From time to time I really enjoy a good cocktail. After a long day on the job a great drink can quickly bridge the transition from a work frame of mind to relaxation and enjoyment.  Cocktails are also a wonderful alternative drink with appetizers or even a main course.

While work is a hoot, enjoying a nice wine or a delicious cocktail with friends and/or family makes for those extra special moments to remember.

Since I was in my late teens growing up in Europe I have not only enjoyed a good cocktail but have also tinkered with new ideas and my own concoctions. To this day I try new combinations and some end up being quite good.

Here are some of my latest cocktail inventions and I am interested in your feedback after you have tried these drinks.  Cheers!

Email your comments

 Ingredients:
 Yazi Ginger Flavored Vodka 1.5 oz. to 2 oz.
 Charbay Blood Orange Flavored Vodka 2 oz.
 Juice of a fresh lime (half a lime per drink)

 Combine almost equal parts of Yazi Ginger flavored
 Vodka with Charbay Blood Orange flavored Vodka
 in a shaker with ice (depending on individual taste).
 Squeeze in the juice of half a fresh lime. Shake
 vigorously and strain into a martini glass.  Garnish
 as you wish for additional visual appeal.

 The Blood Orange Dragon martini is great by itself or with sushi, fresh oysters,
 or other fresh shell fish.

 Having experimented with this martini for many months now I find it is best served
 with the exact ingredients described.  Substitutes have not been up to the task,
 although you can change the ratio if you prefer less ginger or less blood orange. 
 Yazi is distilled in Oregon and Charbay is distilled in California.  GOT SUSHI?

The Blushing Red Head
A Campari, Vodka, Pineau des Charentes and Tonic long drink.

In a highball glass add some ice and combine 1.5 oz Campari with 1.5 oz Pineau des Charentes, and 1 oz. Vodka and add in the juice of half a lime. Mix well.  Fill the glass up with tonic water and voila you have a playful interaction between sweet and sour with a refreshing twist.

 In a cocktail shaker combine the following ingredients:
 Ice
 3 oz. Don Nacho Reposado Tequila
 ½ oz. Kalani Mexican Coconut Liqueur
 ½ oz. Grand Marnier
 the juice of one lime and a splash of pineapple juice.   Shake well and strain into an old fashioned or similar short glass with ice.