There is just something festive about the fizzy flavor of champagne. It is no wonder that it is such a popular drink during the holidays. Popping the cork and sharing a glass with friends is a great way to ring in the New Year. Note that I said “a glass,” because I have found that too much champagne is a quick way to ruin your temperament the following day!

When I have guests over for New Year’s Eve I like to mix up a batch of classic champagne cocktails. It is fun and somewhat nostalgic, perfect for sending off the old and welcoming the new.

Ingredients

  • chilled champagne
  • cognac
  • sugar cubes
  • lemon wedges
  • Angostura bitters available at any liquor store
  • orange slices for garnish

Instructions

  1. To mix one cocktail, drop a single sugar cube into a chilled champagne flute. Add 2 dashes of the Angostura bitters. Angostura bitters is a blend of herbs and tropical spices developed in 1824 by the Venezuelan Surgeon General at the time, Dr. Johann Siegert. Although it sounds exotic you can find it at any liquor store.
  2. Allow the sugar cube to soak up some of the bitters and then add 3 ounces of champagne and 1/3 ounce of cognac.
  3. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon wedge and garnish with a slice of orange.
  4. Serve cold with a warm toast to the New Year!