Partridge in a Pear TreeCocktail recipe
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Highball glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
The Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail orchestrates a symphony of holiday flavors, with the rich notes of bourbon and pear brandy providing a delightful warmth while the spiced honey syrup underpins the seasonal spirit with an enticing hint of cinnamon and ginger. The sparkling pear cider adds an invigorating effervescence that accentuates the fruity notes, making the drink refreshingly light yet deep with complexity. The touch of nutmeg rounds it all off with a cozy finish, perfectly capturing the joy of festive gatherings in each sip.
Method
How to make a Partridge in a Pear Tree
- Bourbon 120 ml, pear brandy 60 ml (St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur preferred), sparkling pear hard cider to top, Lemon Juice 45 ml, Honey 60 ml, Water 60 ml, Cinnamon 1/8 tsp, Ginger 1/8 tsp, Nutmeg Pinch
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- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, bring honey, water, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg to a boil
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- Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes
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- Strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a small measuring cup or bowl
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- In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, pear brandy, lemon juice, and 2 oz of the honey syrup
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- Cover and shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is frosty, about 20 seconds
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- Divide the mixture between two glasses, fill with ice, and top off with sparkling pear cider
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- Garnish with pear slices and candied ginger if desired
Power tips
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Find out more- To add a deeper pear flavor, infuse the bourbon with dried pears for a day or two before making the cocktail. This will impart a subtle, richer pear essence that complements the pear brandy and cider.
- Use freshly grated nutmeg as a garnish on top of the drink for an aromatic lift that will awaken the senses with each sip. Fresh spices always provide a more intense aroma, enhancing the cocktail's complexity.
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Your private tasting notes
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FAQ's
What kind of brandy should I use in a Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail?
The Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail benefits greatly from the use of a high-quality pear brandy. While any pear brandy will work, the preferred choice for this cocktail is St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur. This particular liqueur adds a unique layer of spice and aromatic depth, which complements the other flavors in the drink. Its notes of pear are enhanced by spices like cinnamon, clove, and cardamom, making it perfect for the festive and warming character of the cocktail.
Why is the Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail suitable for the holiday season?
The Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail is particularly suited for the holiday season due to its inspiration from the classic carol 'The 12 Days of Christmas.' The combination of warming bourbon, spiced pear brandy, and rich spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger creates a cozy and festive flavor profile that's ideal for holiday gatherings. Furthermore, the addition of sparkling pear hard cider adds a celebratory bubbly touch, making this cocktail a delightful choice for Christmas parties and family get-togethers.
How is the Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail prepared?
The Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail is prepared by shaking, not stirring, which ensures the even blending of all the ingredients, including bourbon, pear brandy, lemon juice, and other flavor components like cinnamon and ginger. This technique results in a cold, well-mixed cocktail that showcases the harmonious balance of sweetness and spice intended by the recipe. After shaking, the mixture is strained into a highball glass, topped with sparkling pear hard cider to add effervescence, and served.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail?
Yes, a non-alcoholic version of the Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail can be created by substituting the alcoholic components with non-alcoholic alternatives while preserving the drink's festive flavors. For instance, you can replace the bourbon and pear brandy with pear juice or a mix of apple juice and a dash of vanilla extract to mimic the barrel-aged taste of bourbon. Add your choice of spices and use sparkling water in place of cider to maintain the cocktail's refreshing and bubbly character.
What food pairs well with a Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail?
The Partridge in a Pear Tree cocktail pairs wonderfully with rich, savory dishes and festive treats that echo its warm and spicy tones. Consider serving it alongside roasted meats such as turkey or glazed ham, as their robust flavors complement the cocktail's aromatic profile. It also goes well with cheese platters featuring sharp cheddar or creamy blue cheese, as well as sweet desserts like spiced apple pie or gingerbread cookies, enhancing the communal feel of a holiday meal with its harmonious flavor balance.
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