While the Commissioner might get the traditional boos when he appears on stage, NFL fans are ready to cheer for the new class of rookies. From surprising moments to pre-determined choices, everyone is ready to toast to those big first round picks. These Draft Day cocktails from Smirnoff will have everyone raising a glass to the possibility of a winning season.
Time and again, themed cocktails are always a popular choice. From the person who can tweak that signature cocktail to make it pair with their favorite team or a new libation that brings good luck to the home team, no one wants an empty glass when that touchdown is scored.
Smirnoff has shared a variety of football themed beverages that are perfect for a Draft Day party, game day, or anytime a thirst just hits. Several of the cocktails take a taste of the familiar and add a slight twist. That blend of the old and new is vital to making these drinks approachable. Additionally, the recipes are far from complicated. While people can appreciate the elevated mixology, simplicity is often the theme for at-home libations.
Ready to shake up these Draft Day cocktails?
The Undefeated
While the first win is momentous, keeping that streak going is even bigger. While the win/loss percentage will help a team head to the playoffs, the dream of being undefeated is a lofty one. This cocktail helps to keep that dream alive.
Ingredients:
1 ¼ oz Smirnoff No. 21
¼ oz blue curacao
3 oz pineapple
.5 oz lime squeezed
Directions:
Add all ingredients into a shaker filled with ice. Shake for about 6 to 8 seconds and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a pineapple triangle and pineapple leaf or spring of mint.
G-Mentini
Everyone has a goal of an epic play. From that long run turned into a score to the defense keeping a team’s lead, every play counts. This cocktail has both the sweet and bold flavors that keep everyone on their toes throughout the game.
Ingredients:
1 oz Smirnoff No. 21
1 oz sweet vermouth
2 dashes aromatic bitters
Maraschino cherry for garnish
Directions:
Add all ingredients into a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir for about 10 seconds. Strain into a coupe glass or rocks glass and garnish with a maraschino cherry.
The Sweet Victory
There is nothing sweeter than grabbing victory from the jaws of defeat. This cocktail is almost a riff on the popular spritz beverages. It is sweet, a touch tart, and bubbling with excitement.
Ingredients:
1.5 oz Smirnoff No. 21
1 oz elderflower syrup
.5 oz lemon juice
2 oz club soda
Top with cranberry juice
Directions:
Add all ingredients, except the club soda and the cranberry juice, into a shaker filled with ice and shake for about 6 to 8 seconds. Add the club soda into the shaker and strain into a highball glass filled with ice. Add the splash of cranberry juice and garnish.
Home Game Punch
Everyone knows that a home game comes with the fan advantage. This cocktail is a great opening note to get the party started. Serve up a big batch for the whole crew.
Ingredients:
25 oz Smirnoff No. 21
20 oz orange juice
20 oz cranberry juice
Directions:
Add all ingredients into a punch bowl filled with ice and garnish with oranges and mint.’
The Fourth Down Driver
There is nothing more exciting than converting on a fourth down. This cocktail will be the good luck charm to cheer a team to another round of plays.
Ingredients:
1.5 oz Smirnoff No. 21
4 oz fresh squeezed orange juice
Orange wedge to garnish
Directions:
Add Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka and Orange Juice to highball glass filled with ice. Stir and garnish with orange wedge.
What are you going to be serving at your Draft Day party? Time to cheer the possibilities of another winning season.