The number one alcoholic beverage that comes to my mind for New Year’s Eve is champagne- shocker! EVERYbody likes a glass of champagne on New Year’s Eve, even the people who only have a drink once a year ON NEW YEAR’S EVE. Truth be told, though, if I was rich and didn’t have to work, I would travel at least six months out of the year, eat lobster for dinner every night, and drink Veuve Clicquot champagne all day long, at least on the days that I wasn’t hungover. No wonder there are so many celebrities dying young- they must be spending all of their free time doing just that. Although I left out the drug abuse part, which doesn’t aid in longevity.

I can’t write a post about plain ole champagne, however- so let me tell you about some mighty fine cocktails with champagne as a featured ingredient.

I have previously posted recipes for the Cranberry Peach Blossom, the Citrus Cranberry Fizz and the Red Carpet Burn. If you prefer any of those choices, you are good to go for New Year’s Eve- but if you would like a couple more suggestions, keep on reading.

Berry Peach Martini

2 oz peach vodka
1 oz blackberry creme de mure (I used the Drillaud brand)
1 oz peach nectar
Dry champagne

Pour the first three ingredients into a shaker with ice, shake vigorously then strain into a martini glass. Top with 2-3 ounces of your champagne of choice.

This cocktail is a delightful combination of berry and peach flavors, topped with bubbles- but watch out, it is almost all booze and packs a punch. I would suggest this drink for those of you who plan on being home before midnight and don’t expect to have more than two drinks.

Cran-Pom Champagne Cocktail

1 oz triple sec
2-3 ounces cranberry pomegranate juice
Juice of one lemon
Champagne

Pour the first three ingredients into a shaker with ice, shake and pour into a champagne or wine glass. Top with 3-4 ounces of champagne.

This is a fruity, fresh and bubbly mixture, and the fresh lemon juice transforms it into a very classy (maybe even classic) cocktail. If you like a sweeter drink, use Prosecco champagne, otherwise, go with extra dry or brut. If you are planning to stay awake until midnight or later on New Year’s Eve, this may be a good choice. It’s not too strong and won’t weigh you down, so you can probably handle a few more of these than the Berry Peach Martini (as long as you have a designated driver, of course).

Whichever champagne cocktail you choose, or if you forego the mixing and drink it straight, enjoy that libation that symbolizes celebration. Here’s to 2017- may it bring you everything you hope for!