Patch Picks: Top 5 New Year's Eve Beverages

As the year comes to a close, many of us will be thinking of what our resolutions will be for next year, but most of us will be ushering 2011 out and 2012 in with a cocktail or two … dozen. Not sure what to drink or serve? No worries, we have some ideas of what to make your guests or yourself to celebrate. This week, Sachem Patch gives you five drinks to enjoy on New Year’s Eve.

Sachem Patch Picks the Top 5 New Year’s Eve Beverages:

1. Flirtini: After that memorable toast at midnight, you can use the extra champagne to stir up some cocktails for your guests. Start with champagne or sparkling wine, add vodka, Cointreau and pineapple juice, pour it in a champagne saucer or flute and top it all with a fresh pineapple slice or spear. Your guests will think you are creative and resourceful.
2. Caramel Apple-Tini: Many different types of apples are still in grocery stores, so this cocktail is perfect for the winter. Combine vodka, butterscotch schnapps and apple liquor with cranberry juice, pour it in a martini glass and top it with a caramel drizzle. You can even slice up a crisp Granny Smith as a tasty garnish.
3. Rogue Beer: This beer is mostly seen in a 22 oz. bottle and can be found in a variety of flavors, including Chocolate Stout, Double Chocolate Stout, Santa’s Private Reserve and Hazelnut Brown, which is especially nutty and delicious for the winter. Pour it in a pilsner glass and make sure you take a peek at the back label as well; there is information about the beer and what to pair it with.
4. Espresso Martini: If you think you will have a hard time staying up all night, take a few swigs of a beverage with an extra dose of caffeine. Mix vodka, cold espresso, Tia Maria and Kahlua Especial to create this eye-opener. Pour it in a martini glass and hope that you can eventually get to sleep after everyone has gone home.
5. Gatsby Red: For those who like to sip their beverages instead of gulp them, this semi-sweet red wine will please your palate. It is mix of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot made by Duck Walk Vineyards on the North Fork of Long Island and can be purchased for around 10 bucks at any local wine shop that sells our local favorites. This wine tastes best in a glass with a round, wide bowl.

Happy New Year!