Cocktails for a Cause

My DIL, Tracy - she's the wife of the Angel (click here to read that post) - belongs to a unique and fun group, LUPEC.

LUPEC stands for Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails. This group works tirelessly to breed, raise and release cocktails that are endangered or even believed to be extinct.  Now, how fun is that!?!

Besides ensuring the renewed enjoyment of classic cocktails at functions throughout the year, the Denver Chapter of LUPEC raises funding to support local and national organizations that look out for the health and welfare of women and children in the Denver Metro area.

While I was visiting a few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending LUPEC's "Breakfast for Boobs" event. A fundraiser for Susan G. Komen for the Cure affiliate in Denver.  Earlier this year LUPEC Denver held an event to raise money to buy Prom dresses for girls in need.

There are chapters of this fun organization all across the country. Click here to learn more!

And here are a few recipes for your sipping pleasure....

Bond and Lovage

5 strawberries, hulled and halved

2 oz. lovage infused Rum

1/2 oz. fresh lime juice

1/2 oz. simple syrup

1 dash bitters

1 lovage leaf for garnish

Muddle the strawberries in a cocktail shaker. Add the rum, lime, simple syrup, bitters & ice. Shake and strain into a martini glass.

Red Bell Pepper Cocktail

3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice

2 basil leaves

5 chopped seedless grapes

1 slice red bell pepper, approx. 1" thick

2 oz. vodka

3/4 oz. Creme Yvette

1/4 oz. simple syrup

Muddle together lemon juice, basil leaves, grapes, & bell pepper in a cocktail shaker. Add vodka, Creme Yvette, & simple syrup. Stir and strain into a cold old-fashioned glass with ice.

And now for my personal favorite. There is almost always a carafe of this in my fridge!

Gin and Sin

1 1/2 oz. gin

1 oz. orange juice

1 oz. lemon juice

1/2 tsp grenadine syrup

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker half filled with ice. Shake well and serve.