There’s something about pomegranates. They are one of the very first human-cultivated fruits and they’ve played a symbolic role in various cultures and religions for centuries. Pomegranates are said to have decorated the pillars of Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem; they also appear repeatedly in the Biblical Song of Solomon. In Buddhism, the pomegranate is considered one of three blessed fruits. In Hindu culture, the deity Ganesha is often depicted holding a pomegranate in one of his many hands. In Greek mythology, Hades tempts Persephone into marriage with… what else?… a pomegranate.
What better way to kick of the secular new year than with a Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail? This simple pairing of pure pomegranate juice, Cointreau (or orange liqueur), sweetened lime juice and champagne is lightly sweet, refreshing and festive. Garnish with juicy pomegranate seeds and you’ve got an elegant cocktail for toasting when that big sparkly ball drops. Making for a crowd? Premix several servings of the pomegranate juice, Cointreau and sweet lime juice in a pitcher, then chill– for 32 servings you would use 4 cups of pomegranate juice, 2 cups Cointreau and 1/3 cup + 1 tsp sweetened lime juice. When ready to serve, stir up the pre-mixed juice mixture, place pomegranate seeds in the champagne flutes, then pour in 3 1/2 tbsp of the chilled juice mixture per flute. Just before serving, top off the flutes with chilled champagne.
If you don’t wish to imbibe this holiday, I’ve provided a really yummy virgin mocktail modification below. If you are indulging, please play safe and get a designated driver. L’chaim!
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Ingredients
- 2 tbsp pure 100% pomegranate juice, chilled
- 1 tbsp Cointreau
- 1/2 tsp pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 tsp sweetened lime juice
- Champagne or sparkling wine, chilled
InstructionsÂ
- Spoon the pomegranate seeds into the bottom of a Champagne flute. Add pomegranate juice, Cointreau and sweetened lime juice. Top off the flute with chilled Champagne or sparkling wine.
- Virgin Mocktail Modification: Substitute 1 tbsp fresh squeezed orange juice for the Cointreau and non-alcoholic sparkling cider for the champagne/sparkling wine. This makes a really yummy non-alcoholic version!
Duane says
Sounds as yummy in 2018/2019 as when first published in 2013! Yet, while decorative, I think I’d forgo the pomegranate seeds.
Tori Avey says
The seeds are my favorite part! 🙂 They add this lovely burst of flavor at the bottom of the glass. To each his own!
Kim Beaulieu says
I’m totally digging this cocktail Tori. It’s so pretty. Happy New Year lady. xx
maureen says
Please define sweetened lime juice. Lime juice + simple syrup or something else?
Thanks!
Tori Avey says
Hi Maureen, Sweetened Lime Juice is a product that is usually sold near the liquor mixers (Bloody Mary Mix, etc.). The most common brand is Rose’s. It is exactly what it sounds like– a sweet, syrupy version of lime juice. 🙂
Dawn Donovan says
looks awesoe, thanks for sharing
D @ The Kosher Cave Girl says
This looks absolutely delicious!
Ron Rose says
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Freiha Jean says
Pomegranate being the food of the dead, Persephone will not be able to leave the underworld. Happy 2014 !
Mary Breen says
Tori, thank you for all the great posts and recipes this past year, Happy, Healthy new year.
Leslie E Redd-Preston says
So good for you and tastes good too!
Tashia Small says
This is phenomenal!! Cheers to a delightful 2014 all!
Tori Avey says
Yay! Happy New Year Tashia! 🙂
Melissa Travis says
As a Shiksa and a Latin teacher… I approve!
Amy @ What Jew Wanna Eat says
What a gorgeous drink! Happy Jew Year, Tori!
Blue Kale Road says
Love this one, Tori! Wishing you a healthy, delicious 2014!
Giuseppina Massari says
Perfect for a Capodanno Italiano.. RED!!!!
Elliott Fiona Lewis-Jackson says
dangerous stuff
Sara Vail Miedema says
yum
Georgette Silver says
Antioxidant…!
Alexandra Ilyashova says
now that sounds yummy. Count me in!
Georgina Strelakos says
Ooooh delish
Bev Hoffman-Rush says
Num