Welcome to the ultimate way to indulge in Prosecco cocktails! Our carefully curated Prosecco Gift Set brings together the sophisticated flavours of the Spagliato, Old Pal, and Boulevardier cocktails.
Each cocktail is a tribute to timeless elegance, offering unique twists on classic recipes. Let's dive into what makes this cocktail box your next must-have for any celebration, gathering, or quiet evening at home.
What’s Inside the Prosecco Cocktail Box
Our Prosecco Cocktail Box includes high-quality ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. Here's what you'll find inside:
Box Contents
- Prosecco: 2 x 200 ml
- Campari: 2 x 60 ml
- Sweet Vermouth: 1 x 50 ml
- Dry Vermouth: 1 x 60 ml
- Whiskey: 1 x 60 ml
- Bourbon: 1 x 60 ml
Crafting the Perfect Spagliato
The Spagliato is an elegant twist on the classic Negroni, famed for its simplicity and rich flavours. Originating in Italy, the Spagliato replaces gin with sparkling Prosecco, adding effervescence to the cocktail. This delightful blend transforms the Negroni into a more approachable, celebratory drink.
- Combine: Start with a glass filled with ice. Pour 30 ml of Campari and 25 ml of sweet vermouth.
- Top Up: Slowly top with 100 ml of Prosecco to retain the bubbles.
- Stir Gently: Briefly stir to combine the aromatic flavours.
- Garnish: For an extra touch, add an orange slice or peel.
The Story Behind the Prosecco Old Pal
The Old Pal is a boozy favourite with a history rooted in literary folklore. First created in the 1920s, it was named by famed sports writer and editor, Harry MacElhone. By adding Prosecco, we've modernised this classic, balancing its bold flavours with a refreshing crispness.
- Mix: Combine 30 ml each of whiskey, dry vermouth, and Campari in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir Well: Stir until the glass feels comfortably cold.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Top with Prosecco: Gently pour 50 ml of Prosecco to finish.
- Garnish: A lemon twist or an orange peel enhances its zest.
Boulevardier Reimagined
The Boulevardier is an Italian take on the American classic, sharing similarities with the Negroni but with bourbon swapped in for gin. By adding Prosecco, this cocktail gains an added layer of complexity and finesse. It’s the perfect concoction for those who appreciate whiskey’s boldness softened by sweet vermouth and bubbly Prosecco.
- Mix: In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine 30 ml of bourbon and 25 ml of sweet vermouth.
- Stir Thoroughly: Stir the ingredients until they are well chilled.
- Strain: Properly strain the mixture into a pre-chilled glass.
- Top with Prosecco: Carefully add 50 ml of Prosecco.
- Garnish: An orange peel or cherry makes for a lovely finish.
How to Make the Perfect Prosecco Cocktail
Prosecco: The Star Ingredient
- Choosing the right Prosecco is crucial. Opt for a dry (Brut) type as it complements the bitters and vermouths well. The bubbles add a celebratory feel and a certain lightness to each cocktail, making it refreshing and perfect for any setting.
Campari: A Bitter Delight
- Campari is known for its deep reddish hue and unique bittersweet flavour. It plays a starring role in all three cocktails, offering a robust base that pairs wonderfully with the herbal notes of vermouth and the bubbly nature of Prosecco.
Vermouth: The Balancer
- Sweet and dry vermouths add complexity and depth to each cocktail. The sweet vermouth brings a luscious, rich quality, while the dry vermouth offers a crisp, clean finish. Together, they balance the bitterness of the Campari and the effervescence of the Prosecco.
Whiskey and Bourbon: Adding the Bold
- Both whiskey and bourbon add richness and warmth to the cocktails. Their inherent robustness is complemented by the other ingredients, making each sip a balanced and flavourful experience.
Glassware: A Final Touch
- Selecting the right glassware enhances not just the aesthetics but also the drinking experience. A chilled coupe or a highball glass is ideal for these Prosecco cocktails. Remember, the temperature and presentation matter when crafting the perfect drink.
Pro Tips for Prosecco Cocktails
Ice, Ice Baby
- Using high-quality ice is crucial. Avoid using old ice that may have absorbed freezer odours, and ensure that the ice is large enough to slowly release, avoiding quick dilution of your cocktail.
Stir, Don’t Shake
- Unlike fruity or creamy cocktails, Prosecco cocktails benefit from stirring. This method combines the ingredients without introducing excess air, maintaining the integrity of the bubbles and providing a smoother finish.
Garnish Like a Pro
- Garnishing is not just for charisma but also adds an extra layer of aroma and flavour. Fresh citrus peels, cherries, or even herbs like basil or thyme can make a world of difference.
Get Creative: Variations and Substitutions
Mix It Up with Different Flavours
Every cocktail enthusiast knows that experimenting is half the fun. You can try substituting or adding herbal bitters, flavoured vermouths, or even different types of sparkling wines. For instance, a touch of elderflower liqueur can elevate the Spagliato, while adding a hint of absinthe to the Old Pal can lend it a mysterious twist.
Pairing with Charcuterie Boxes
Imagine your Prosecco Cocktail Box paired with one of our delightful charcuterie boxes. The rich, complementary flavours of meats, cheeses, and gourmet snacks create an unparalleled experience. Options like the "Prosecco Charcuterie Box" or "Espresso Charcuterie Box" will complete your evening.
Hosting a Cocktail Tasting Party
Why not share the joy of Prosecco cocktails with friends and family? Hosting a tasting party can be a fun and interactive way to explore different flavours and techniques. Set up stations for mixing and garnishing, and provide a variety of garnishes and mixers for personalisation.
The Ultimate Cocktail Experience Delivered to Your Door
In conclusion, our Prosecco Gift Set delivers a complete, high-quality cocktail experience directly to your door. Enjoy mixing up classics like the Spagliato, Old Pal, and Boulevardier with our premium ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next gathering or simply enjoy a sophisticated drink at home, this box is a must-have.
For more cocktail inspiration and to explore our wide range of options, check out our Classic Cocktails Collection and Cocktail Subscription Box. Upgrade your cocktail game and delight your taste buds with the best that Cocktail Crates has to offer. Cheers to sipping in style!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Prosecco cocktails?
Prosecco cocktails are mixed drinks that feature Prosecco, an Italian sparkling wine, as one of their key ingredients. These cocktails can range from light and refreshing to more robust and complex.
How should I serve Prosecco cocktails?
Prosecco cocktails are typically served chilled in various types of glassware, depending on the specific drink. The most common choices are flute glasses and cocktail glasses.
What is a Spagliato?
A Spagliato is a cocktail that originates from Italy. It is a twist on the classic Negroni, where Prosecco replaces the usual gin.
What does a Spagliato taste like?
A Spagliato has a bittersweet flavour with a bit of sparkle from the Prosecco. It is a lighter and more effervescent version of a Negroni.
Can you make a non-alcoholic Spagliato?
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic Spagliato by using non-alcoholic versions of Campari and sweet vermouth, and replacing Prosecco with a sparkling non-alcoholic wine or soda water.
What kind of Prosecco should I use for a Spagliato?
It's best to use a dry or extra dry Prosecco to balance the bitterness of the Campari and the sweetness of the vermouth.
What is an Old Pal?
An Old Pal is a classic cocktail that is a variation of the Boulevardier but uses dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth.
What does an Old Pal taste like?
An Old Pal has a balanced flavour profile with the spiciness of rye whiskey, the bitterness of Campari, and the dryness of vermouth. It is less sweet compared to the Boulevardier.
Can I use bourbon instead of rye whiskey in an Old Pal?
You can, but it will alter the flavour profile. Rye whiskey is more traditional for this cocktail and gives it its characteristic spiciness.
What is the best way to serve an Old Pal?
An Old Pal is typically served straight up in a chilled cocktail glass, garnished with a lemon twist.
What is a Boulevardier?
A Boulevardier is a classic cocktail that is similar to a Negroni but uses whiskey instead of gin.
What does a Boulevardier taste like?
A Boulevardier has a rich and complex flavour due to the combination of whiskey's warmth, Campari's bitterness, and sweet vermouth's smoothness. It is a robust and sophisticated cocktail.
Can I use a different type of whiskey for a Boulevardier?
Yes, you can use different types of whiskey like bourbon or rye, which will slightly alter the flavor profile. Bourbon tends to be sweeter, while rye is spicier.
Is there a recommended garnish for a Boulevardier?
An orange twist is commonly used as a garnish, but you can also use a cherry or a lemon twist depending on your preference.
Can I pre-mix Boulevardier cocktails for a party?
Yes, you can pre-mix the ingredients and keep them refrigerated. Add ice and stir just before serving to ensure the cocktail is well-chilled and properly diluted.