Yes, it is that time of year again. Store windows are dressed with cutout cupids. Chocolate stores are filling up with heart-shaped boxes of joy. But for many, this Valentine’s Day is just another reminder that they have gone another year as a single. So, raise a glass – single or not – to all the ones you love, or want to love. Or raise a glass and toast your independence!
Here are three drinks, ranging from a warm chocolate cocktail that is perfect to cozy up to on a cold winter night to a flaming cranberry cooler for those who need to let off some steam after having their heart broken. Finally, we have a rhubarb spritzer for those optimists who think warmer spring days are just around the corner.
(NewBostonPost photo by Beth Treffeisen)
The Burning Heart
Ingredients:
1. Bacardi Rum 151
2. Cranberry juice
3. Fresh lime
4. Vodka
5. Strawberries, cut into quarters
Instructions:
1. Pour a ½ shot of vodka in a glass
2. Squeeze in fresh lime juice to taste
3. Fill ¾ of the glass with cranberry juice
4. Add strawberries for garnish
5. Mix ingredients together
6. Slowly pour Bacardi 151 onto the top of the drink, making sure to not mix it to create a thin layer
7. Use a lighter to ignite the top of the drink
8. Serve carefully!
(NewBostonPost photo by Beth Treffeisen)
The Sweet Emotion
Ingredients:
1. Strawberries
2. Crème de cocoa
3. Kahlua coffee liquor
4. Cinnamon
5. Almond milk
6. Whiskey of your choosing
Instructions:
1. Pour shot of whiskey into a small saucepan
2. Add two shots Kahlua
3. Add one shot crème de cocoa
4. Add stick of cinnamon
5. Add 2 cups almond milk
6. Whisk ingredients together
7. Place on stove over low-medium heat until warm
8. Place in your favorite mug
9. Garnish with strawberry slices and cinnamon stick
10. Enjoy!
1. Pour cup of frozen rhubarb in blender
2. Add lime juice to taste
3. Put 2 cups water, rosemary stem and teaspoon of sugar into separate saucepan. Heat until boiling.
4. Slowly pour mixture into blender
5. Add a shot of whiskey
6. Blend all ingredients together until smooth
7. Strain mixture into the glass you plan to serve
8. Add seltzer to the top
9. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary
10. Enjoy!
(NewBostonPost photo by Beth Treffeisen) 
