make ahead: memorial day cocktail

[ada]

Since I'm not a huge cocktail drinker, and I'm having company for the holiday, what can I make ahead (besides sangria) that will "wow" my friends. I want to have beer, wine, and only one cocktail as I won't have time to take care of making drinks. I appreciate any suggestions.

[Alcuin]

This might be a good idea: the Gin-Gin Mule.

[KatieLoeb]

Boil up a lemon or lime cordial with sugar, water, fresh juice and microplaned zest of either fruit. You could even add some finely chopped mint or Thai basil as well. Then make lemonade/limeade with the cordial, vodka or gin and seltzer or tonic water. Simple, refreshing, everybody loves it.

Edited May 26, 2008 by KatieLoeb (log)

[Chris Amirault]

Joy of Mixology by our own Gary Regan has a number of bottled cocktail recipes. It's a great book for a number of other reasons as well.

[ada]

So I did what Katie suggested, added mint and blueberry vodka to the cordial, served from large pitchers. It was delicious. Thanks!

[KatieLoeb]

Excellent! Glad that worked out for you.

I'm using my lemon cordial for a Mojito bartending competition. Lemon-Blueberry Mojitos, yum!