Southern Protocol

Vodka. It’s the happy hour drink of choice here at Southern Protocol. Did we realize everyone knew that? Not necessarily… which is why we were curiously delighted at the email we received this morning from a mystery New York company outlining three (quite tasty looking) drink recipes, all using Van Gogh Vodka. We’re not selfish people, so we decided to share!

These drinks are perfect for late summer fetes… they can be made ahead of time, and are fun updates on tried and true warm weather classics!

Blueberry Mojito (you know I love my mojitos!)
28 oz Van Gogh Acai-Blueberry Vodka
14 oz fresh lime juice
7 oz simple syrup
Mint leaves
Fresh blueberries
Club soda

Muddle mint leaves, blueberries, and simple syrup in a pitcher. Stir in Van Gogh Acai-Blueberry Vodka and lime juice. Then add ice and top with club soda. Serve in a highball glass garnished with a mint sprig or skewer of blueberries.

Sparkling Dutch Red Sangria
1 bottle dry red wine
3 oz Triple Sec Liqueur
3 oz Van Gogh Pomegranate Vodka
6 oz Grenadine
1/2 Bottle pomegranate juice
1/2 bottle Pommery Brut Royal Champagne
1 orange, sliced
Cinnamon sticks

Combine the first five ingredients. Add champagne and give a quick stir. Pour mixture over ice and add slices of orange. Garnish each glass with a cinnamon stick.

(I just realized this last recipe isn’t made with vodka… oh well! It still sounds nice and refreshing!)

Early Riser
19 oz Ron Abuelo Anejo
6 oz Jumbie Coconut Splash
13 oz fresh mango juice
13 oz fresh pineapple juice
Maraschino cherries
Orange slices
Sugar cane stick

Pour all ingredients into a pitcher and stir vigorously.  Add ice, cherries and orange slices. To serve, pour into a tall glass and garnish with sugar cane stick.

All recipes came our way via Talbert Communications, Ltd in New York. Cheers!

I know we’ve already done the Cocktail of the Month, but I ran across this picture-perfect cocktail on a Southern Protocol favorite website, Glam.com. How absolutely hilarious are those bow ties?! Instead of grabbing the same old-same old bottle of wine this Sunday night, try this much more festive option and you’ll really impress your guests.

Gold Dusted Black Licorice Martini
2 parts vanilla vodka
1 part Black Sambuca

Shake with lots of ice, strain. Garnish with black licorice and gold dust (which can be found at any craft store in the baking section). And of course you HAVE to decorate them with the black bows, which can also be found at any craft store. Cheers!