Robert’s Perfect Manhattan
Robert’s Perfect Manhattan cocktail is smoky and full-bodied, but isn’t as sweet as most – he uses rye instead of bourbon! To celebrate our anniversary one year, Robert and I visited the Palace Arms restaurant at the Brown Palace Hotel in downtown Denver. Opting to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail in their beautiful lobby, Robert noticed… Read more »
Lemon Ginger Bourbon Cocktail
Lemon Ginger Bourbon Cocktail is an elegant, flavorful drink to serve as the “featured cocktail” at your next gathering. My mom loved bourbon – it was her alcohol of choice in the fall and winter (she drank vodka during the other seasons). I’m more of a vodka girl, but I do like bourbon when it’s… Read more »
Irish Cream Liqueur
Irish Cream Liqueur, most commonly known under the brand name Baileys, is my favorite after dinner drink to pair with dessert – or just drink as dessert! Two of my favorite flavors are chocolate and caramel, and my Irish Cream Liqueur recipe combines both tastes into a delicious drink. This rich, creamy beverage is super… Read more »
Perfect Sidecar Cocktail
A Sidecar is a classic cocktail that dates back to the 1920s, when it was served in the best establishments in both Paris and London. Sidecars are both delicious and deceptively easy to prepare. The keys are (1), using good quality ingredients (no cheap brandy!), and (2) balancing the sweetness (from the brandy and Cointreau)… Read more »
Frozen Brandy Alexander
Robert and I love Frozen Brandy Alexanders – it’s like dessert in a wine (or martini) glass! In fact, we like them so much that we served them in shot glasses at our wedding reception. They are an easy, make ahead drink/dessert that is made with readily available ingredients – perfect for a special celebration…. Read more »
Snowblower Cocktail
I found this recipe in one of mom’s kitchen files, which was surprising, since she wasn’t one for serving specialty cocktails. However, I’m so happy I found it, because it is the perfect warm pick-me-up on a cold winter evening. Cranberry juice and apple cider are steeped in cinnamon and cloves, then topped off with… Read more »
Derby Day Mint Julep
For years, we’ve been in pursuit of the perfect Mint Julep to accompany our Kentucky Derby Day festivities, which are a big deal in the Clayton household as my mom was raised in Louisville. We think this recipe is just right – not too much bourbon, not too sweet and just enough mint. Give it… Read more »
Basil Lemonade
I first tasted this delicious lemonade at a Fourth of July party. The recipe comes from the hostess, Peggy Chandler, who is a fabulous home gourmet. I recently served it at a luncheon in Cincinnati promoting the cookbook, to rave reviews! You can serve it straight, or with vodka.
A delicious Champagne Cocktail
Who needs an excuse to enjoy bubbles? A great alternative to the traditional mimosa, this recipe perfectly complements brunch, special occasion, and of course, New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Red Carpet Martini
The perfect drink to serve for Academy Award viewing!
