Food The Bite:

NYE Champagne Cocktail

Photography by Sarah Elliott

I am all about ceremonious acts this New Years Eve. I find ceremony in quiet moments like this, the calm before the celebratory storm, as I clear my space and set an intention for the year to come by burning sage. But I also find ceremony in crafting an epic cocktail that wows my guests. This NYE I will be starting anew by creating a pear, sage, and ginger champagne cocktail. The warming properties of the spicy ginger and velvety sage are perfect for this time of year, particularly coupled with some Moet bubbly making the flavors cozy and crisp at once. The pear puree and honey ginger simple syrup can be made in advance, making this cocktail perfectly suited for NYE.

NYE Champagne Cocktail

Party Tips

Serve a signature champagne cocktail — something festive and celebratory. This allows guests two options, straight-up champagne or the custom cocktail. It’s enough to make the gathering feel special. You don’t need a stocked bar!

An eclectic playlist, plus a back-up mix in case the party keeps on keepin’ on, is essential. Having speakers in various zones is ideal so the music can be heard or lowered in key areas!

Have simple nibbles available before guests arrive, Cheese and charcuterie and olives is easy on the host and yummy for your guests.

NYE Champagne Cocktail
NYE Champagne Cocktail

Tons and tons of sparkly candle light – it’s the most flattering. An add some actual sparklers for good measure and FUN!

While we’re on the subject of candles, be sure to pre-burn those beauties before guests arrive! This small step offers a big payoff, making the lights drippy and romantic.

For the food, focus on seasonal ingredients and dishes that could be prepared in advance—a must for any holiday gathering.

NYE Champagne Cocktail

NYE is about setting intention for the new year so create a ceremony for starting anew. Burn sage to clean your space or spirit. Or read aloud quotes of gratitude to inspire new thinking.

NYE Champagne Cocktail

When your guests finally arrive, it’s time to enjoy yourself! Be sure you have help with the behind-the-scenes and production elements so you’re free to mix and mingle. A stressed host projects onto the overall event. A relaxed atmosphere makes your friends feel at home.

Pear, Ginger & Sage Champagne Cocktail

EyeSwoon Kitchen

Ingredients

6-8 cocktails

Honey Ginger Sage Simple Syrup

  • ¾ cup honey
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 large chunk of ginger, peeled and diced
  • 15 fresh sage leaves + additional for garnish
  • 1 vanilla bean split

Pear Puree

  • 3 medium ripe pears, peeled, pitted, and quartered
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • ½ cup water
  • 5-8 sage leaves
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Method

Honey Ginger Sage Simple Syrup

In a saucepan combine the honey and water over medium heat and bring to a light boil. Turn the heat down to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the honey has dissolved. Add the ginger, vanilla bean, and sage leaves. Simmer until, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has reduced by 1/3, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat, remain covered to allow the mixture steep further as it cools. Strain the syrup into a large mason jar. Discard the ginger and sage leaves.

Pear Puree

Combine the pears, lemon juice, 1/2 cup water, sage leaves, and cinnamon in a blender. Blend until smooth.

To Compose

1 oz (2 Tablespoons) simple syrup, 1 oz (2 Tablespoons) pear puree, Add the champagne, stir and enjoy.

Share this Swoon –