Spring Sips For All Ages
Posted on 19 Apr 2022
Spring Sips For All Ages
Warm sunshine and cool spring nights have come to the Front Range, and so too have thoughts of outdoor entertaining. Whether you’re hosting the in-laws for dinner or neighbors for cocktails, serving a selection of innovative sips on your beautiful Reunion patio is sure to make a stunning impression. No matter what your personal preferences may be, these delectable drinks can be customized to please a variety of palates. Read on for recipes with and without alcohol that will make your spring gatherings a breeze.
Seltzers, Spritzers, and Sodas
Sparkling water seems to have taken over the Colorado beverage scene, so use your favorite flavors to make a custom vodka soda. Pour 1/2 cup vodka into a glass, add fresh fruit and a tablespoon of juice or simple syrup, then top with 1/2 cup of sparkling water. For a non-alcoholic twist, replace the vodka with an additional 1/2 cup of water to make an Italian soda perfect for the kids! Mix and match citrus with berries, lemon with ginger, or just use a squeeze of lime for a delightfully simple drinking experience.
Simple Syrups
“Simple syrup” refers to a heated reduction of equal parts sugar and water, but that’s only the most basic version. You can flavor simple syrup with fruit, herbs, and even spices! The straightforward recipe calls for 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup sugar mixed in a saucepan over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Add one cup of chopped fruit and simmer for about 25 minutes before straining, allowing to cool, then refrigerating. Try blueberries, strawberries, peaches, or watermelon for a traditional flavor profile, or be daring and use a chopped jalapeno for syrup with a kick — or even 1/2 cup of lemon juice with two tablespoons of peeled and chopped ginger. An international favorite addition is dried sorrel, which can infuse a gorgeous red color into your syrup with a perky hint of hibiscus. Use the calyx part of the flower, which you can purchase dried from Amazon or other retailers — or try lavender for another lovely floral option.
Sangria
If you want to make the most of the newly-reopened local farmers’ markets and serve fruit directly in your drinks, sangria — a mixed alcohol concoction that originated in Spain and Portugal — is a smart choice. For a fresh take on sangria, grab a pitcher and combine one bottle of dry white wine, four peeled and sliced kiwi fruits, one cup of deseeded and cubed watermelon, one thinly sliced lime, about three tablespoons of melon liqueur, and 1/4 cup sugar, stirring to crush some of the fruit. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours to let the flavors meld before serving over ice with more fresh fruit. Sangria provides a bright note for brunches, baby showers, or barbecues on your patio — the perfect accompaniment to gorgeous weather.
If you can imagine serving beautiful beverages at a get-together on your spacious porch or walk-out patio, contact us ASAP! We’re ready to help you find your forever dream home. Now that’s something to toast!
