Despite all the festive holiday toasting that was going on just a short month ago, I usually think of tall sparkling drinks, served in flutes and/or tumblers, as summery – refreshing and ideal for hot weather.
But here’s a surprise: A lovely sparkler that will carry you through the bleak winter and right on into spring. Far from a basic glass of champagne – not bad thing itself, of course – this one combines bubbly with apple brandy, elderflower liqueur, woody bitters, and nutmeg (of all things!).
The assortment of ingredients here, along with the bitters, make for a rich, layered drink. It goes down smoothy, warms you up, and never fails to entertain. There’s a lot going on, so sip slowly and thoughtfully, and feel the glow.
Long Hello
.75 oz apple brandy – I’m using Laird’s Applejack here
.75 oz St. Germain elderflower liqueur
A dash of wood-flavored bitters – I’m using Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters because that’s what I had on the shelf at the moment, but there are lots of other choices.
Bubbly on top – can be champagne, cava, or prosecco as long as it’s dry
A pinch of nutmeg as garnish
Combine the brandy, liqueur, and bitters in a glass and stir with ice. Strain into a flute or cocktail glass and top with the bubbly. Add a small pinch of nutmeg on top.