Happy Holidays {with Gray Whale Gin}

There are so many things that make me love the holidays and even though this year just isn’t quite the same, we are determined to continue with as many traditions as we can. I’ve been sharing some of my favorite traditions on my Instagram stories which include homemade potpourri in my mini crockpot. The smell of oranges and cinnamon just make me so happy. I also always have Christmas songs playing and turn on the Christmas lights on as soon as the sun starts to go down. But we can’t forget the tradition of making yummy cocktails. We don’t have our usual group of friends around to enjoy them with, so cocktails party of two coming up.

Geoff and I purchased the perfect space saving bar cart to use this season. Although it is tiny, the three shelves provides the perfect amount of surface area for our necessities along with some decor.

I wanted to make the bar cart festive for the holiday and thought I’d share it with you all. Starting with the items I “need” placed; including cocktail ingredients, decanter and glasses, S.Pellegrino for more cocktails and a cocktail shaker to name a few.

From there I started adding some decorative trees and greenery that continue on with the overall aesthetic I have throughout my home.

I loved the idea of a cascading garland look, so I searched for the ideal two branches I had from the “free section” at our local Christmas tree lot. Using the tiny 3M command hooks, I was able to secure the garland to the cart.

I then decided that adding a layered in bead garland provided the perfect mix of contrast and interest to the greenery. I had made this garland last year using wood beads I found on Etsy and Baker’s twine. It is such an easy DIY.

Add a velvet ribbon and some pinecones and voila. Festive bar cart ready for some cocktail making.

I decided to make a Negroni with my Gray Whale Gin which not only is yummy, but has the most amazing backstory to its flavors. Gray Whale Gin has flavors that tell of the journey that the Gray Whale takes during it’s migration. From the citrus aroma of Baja to the juniper of Big Sur and the subtle hint of fir trees from Sonoma. Followed by fresh mint from Santa Cruz and sea kelp from the Mendocino Coast. Finished off by a lasting almond flavor from the Central Valley. It is a beautifully curated mix of flavors.

Now lets make a classic Negroni. It is a super simple cocktail full of lovely flavors. You’ll need:

1- oz Gray Whale Gin

1-oz Campari

1-oz Sweet Vermouth

ice cube(s)

orange peel for garnish

Combine all three ingredients, add ice, stir and garnish. Now enjoy!

Thank you Gray Whale Gin for giving me the opportunity to try your amazing product. From one ocean loving family to another, we love your mission.