Classic Cocktails for Your Wedding

Last night Nicole and I were invited to a Classic Cocktail party, put on by the LCBO, with special guest Janie Bryant, award-winning costume designer of Mad Men. As huge fans of the show, we were thrilled to go. Nicole even got a chance to speak with Janie and get her take on wedding dresses! (Stay tuned for that post). In addition to loving the show, I am personally loving this throw-back to '60s-inspired cocktails and appetizers. If you're looking for a signature cocktail for your wedding or even a theme for your engagement party or bachelorette, I suggest you consider going for a '60s theme. Last night they were serving eight classic cocktails including the Moscow Mule (which is apparently Oprah's favourite drink), the Rusty Nail and even Manhattan's. Unless you've got your bartending license chances you haven't heard of half of these "classic" drinks. Here are some recipes to three classic drinks featured at the party.

The Moscow Mule 2 oz Vodka 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice 4 oz Ginger Beer (or Ginger Ale) Lime Wedge

Pour the Vodka and lime juice into an ice-filled highball glass. Top with Ginger Beer and stir. Squeeze the lime wedge over the drink and drop it in.

Negroni 1 oz Gin 1 oz Campari 1 oz Sweet Vermouth 2-3 oz chilled Club Soda (optional) Orange Slice

Place all ingredients in a rocks glass filled with ice. Stir to mix. Top with club soda, if desired. Garnish with the orange slice.

Tequila Sunrise 1 1/2 oz Blanco Tequila 1/2 Berry Liqueur or grenadine Squeeze of lime 4-5 oz orange juice Maraschino cherry, orange slice

Add Berry Liqueur or grenadine to a highball glass. Fill the glass with ice and add Tequila, a squeeze of lime juice and orange juice. Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

For more drink recipes, visit classiccocktails.ca.

All photography courtesy LCBO.