I have been working on pairing different flavors with sparkling wine - in this case Casa de Valor Cava. My first thought was to go with citrus since I love the classic French 75.
Other drinks that I love that are sparkling include St. Germaine, Pama pomegranate liqueur, Kir Royale, bellini, and basically anything with a good sparkling wine. Cavas are a great alternative to spending $40 and up on Champagne as is prosecco and some of the California sparklings, but that said there great french sparklings in the $25 and under range.
First attempt, 7 oz. cava, .75 oz Gran Marnier - not so great but ok needs sweetener. Add .5 agave nectar - better still not great. Add dash of Ango bitters - pretty good.
Second attempt, I wanted to go for something with some spice - cinnamon was my first thought. Ginger liqueur was thrown in for good measure. results still pending.
If you're curious about these drinks, leave me a comment.
French 75
- Start with a shaker and some ice
- Add 1.5 oz of gin (london dry is fine), .75 oz of fresh lemon juice, . 5 oz of simple syrup (can substitute granular sugar)
- shake and strain into a flute
- top with cava and garnish with a lemon twist