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.
Food
The Bite:
NYE Champagne Cocktail
Photography by Sarah Elliott
Pear, Ginger & Sage Champagne Cocktail
EyeSwoon KitchenIngredients
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.
