Signature Cocktail Inspiration - The Perfect Champagne Cocktail

Photo Credit: Tia & Claire Studios

In my opinion, it's not a party until you hear a champagne bottle pop.

As a wedding planner, I always advise clients to make at least one of their signature cocktails a champagne cocktail. To me, it's just a touch of simple glamour and elegance made easy. There is something regal about seeing silver trays filled with gorgeous crystal flutes being passed around to guests during a reception.

When we design signature cocktails for clients, we always elevate it a notch by adding something special to enhance it. In the image above, we loved adding a special sprig of fresh lavender to a glass of Schramsberg Blanc de Blanc from our Calistoga Ranch wedding last December.

Looking for the perfect the perfect champagne cocktail? Try one of our favorites below.

Lavender Champagne Cocktail:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of Lavender infused simple syrup
- 7 ounces of ice chilled champagne, sparkling wine or Presecco

In a beautiful crystal flute, add Lavender infused simple syrup followed by your choice of bubbles. Place one fresh sprig of Lavender stem first into each flute. Voila!

Cheers,
Simone

A Signature Cocktail Inspiration - Champagne Julep

Photo by Katie Stoops

Signature cocktails are a big part of any cocktail hour and selecting the right one entails more than just than picking your favorite liquor. If you are planning your wedding, then you know its all about the details...including your signature cocktail.

When selecting what you want to serve your guests, think about a few things -

1) What time of year is it? If it's in the summer months and weather is hot, try and select something refreshing and easy to drink.

2) What is seasonal and fresh? It's always important to select a cocktail that can incorporate the amazing produce that's available in the surrounding area. It matches both the region you're hosting the wedding in and also adds a delicious and original twist to a common beverage.

3) Presentation. Again, it's all about the details and you want it to look beautiful. Speak with your caterers about the best possible presentation and start looking at crystal stemware, cute mason jars or cocktail glasses that will wow your guests. Also, don't forget how they are served. Many caterers employ bartenders who can show a little showmanship. Also, if it's a fancy affair, pretty vintage or silver trays for passed service will elevate the formality of the presentation.

I fell in love with this Champagne Mint Julep (pictured above) signature cocktail. Nothings says "celebration" like champagne, and with a twist of Gin and some mint in beautiful crystal, it's just superb.

1940's Champagne Julep:
1/2 ounce Simple Syrup
2 ounces chilled Champagne
4 torn mint leaves
Dash of Angostura Bitter
Ice cubes and crushed ice 
1 ounce fino sherry
1/4 ounce fresh lemon juice  

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add the mint, bitters, sherry, Simple Syrup and lemon juice and shake well. Strain into a flute half-filled with crushed ice and top with the Champagne.

Enjoy!

~ simone