Homemade Cocktails to Please a Crowd

Published on July 20th, 2012 2:17 PM, by Jamie Peha No Comments

Contrary to perception, I am not a big “drinker.” Don’t get me wrong, I like cocktails but they have to taste great and I’m a bit fussy. Since I might have one or maybe two at the most, I want to relish them. To that end my summer cocktails seem to be a hit with friends and guests. My standard cocktail, named the “Peha’s Punch” by a bartender at the Snoqualmie Casino was actually on their menu for a while. It’s simple, refreshing and a cinch to make. Whenever I order it and someone overhears me, they usually order one for themselves. It packs a punch!

Peha’s Punch

• 1.5 ounce Mandarin Vodka (Orange vodka works )
• 1 each lemon, lime, orange wedge
• Soda water or mineral water

Pour vodka over the ice.
 Muddle the fruit with ice and vodka
.  Add soda water
I use a large glass because I want my cocktail to last and I don’t like them strong tasting. For me, a beer pint glass is the ticket. If you like a stronger drink, just use a smaller glass.

Berry Spritz

• 1.5 ounce Raspberry Vodka (plain vodka or Pomegranate vodka works too)
• 6 each raspberries, blueberries (vary the fruit or berries to your liking)
• Lemon juice
• 7-up
• Soda water or mineral water

Pour vodka over the ice
. Muddle the fruit with ice, vodka and lemon. 
Add splash 7UP
. Fill with Soda water or mineral water.

Summer in a Glass

• 1.5 ounce plain vodka (your favorite brand)
• San Pellegrino Araciata Rossa (Blood Orange soda)
• San Pellegrino Sparkling water
• Blood orange or grapefruit wedge
• Pour vodka over the ice

Add equal parts Blood Orange soda and sparkling water
Garnish with fruit.

I like to keep a variety of mixers on hand and I am particularly fond of San Pellegrino, Dry Soda, Penafiel, Jarritos and my trusty soda water and 7Up. You can make so many cocktails with this simple bar set up and a little fresh fruit. If you are feeling fancy, add a sprig of mint or head over to Kathy Casey’s website as she is the queen of cocktails!

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