Valentine Drinks: Cosmopolitans two ways Cosmopolitan Cocktail or Champagne Cosmopolitan I love Martinis. For Valentine's Day I'd happily choose a pink version of the Martini - The Cosmopolitan. But, my wife would prefer a Champagne Cosmopolitan. Which version do you think we'll be drinking? Here's my favorite recipe for a Cosmopolitan: Cosmopolitan INGREDIENTS 8 ounces (1 cup) vodka 3 ounces (1/3 cup) triple sec or cointreau 3 ounces (1/3 cup) cranberry juice cocktail 3 ounces freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 large or 2 small lemons) 4 2-inch lemon peels/twists PREPARATIONPour all ingredients except lemon peels into a pitcher.Fill a large cocktail shaker 1/4 full with ice. Pour approximately 1/2 of the mixture (two servings) into the shaker. Shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. It's important to have a well-chilled drink. Then strain into martini glasses and add lemon twist garnish. Note: I like to chill my glasses. I put them in the freezer or stick them in an ice bucket ahead of time.Here's my wife's favorite Valentine's drink, the Champagne Cosmopolitan: Champagne Cosmopolitan INGREDIENTS 8 ounces Cointreau or Triple Sec (Grand Marnier will also do nicely) 8 ounces cranberry juice cocktail 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 tablespoons fine or extrafine granulated sugar 4 cups chilled Champagne or other sparkling wine PREPARATIONStir together Cointreau, juices, and sugar and chill, covered, 2 to 6 hours. Fill 2/3 of champagne flutes with the mixture, and top off with Champagne to serve.Serves 6-8. Choose your favorite and enjoy a special Valentine's Day.
