Let’s Get Blitzen: Cocktail Advent Calendar features the most spirited cocktail yet, the Mae Rose. Don’t let her pretty pallor and fruity scent fool you, this drink packs a wallop.
This is a solid 3.5-ounce cocktail is somewhere between a martini and a negroni and requires some seriously slow sipping and an ice-cold coupe glass.
The grapefruit liqueur used here is nectar of the gods. If you taste it on its own, it has the perfect, authentic grapefruit flavour without any of the cloying sweetness that you can sometimes find in liqueurs.
This is a great cocktail to enjoy with some snacks after a long day of Christmas shopping. How is that going by the way, your Christmas shopping?
I know it’s only December 5th but I’m feeling a little bit behind the 8-ball. I found something perfect for my mom that I think she’ll be quite pleased with. Still need to get some things for my Dad and a few of my friends.
In some cases, I know what I’m going to pick up, in others, I’m at a bit of a loss and am waiting for inspiration to strike. I pride myself on being a thoughtful gift-giver and coming up with a bespoke “I listen when you talk” present for everyone on my list.
That being said, I always find there are some people who are harder to shop for than others. You know the ones, you take a chance on something that you think they’ll like and then you watch with nervous anticipation as they unwrap their gift, studying their face for the slightest micro expression that might belie disappointment.
I’m hoping that I’ll be able to hit it out of the park this year with well-considered gifts for everyone on my list. I’m partial to giving experiential gifts where I can. The opportunity to do an activity or do something, preferably together, that you both love.
If you’re both craft beer lovers, a Brew Donkey tour is a great way to discover the local microbreweries throughout the National Capital Region. Or maybe you’re into cooking and want to try a class at The Urban Element. If they’re a thrill seeker, maybe dog-sledding or bungee jumping would be more appropriate.
I’d love to hear about the greatest gift you’ve ever given or received in the comments below.
Happy shopping!
Mae Rose
- 1½ ounces London dry gin
- 1 ounce dry vermouth
- ½ ounce Campari
- ½ ounce grapefruit liqueur
- Grapefruit twist for serving
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Combine gin, vermouth, Campari, and grapefruit liqueur in a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Stir until shaker is frosty, about 30 seconds. Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a grapefruit twist.
Recipe from: Richard, Garret. "Mae Rose Cocktail" Bon Appetit. January 2015.
Yum, yum, yummy!