10, 9, 8, 7... Here comes 2014! Are you ready for the countdown? We've rounded up a couple of top-notch cocktail recipes that would be perfect for any New Year's Eve celebration. Whether you're planning an over-the-top soiree or an intimate night in, these drinks will have you covered when it comes time to toast the new year. So, raise your glass and ring it in! Spiced Cranberry Spritzers (Recipe yields 6 spritzers) Ingredients: 2/3 cup pure unsweetened cranberry juice (not juice cocktail) 1/2 cup granulated sugar 4 whole star anise 12 whole allspice 750 mL bottle Prosecco or dry white sparkling wine 12 ounces club soda fresh cranberries and star anise, for garnish (optional) Directions: In a small saucepan, combine cranberry juice, sugar, star anise, and allspice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat; cover and let steep for 15 minutes. Transfer to heatproof container, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 3 days, until ready to use. Pour chilled cranberry syrup into a large pitcher. Carefully pour in Prosecco down the side of the pitcher (which will preserve the bubbles), and gently stir until combined. Fill glasses with ice. Pour cranberry/Prosecco mixture over ice, top with club soda to taste. Garnish with fresh cranberries and star anise for a festive look. Cheers! Recipe adapted from Love & Olive Oil Get the look... DwellStudio by Global Views Gold Ribbons Drinking Glass Global Views Sleek Deco Tray (Check out more fabulous barware by Global Views HERE!) Winter Pear Martini (Recipe yields 1 martini) Ingredients: 1/4 Asian pear, cubed 3 whole green cardamom, pods discarded and seeds lightly crushed 1/2 oz lemon juice 1-1/2 oz good quality vodka 3/4 oz pear liqueur 1/4 oz Clear Creek Distillery Douglas Fir Eau de Vie 1 pear wheel and rosemary sprig, for garnish (optional) Directions: Combine pear cubes and cardamom seeds in the bottom of a mixing glass. Add lemon juice and muddle well to fully combine and break down the pear. Next add in ice about 2/3 up the way of the mixing glass. Pour in vodka, pear liqueur, and fir eau de vie. Shake to fully combine, about 20 seconds. Double strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Top with a pear wheel skewered with rosemary sprig and enjoy! Recipe adapted from Stir and Strain Get the look... Studio A Lab Martini Glasses Studio A Champagne Silver Leaf Tray (Find more fabulous Studio A barware HERE!)
