Fall Robust Flavors
By Cindy Adams
Thanksgiving is such a wonderful time for feasting, celebrating, and indulging in delicious appetizers, entrees and cocktails. In general, a traditional meal features robust flavors that are fun to compliment with creative cocktail pairings.
A favorite combination I found for fall is pumpkins, apples, pears, and ginger, with some sage and thyme added in. Start with Pear & Brie Skewers for an appetizer while sipping a Bourbon Pear Spritzer, then try Pumpkin Gnocchi, and end with Brown Butter Apple Pear Pie. Enjoy baking!
Holidays tend to involve some effervescent fun. One of my favorite combinations is ginger and pear, so we thought it would be fun to make spritzers to get into the holiday spirit. This sparkling bourbon pear cocktail is easy to make and will be perfect for any holiday celebration.
INGREDIENTS:
Ginger Sage Simple Syrup
Equal parts water to sugar (1 cup of each)
5 cubes of frozen ginger or add fresh ginger
4 – 5 sage leaves
Bourbon Pear Spritzer
1 1⁄2 oz bourbon
2 oz fresh pear juice
2 oz ginger ale
1 tbsp ginger sage simple syrup
Pear & sage leaves (for a garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Ginger Sage Simple Syrup
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat, until simmering. Be sure to continually whisk until the sugar is dissolved. Once combined and simmering, remove from heat and let it sit for 5-10 mins for the flavors to absorb.
Strain and store in a class jar until you’re ready to use.
Fill a glass with ice and mix in bourbon, pear juice, ginger ale, and ginger sage simple syrup.
Serve with a beautiful pear garnish and sprigs of sage.
