David's Dessert Wines

This Monday, our resident Mixologist, Woodbridge Wine Supervisor David Rudd, is back with recipes for his favorite dessert wines!

I love a good after dinner drink. There really isn’t anything quite as satisfying as a perfect bookend to a delicious meal. I really appreciate some of the classic recipes that have developed over the years in other cultures – amaros, sambucas, grappas. It seems fitting that here in the USA, our “melting pot” mindset inspired stateside bartenders to mix these flavors and invent some extremely flavorful cocktails. The cocktails I offer today truly deserve to be considered an object of your attention.

Bourbon Ball
As I type up this recipe, I am reminded of the first time I tasted it. It is DELICIOUS! Truly one to keep in your repertoire of worldly delights.
-2 oz of Woodford Reserve Bourbon
-1 oz of white Crème de Cacao
-¼ oz of Frangelico
Place all ingredients over ice in a cocktail shaker and give a vigorous toss. When the concoction begins to froth open your shaker and dump the contents (ice and all) into your mug. Garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon and enjoy.

Nocello Dream
This recipe follows nearly any dinner beautifully, but it is especially lovely accompanied by a slice of cake… If you happen to have a clear mug, use it for this recipe as the layering effect is quite lovely.
-1 ¾ oz of hot espresso coffee
-1 oz of Nocello Walnut Liqueur
-1 oz of Tuaca Liqueur
Pour the ingredients slowly into your mug and allow them to naturally layer and settle. Top with a generous amount whipped cream. Consider trying something from our “Whipped Lightning” line of alcohol infused whipped toppings.

Reviver
This recipe pulls flavors from all around and it is especially good for waking up the old taste buds after a particularly rich meal.
-1 ½ oz Cles des Ducs Armagnac VSOP
-½ oz Fernet Branca
-1 oz white Creme de Menthe
Pour all the ingredients right on top of a mug of ice and give it a swirl or two with a stirring spoon. Twist a lemon peel over the top and throw a sprig of thyme on top for aromatic influence as you sip.

Have fun experimenting with these drinks and allow your inspiration to be your guide!