I am in love with this twist on a cranberry rosemary vodka cocktail...only because I am a super fan of cranberry juice (the fresh real juice kind...not the "cocktail" non-juice kind).  Especially for fall, this colourful tart, aromatic drink makes me want to enjoy it in front of a fireplace, wrapped in a blanket (with my phone) and listen to nouveau jazz music.  Plus, when I drink it in my tumbler, I don't need to worry about it warming up (which is what happens with slow sippers drinking from glass)...this cup keeps it cold long after the fire fizzles out.

As a wedding cocktail drink or a signature party drink, I am a fan.  This is simple, herbaceous, trendy and looks good.  Your guests will love the rosemary, orange and fresh cranberry accents and the flair of offering them vitamin C-rich spirits (so health conscious!) as they join you for an evening adventure.

Cranberry Rosemary Vodka-tini

1-2 oz cranberry juice

1-2 oz club soda or perrier water (optional: if you find the cranberry juice is too tart)

1-2 oz of vodka 

1 tbsp - 1/2 oz orange rosemary syrup (or orange juice if you are pressed for time)

Rosemary, orange slices and/or fresh cranberries to garnish 

Add orange rosemary syrup to your glass or tumbler, then the vodka, cranberry juice (and club soda).  Garnish with rosemary (this adds the extra aromatic element to the drink).  Want to make this more interactive?  Place your syrup in shot glasses and have guests pour their own syrup in to their vodka/cran/soda drink.

Orange Rosemary Syrup

Juice from 1 lemon

1/2 cup of sugar

1 cup of water

2 oranges slices (with peel)

4 sprigs of fresh rosemary

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil while stirring, then simmer for 1/2-1 hour.  Strain, place liquid in the refrigerator to cool.  This can also be made a day or two ahead of time as long as it is kept chilled.

Looking for the personalized wine tumbler to serve this in or gift to your host?  Find it here and enjoy your drink!