Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (for rim)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Rosemary, finely chopped (for rim)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Lime Zest (for rim)
  • 1 small Lime wedge (for moistening rim)
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for syrup)
  • 1/4 cup Water (for syrup)
  • 2 medium Fresh Rosemary Sprigs (for syrup)
  • 3 oz Tequila Blanco (Silver)
  • 1 oz Orange Liqueur (Cointreau or Triple Sec)
  • 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
  • 2 oz Unsweetened Cranberry Juice
  • 1 oz Rosemary Simple Syrup (cooled)
  • Ice, for shaking and serving
  • 2 fresh cranberries (for garnish)
  • 1 small rosemary sprig (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Rosemary Syrup (Do Ahead): Combine 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water, and rosemary sprigs in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain out the rosemary and allow the syrup to cool completely.
  2. Mix the Festive Rim: On a small, shallow plate, combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon chopped dried rosemary, and 1/4 teaspoon lime zest. Mix well to distribute the flavours evenly.
  3. Rim the Glasses: Run a lime wedge around the outer edge of the two chilled glasses. Invert the glasses and gently dip them into the sugar mixture, twisting lightly to coat only the outer edge of the rim. Set aside.
  4. Chill the Shaker: Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
  5. Measure and Combine: Add the Tequila Blanco, Orange Liqueur, fresh Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice, and the cooled Rosemary Simple Syrup to the shaker. Precision is key.
  6. The Hard Shake: Secure the lid tightly. Shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until the shaker is thoroughly frosted on the outside. This chills and slightly dilutes the cocktail perfectly.
  7. Strain and Serve: Fill the prepared, rimmed glasses with fresh ice. Double-strain the mixture into the glasses.
  8. Garnish: Thread two fresh cranberries onto a cocktail stick or simply drop them into the glass. Tuck a small rosemary sprig next to the cranberries for the final 'Mistletoe' flourish. Serve immediately.