Chocolate Temptress

If it’s true, absence makes the heart grow fonder, what does absinthe make the heart do? Love causes even the best of us to have delusions. The infamous drink of artists and writers of the 19th century won’t cause you to hallucinate, but will give your cocktail a wonderful blast from the past with modern day style.  Chocolate Temptress - photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Chocolate Temptress

2-1/2 measures Chocolate Vodka

1/2 measure Absinthe

1/2 measure Simple Syrup

Crushed Chocolate Cookie Rim Garnish

Star Anise Floated Garnish

Rim cocktail glass with crushed chocolate cookie crumbs. Set aside. Combine liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into prepared glass. Float star anise garnish on top. Substitution: No cookie crumbles were in site, so I drizzled the inside of the glass with chocolate instead. Chocolate temptress makes a rather tasty drink is small doses.

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2011 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.

Call it Kismet

Perspective, karma and fortuity intertwine within this champagne flute to ultimately dance upon the tip of the tongue.  That’s why it’s Call it Kismet.  Believe in Lady Luck, destiny, hard work or ordinary happenstance.  No matter how you call the future, once in a while everything comes down to the luck of the draw.  Call it Kismet utilizes Heering Cherry liqueur’s deep cherry flavor with subtle chocolate notes then laces in rich coffee and lush vanilla.  While it could have stopped at very simple, Brut Champagne adds the divine intervention of bubbly.

Call it Kismet – created by Cheri Loughlin

Call it Kismet - photo copyright Cheri Loughlin3/4 measure Heering Cherry Liqueur

1/2 measure Kahlua Especial

1/2 measure Navan

Brut Champagne

Cherry Garnish

Combine liqueurs in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to chill. Strain into chilled champagne flute. Top with champagne. Garnish with cherry. Wonderful deeply rich flavor of cherries kissed by hint of chocolate, rounded out by the essence of vanilla.

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2011 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.

Let the Wine & Conversation Flow

For gift giving occasions I usually go in search of interesting wine labels for friends and family members. In past years I’ve given “Fourplay,” “Zinfatuation,” “Ménage a trios,” and any number of wines with labels giving the illusion of seduction for Valentine’s Day. Another year my search led to three easy labels as they sat in wire bins in the ever popular Target family shopping center. Yes, how romantic. Not so much. Then again for what it is worth my opinion of Valentine’s Day is this one special day a year should be multiplied by 365 (with the exception of leap year) and reenacted every day rather than only once a year. Our special someone should know how very special they are without all the stress and pressure Valentine’s Day places upon us to come up with something so extraordinary that says, “I love you,” when in fact it should be spoken each day whether in whispered breathlessness or in raucous outbursts of joyousness. The cynic in me rears her candid head yet again!Monogamy 2 - photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

The three wines I chanced upon for Valentine’s Day were PromisQous, Interlude and Monogamy. Since each remains unopened for the moment, I cannot give a personal opinion on taste. However, in this instance the experience is more about the label as much as Valentine’s Day should be more about the ambiance and thought than the ultimate gift itself. Right?!

PromisQous – Read the label. It’s quite cute. In reference to people, we all come from many backgrounds, likes and dislikes. No matter how many people we ultimately dated, we all eyed a few more than we ever ended up with. Thus, the PromisQous thought or two has passed through many a mind whether carried out in reality or not. How fitting this wine materializes in time for Valentine’s Day. PromisQous is a red table wine blend as it takes from a little of this and that and mixes to become one wine of many samplings.

Interlude – The moment between dating and relationship. The Interlude. It is that time we experience great mental incapacity. Our friends think we have lost a grip on real life. Everything that flows from our tongue seems to speak of our lover and how utterly fascinating and wonderful they happen to be. Nothing in the world could possibly be remotely imperfect about their entire personality…until we reach the state of…

Monogamy. Bland? Plain? Ordinary? Never! According to this label Monogamy means “truly madly deeply.” Could it be so? Of course. Again, as the label plainly states one reaches this point after considering options and discovering likes and dislikes. How fitting Monogamy is a Cabernet Sauvignon which typically contains a deeper, richer more meaningful rounded out feel on the palate; satisfying in a broader sense.

Each of these wines retailed for $10 to $12.  With their witty labeling they are sure to create lots of interesting banter on Valentine’s Day.  Look for these labels or others with creative flair at a liquor store near you.

 Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2011 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.

Silhouette

Fresh berries and sugar free syrups open the playing field up to lower calorie and lower carbohydrate drink recipe options. Muddling fruit just might burn a few extra calories with the little bit of elbow action, too!  Keep this whiskey cocktail lower calorie and delicious easily with minimal effort and fabulous results.Silhouette - photo copyright Cheri Loughlin

Silhouette – adapted by Cheri Loughlin

Origination: Signature cocktail of Eclipse Bars – England

5 Fresh Raspberries

1/2 measure Raspberry Sugar Free Syrup

1 measure Whiskey

1 measure Light Cranberry Juice

1/4 measure Fresh Lime Juice

Mint Leaves & Raspberry Garnish

Muddle raspberries and syrup in mixing glass. Add remaining ingredients with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into rocks glass over crushed ice. Garnish with bruised mint leaves and raspberry. Total approximate calories based upon 1 measure equals 1 ounce: 86 calories

Even though this has slight sugar free taste buried within, the fresh fruit flavor really kicks in and creates quite a tasty treat. Fabulous flavor as is, but since it sits at 86 calories it might be worth the extra 34.5 calories to bump up the whiskey a notch (1-1/2 measure rather than 1 measure), making the total calorie count 120.5.

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2011 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.

Cocoa Camarena

Cocoa warms, sweetens and brings back fond memories of childhood. Add a splash of Camarena Tequila and chocolaty spirited fun begins. Cocoa Camarena’s flavor lingers long on the palate with spectacular layering of sweet spices and tinge of orange. Spectacular as anytime winter warmer, but an extra special treat for holidays or tailgate parties.

Cocoa Camarena – created by Cheri Loughlin

Cocoa Camarena - Cheri Loughlin Cocktail Development Services1-1/4 ounce Camarena Silver Tequila

1 tablespoon Orange Zest

1 Cinnamon Stick

1 teaspoon Whole Cloves

1 teaspoon Whole Allspice

8 ounces Milk

4 tablespoons Sweet Ground Chocolate for Cocoa*

Whipped Cream, Allspice & Orange Zest Garnish

Place orange zest, cinnamon stick, whole cloves and whole allspice in saucepan with milk and chocolate cocoa. Stir continuously while heating mixture on low. Heat until chocolate has dissolved and mixture is steaming. Remove from heat. Add tequila. Stir. Strain into heat proof mug. Top with whipped cream. Dust with allspice powder and pinch of orange zest.

*Hot Cocoa Mix can be used as alternative.

Cocktail Recipe commissioned by Camarena Tequila Representatives

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2012 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.

The Courtesan

This little shot is rather tart, but shoot it fast and you’ll never know the difference!

The Courtesan

The Courtesan - photo copyright Cheri Loughlin1 measure Absinthe

1 measure Southern Comfort

1 measure Lime Juice

Combine liquids in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into chilled shot glass.

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2011 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.

Capetown Coffee

It’s perfectly fine to combine spirit and coconut cream, but this coffee drink makes such an interesting presentation when the coconut cream is placed in a dollop in the bottom of the mug and served as is. Stir the senses and leave mixing to your guest.

Capetown Coffee

Capetown Coffee - photo copyright Cheri Loughlin1-1/2 measure Bourbon or Canadian Whiskey

1 Tablespoon Coconut Cream

Brewed Coffee

Whipped Cream

Place coconut cream in bottom of heat resistant mug. Top with hot coffee, leaving room for whiskey. Stir to dissolve coconut cream. Add whiskey. Garnish with whipped cream.

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2012 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.

Coco de Cacao

My first guess would have been the coconut water would have been buried beneath the rich flavors of rum and crème de cacao. Not so. The nutty freshness of the coconut water shines through with flavorful balance. Coco de Cacao reminds slightly of the White Russian with its mocha tones, but without the creaminess associated with the classic. This is a lovely happy hour drink for winding down the busy work day. Perhaps it would also pair nicely with chocolate covered espresso beans.

Coco de Cacao

Coco de Cacao - photocopyright Cheri Loughlin1 measure Coconut Water

1 measure Dark Rum

1 measure Crème de Cacao

Combine liquids in large rocks glass over ice. Stir.

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2012 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.

Hot Buttered Rum

January 17 is Hot Buttered Rum Day. In honor of such a day and the freezing temperatures outside it is only appropriate to turn to The Modern Mixologist, Tony Abu Ganim and Mount Gay Rum for suggestions.

Tony may be found at www.themodernmixologist.com where recipes abound, upcoming events are published and you will find several articles and links sources for the professional and home bartender. There is so much more to see on Tony’s site. Be sure to check it out.

Hot Buttered Rum

1 pound Light Brown Sugar

16 tablespoons (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter – Room Temperature

2 teaspoons Cinnamon

Freshly Grated Nutmeg

1 to 2 teaspoons Allspice

2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract

For each drink:

1-1/2 ounces Rum

Boiling water, as needed

For the batter: Beat together the brown sugar, butter, spices and vanilla extract until well combined. Refrigerate in an airtight resealable container until ready to use.

For Each drink: Combine 2 heaping tablespoons of the batter and the rum in a warmed coffee mug. Add boiling water to fill to the top, and mix well. Serve with a spoon.

*Note: This must be served steaming hot, not lukewarm. It is best to make the batter in advance so the spices have an opportunity to mingle. Be sure to remove the batter from the refrigerator at least 6 hours before serving to allow it to soften. The recipe for the batter makes enough for 10 to 12 servings; refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 month, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Recipe courtesy of The Baddish Group representing Mount Gay Eclipse Rum.

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2012 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.

Mai Tai Teenie

Cutting back on calories or carbohydrate intake does not mean giving up flavor in a cocktail or sticking with the usual diet soda and base spirit. Creativity is the order of the day. Even classic cocktail recipes can be converted into tasty treats for those watching their weight or just minding their sugar intake. The tropical Mai Tai drink recipe is a favorite summer thirst quencher for many, but can be enjoyed year round. A few minor adjustments to this classic drink recipe will keep you in that teeny bikini long past summer season.

Mai Tai Teenie – created by Cheri Loughlin

Mai Tai Teenie - photo copyright Cheri LoughlinInspired by the classic Mai Tai

1 – 2 ounce chunk Fresh Pineapple (cut up)

1 ounce Rum

1-1/2 ounce Orange Juice

1/8 Lime Wedge – Squeezed

1/8 ounce Orgeat Syrup

Muddle fresh pineapple with lime juice and Orgeat Syrup in a mixing glass. Add ice, rum and orange juice. Shake to blend and chill. Strain into a large rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with thin slice of fresh pineapple if desired (but the calories and carbs are not added into this drink total).  Approximate Total calories: 127 Total carbohydrates: 15.8

For more authentic classic Mai Tai recipe feel, splurge for the extra 34 calories and float dark rum over the top (total calorie count: 161 Total carbohydrates approximately 16.8).

Cheri Loughlin is a leading cocktail and photography resource for beverage companies, event planners, businesses and individuals. High resolution cocktail and beverage stock photography images are available in downloadable digital format in the newly redesigned Stock Photography Gallery at www.cheriloughlin.com.

Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon – str8upcocktails @ gmail.com – ©2011 Cheri Loughlin-The Intoxicologist, All Rights Reserved. All opinions, reviews and spirits’ coverage are the personal opinion and decision of Cheri Loughlin.