Nye Drink Recipes

I absolutely love this cocktail because it’s the perfect blend of elegance and fun, with the effervescence of the Champagne complementing the bold flavors of pomegranate and orange liqueur. Plus, crafting and sharing this vibrant drink with friends makes every gathering feel like a celebration, complete with festive garnishes that add a charming touch.

I love making celebratory drinks that capture the spirit of festivity. My favorite cocktail for New Year’s Eve is a mix of crisp Champagne and the bright, snappy flavors of pomegranate juice and orange liqueur.

I think the vodka adds a smooth element, but the real star of the drink is the pomegranate. I think it is one of the most beautiful fruits in the world and a delicious source of juice.

Ingredients

Chamapgne/ Sparkling Wine:
Imparts graceful bubbles and a festively luxurious touch.

Pomegranate Juice:
Delivers a flavor that’s sweet and tart and a superabundance of antioxidants.

Orange Liqueur:
Injects a drink with a citrusy sweetness and depth.

Vodka:
Contributes strength and a neutral base that permits other flavors to shine.

Pomegranate Seeds:
Provide a visually appealing crunch with a super succulent, juicy bite.

Orange Slices:
Provide a new citrus aroma and garnish effect.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 bottle of your favorite Champagne or sparkling wine, chilled
• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/2 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
• 1/4 cup vodka
• Pomegranate seeds for garnish
• Orange slices for garnish
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Fill a large pitcher with ice cubes halfway to help chill the mixture while you prepare it.

2. Add the 1/2 cup of pomegranate juice to the pitcher, over the ice.

3. Pour in the 1/2 cup of orange liqueur into the pitcher and give it a slight stir with a long spoon.

4. Pour 1/4 cup of vodka into the pitcher and stir gently to combine the liquids.

5. Very slowly add the chilled Champagne or sparkling wine to the pitcher. Pour with care to preserve the bubbles and avoid overflow.

6. Gently stir the mixture so that all ingredients are well combined and the mixture still has the effervescence of the sparkling wine.

7. Set up the glasses by adding a small number of pomegranate seeds to the bottoms of each glass. These seeds will serve as a garnish.

8. Fill each glass with the cocktail mixture so that it is almost to the top, allowing the liquid to mix well within the glass.

9. Place an orange slice on the rim of each glass for a vibrant garnish.

10. Serve promptly, relishing in the revitalizing and celebratory beverage with loved ones.

Equipment Needed

1. Large pitcher
2. Long spoon
3. Measuring cups
4. Glasses for serving
5. Knife (for slicing orange)
6. Cutting board
7. Refrigerator (for chilling Champagne or sparkling wine)

FAQ

• Can I use a non-alcoholic substitute for Champagne?Substitutes include sparkling apple cider or non-alcoholic sparkling wine.
• What is the best way to chill the Champagne?Put the bottle in an ice bucket that has ice and water in it and let it sit for around 20 minutes or put it in the refrigerator for a number of hours.
• Can I prepare this drink in advance?All ingredients, except the Champagne and garnishes, should be combined well in advance. The Champagne and the garnishes should be added just before serving.
• Is there an alternative to pomegranate seeds for garnish?Raspberries or strawberries can provide a colorful and festive alternative for garnish.
• Can I adjust the alcohol content?Yes, if you’re looking to cut down on alcohol, think about using less vodka or picking a lower-proof orange liqueur.
• How should I serve this cocktail?Pour into Champagne flutes or into tall glasses over a few ice cubes for a festive presentation.
• Is fresh pomegranate juice necessary?Though fresh pomegranate juice is delightful, juice bought from the store works just as well for this recipe.

Substitutions and Variations

1/2 cup cranberry juice instead of pomegranate juice.
1/2 cup triple sec instead of orange liqueur
1/4 cup of white rum in place of vodka
Raspberries that are freshly picked for use as garnishes in lieu of pomegranate seeds.

Pro Tips

1. Chill All Ingredients Except Ice Make sure to chill all your ingredients, including the pomegranate juice, orange liqueur, and vodka in advance. This will help maintain the effervescence of the Champagne and ensure a refreshing, cold drink.

2. Use Fresh Pomegranate Seeds For an extra burst of flavor and a fresh texture, use fresh pomegranate seeds as a garnish. They will also add a beautiful visual appeal to your cocktail.

3. Select a High-Quality Sparkling Wine The choice of Champagne or sparkling wine will significantly impact the flavor. Choose a bottle that you enjoy drinking on its own, as it forms the base of the cocktail.

4. Avoid Over-Stirring When you combine the sparkling wine with the rest of the ingredients, gently stir just enough to mix them. Over-stirring can cause the sparkling wine to lose its bubbles quickly.

5. Customize Sweetness If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, consider adding a touch of simple syrup to the mix. Taste as you go to find the right balance without overpowering the natural flavors.