanilla bitters
- 1/2 ounce brandy
- 1/2 cup chilled Champagne
- fresh rosemary sprig and fresh or frozen cranberries for garnish
Directions:
Place the sugar cube in a champagne flute and sprinkle it with the bitters.
Sprinkle the sugar cube with the bitters.
Add the brandy to the glass.
Add the brandy to the glass.
Top the brandy with the champagne. Garnish the cocktail with a rosemary sprig and a few cranberries.
Top the cocktail with Champagne and add the garnish.
Serve immediately.
Serve immediately.
Happy New Year! ~Linda
Brandy & Bitters Champagne Cocktail (adapted from tasteofhome.com) Total Time Required: 5 minutes, Makes: 1 serving
Ingredients:
- 1 sugar cube
- 4 – 6 dashes cherry vanilla bitters
- 1/2 ounce brandy
- 1/2 cup chilled Champagne
- fresh rosemary sprig and fresh or frozen cranberries for garnish
Directions:
Place the sugar cube in a champagne flute and sprinkle it with the bitters. Add the brandy to the glass. Top it with the champagne. Garnish the cocktail with a rosemary sprig and a few cranberries. Serve immediately.