Behind the Bar - Bloody Valentine

Valentines Day is just around the corner and whether you're planning a romantic evening for two or a get-together with your closest friends, there's no better way to spend the day than hanging with the people you love most. 

This crowd-pleasing cocktail is the perfect complement to a cozy evening at home. Bourbon is the ideal warming spirit for a chilly evening. I love taking advantage of winter citrus and deep red blood orange juice feels special and unexpected. A few dashes of bitters lend depth and a little spice and sparkling wine gives the drink a nice effervescence.

Make a big batch, or just a couple, and raise a glass to all the people you love. 

Bloody Valentine

Ingredients:

- 1 oz Four Roses bourbon

- 3 oz blood orange juice (strain through a fine mesh strainer if you don't like pulp)

- A few dashes Angostura bitters

- Champagne or prosecco to top

Directions:

Combine bourbon, blood orange juice, and bitters in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds. Pour into a cocktail class and top with champagne or prosecco. Extra credit if you garnish with a blood orange twist.

This post was sponsored by Four Roses bourbon. Recipe is original and all thoughts and opinions are my own.