Valentine’s Cocktails

Light some candles, put on some music, and shake up a little romance. Here are a couple of cocktails, specially for Valentine's Day.

The Valentine is a beautiful, deep garnet colour. It has a pleasing sweet/tart balance. The pomegranate juice it contains is loaded with antioxidants which may help lower both bad cholesterol and blood pressure. What better drink for Valentine's Day?

• 1½ oz. gin
  
• 1 oz. pomegranate juice
  
• 1 oz. grenadine
  
• ½ oz. lemon juice
  
• Ice
  

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake sharply for 30 seconds. Strain into a martini glass.

The Sweetheart makes an ideal dessert, or is simply for those who like sweet or creamy cocktails. Chocolate and raspberry are perfect partners.

• 1 oz. chocolate-flavoured liqueur (Bailey's, for example)
  
• 1 oz. raspberry liqueur (Southbrook Framboise or Chambord)
  
• 1 oz. vodka, preferably from the freezer
  
• Ice
  

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake sharply for 30 seconds. Strain into a martini glass.

To all lovers, Happy Valentine's Day.

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