Orange and Cherry Mimosa Cocktail

As you know I love champagne, so here is another way to make an excuse to pop open a bottle of the stuff and enjoy.

On a side note I had lunch with my friends Dee and Tami at the Cincinnati Art Museum this week.  We had a great time catching up over lunch and then walking around the museum looking at the artist Henry Ossawa Tanner’s work on exhibit.  Dee bought me the beautiful serving tray featured in the final photo.  LOVE IT, Thanks girlie!

Dee had to run away early to take her daughter to the doctor, so Tami and I lingered a little while longer and on our way out asked a few gents to take our pic with Pinocchio.  We thought we were quite clever!  Thought I would share.

• 3 seedless oranges, halved and juiced
• Peel of 1/2 orange, cut into 8 thin strips, for garnish
• 1/2 cup red cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup sweet vermouth
• 1/4 cup blended Scotch
• 1 bottle champagne or other dry sparkling wine

Transfer orange juice to a blender. Add cherries and blend until fruit is pureed. Strain juice into a pitcher.

Stir in vermouth and Scotch.
Divide cocktail mixture among 8 glasses and top off each with about 1/3 cup champagne. Garnish with orange peels.