Friday, December 21, 2012

The ULTIMATE Dirty Santa

We've all been invited to gatherings where this game is played. Bring an item in a certain price range, pick a number and hope for the best....

But, when in a diverse crowd, it's tough to choose something that everyone will actually covet (which really is the point). So, for our annual office holiday gathering, we opted to narrow the options just a bit. Our 'Dirty Santa' game involved only cocktails. No crazy serving platters or napkin rings to be tossed or re-gifted, but instead we each brought our favorite cocktail recipe along with all of the ingredients. It was a smashing success. Everyone had a blast, gathered inspiration for new libations and wanted to keep their gift.



Wrapped up in the scarf is Tanqueray Gin, my favorite Prosecco, a lovely bottle of
simple syrup from Williams Sonoma and lemons. 

I took the challenge seriously and went 'all out' in putting my package together. My drink of choice was the FRENCH 75. I chose premium spirits wrapped in a Parisian scarf tied with a keepsake ribbon. It was so much fun, and I was thrilled to see it 'stolen' the maximum of 3 times during our game. Others in the group came up with their own fun mixes- -everything from Blue Moon beer with fresh oranges to a Cosmopolitan package complete with a gorgeous martini glass and homemade infused cranberry vodka. I ended up with a fab contribution from the pile labeled "Sex on the Beach" complete with premium vodka, peach schnapps, OJ and a beach towel.


The French 75

FRENCH 75

1 oz dry gin
1 Tbsp simple syrup
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
Sparkling wine

Shake the first 3 ingredients vigorously with ice in a shaker. Pour into a coup glass and top with the bubbly. 

If you're short on ideas on what to give friends or just want a fun take on gifting, this is something that will work for almost anyone.  It's also an inventive wedding present (just double the glassware). Whether you provide the ingredients and crystal for a Manhattan or Irish Coffee, it's sure to be a hit. 

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