Fizzy Gin and Lillet Punch

We threw a little shindig today to say goodbye to SE Ad Sales Director Erin Adamo. I mixed up this bubbly punch—it's a good brunch or predinner drink: a little tart, a little sweet, and a little more complex than you'd expect.

Apricot Rhyme

Rye plus thyme (rhyme, get it?). This cocktail from Ryan Gannon of The Spotted Pig is herbal on the nose, more fruit-forward on the finish.

Beretta's Pamplemousse

We're always a bit wary of elderflower liqueur, but it doesn't take over in this supremely balanced and fresh-tasting gin cocktail, a signature brunch drink at Beretta in San Francisco.

Fog Cutter

The Bay Area's best food & drink bloggers have recently lauded the Fog Cutter, and with good reason: it's a delicate, fruity blend of several spirits and juices. Be forewarned: it packs a punch.

Bourbon Renewal Cocktail

This recipe comes from Jeffrey Morgenthaler of Portland's Clyde Common. Sweet crème de cassis mixes with oaky bourbon to produce a delicious take on the classic whiskey sour.

Buena Vista Fizz

You wouldn't think that citrus and coffee would go together, but we absolutely love this cocktail from Tradition in San Francisco, which brings together Jameson and chicory-infused rye whiskey.

Gramercy Tavern's Goodfellow

This simple-looking cocktail from Gramercy Tavern's fall lineup boasts a surprisingly complex flavor profile. The elegantly layered drink mixes belly-warming Scotch with slightly sweet pear liqueur, plus nutty walnut liqueur and Oloroso sherry.

Morning Glory Cocktail

As I mentioned in my hangover helper post on Wednesday, the hair of the dog has long been considered an effective means of treating this kind of self-inflicted wound. Here's an 1887 version of a morning fog cutter, from that year's edition of Jerry Thomas' Bar-Tender's Guide: the Morning Glory Cocktail.

Blood Orange Flip

Lately one of my favorite ways to use blood orange juice is with whiskey. Both ingredients have a certain amount of sweetness, but the citrusy sourness of the blood orange helps liven up the richness of whiskey. Looking to add a little depth to the cocktail, I added a hint of honey syrup.

Martinez Cocktail

The Martinez starts with equal parts gin and sweet vermouth, and this alone distinguishes it from the modern martini. You then add a teaspoon of maraschino liqueur and either Angostura or orange bitters.