Friday, February 8, 2013

Toast Your Sweetheart! "Opposites Attract" Valentine's Cocktail The 10-Minute Happy Hour

2013-02-08-OppositesCocktail.jpgWhen it comes to pairing food and drinks, there are three basic elements: complementing, contrasting and bridging. In relationships you could say the same. It's the contrast, though, that can create the fireworks and often the passion. With the "Hallmark holiday" around the corner I set out to find a sexy cocktail suitable for toasting your sweetheart, but also one perfect for any happy hour in 10-minutes' time.

2013-02-08-OppositesCocktail2.jpgWhile gearing up for the weekend, I came across this bottle of Little Black Dress Vodka. It just made me think of wearing my little black dress out for girl's night or a romantic evening in. I've been a little leery of all the flavored booze these days, but this one, black cherry and vanilla, seemed to be just what I was craving. Once home, I found it was yummy simply served chilled, but pairing it with an opposite and contrasting flavor made it even more fun to sip.

For this week's 10-minute happy hour, I've found two opposites that most definitely attract. The bitter Campari and this sweet-black cherry and vanilla flavored vodka, turned out to be a dream team in the shaker. Invite some friends over tonight, pour up a few, and toast the week's end. Or file this one away for the perfect Valentine's Day cocktail. It's a sexy red sip perfect for any date night, especially Valentine's Day. Pour it alongside a heart-shaped box of chocolates, and you're guaranteed a very romantic happy hour in no time.

Opposites Attract Cocktail Recipe

Makes 1 drink

2 ounces Black Cherry Vanilla Vodka, by Little Black Dress
1 ounce Campari
1/2 ounce sweet vermouth
Maraschino cherry for garnish

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice combine the Cherry Vanilla Vodka, the Campari and the sweet vermouth. Stir until well chilled.

Place a maraschino cherry into a chilled martini glass. Strain the cocktail into the martini glass and drink!

Maureen C. Petrosky writes what she knows, food, booze and parties. Author of The Wine Club, she appears regularly on The TODAY show to share her vices, and advice with the world. For more info check out www.maureenpetrosky.com or follow her on twitter @maureenpetrosky

(Images: Maureen Petrosky)


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