Orange-Cherry Champagne Cocktails

From Country Living

This recipe has been tested by Country Living

In China, citrus is given at the New Year as a sign of prosperity. In a champagne cocktail, sweet-tart oranges balance the flavors of the alcohol and other fruit.

By Jane Lopes 

Kate Sears

Yields: 8 cocktails

Total Time: 10 min

Prep Time: 10 min

Ingredients

U.S.

Metric

Conversion chart

• 3 seedless oranges, halved and juiced
• Peel of 1/2 orange, cut into 8 thin strips, for garnish
• 1/2 cup(s) red cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup(s) sweet vermouth (such as Carpano Antica)
• 1/4 cup(s) blended Scotch (such as Famous Grouse)
• 1 bottle(s) champagne or other dry sparkling wine (such as Domaine Saint Vincent Brut), chilled

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Directions

1. Transfer orange juice to a blender. Add cherries and blend until fruit is pureed. Strain juice into a pitcher. Stir in vermouth and Scotch.
2. Divide cocktail mixture among 8 glasses and top off each with about 1/3 cup champagne. Garnish with orange peels.