Drink Of The Week – Pomegranate-Apple Cocktails

Yikes! We’ve barely cleared Halloween and it’s now the march to Turkey Day. No fear, I will keep you in libations all the way through the month, starting with this versatile drink from Country Living. It can be served it hot or cold, with or without alcohol.

3 cups pomegranate juice
1 1/2 cups apple cider
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon allspice berries
4 sticks (3 inches each) cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
1 orange, sliced into rounds
16 kumquats, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
1/2 cup apple brandy (optional)

1.Combine all ingredients except half of the kumquats and the brandy in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.

2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in brandy, if desired.

3. For hot pomegranate-apple cider, reheat the spiced pomegranate mixture and divide among four mugs. Add remaining kumquat slices. Serve hot.

4. For pomegranate-champagne cocktails, divide 1/2 cup of the cooled spiced pomegranate mixture between four champagne flutes. Add 4 ounces of chilled champagne to each glass and serve immediately.