The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and the roar of the crowd is back! That can only mean one thing: football season is in full swing, and it's time to elevate your game day experience. Whether you're tailgating with friends or hosting a watch party at home, the right cocktail can turn a good game into a great one.
At BottleStork, we believe in bringing you the best, and that includes curated recommendations for your spirited celebrations. We've put together three winning cocktail recipes featuring some of our favorite bottles that are guaranteed to score big with your guests.
1. The "Gridiron Glory" Old Fashioned featuring Knob Creek 9 Year Bourbon
When it comes to a classic game day sipper, nothing beats a robust Old Fashioned. And for that, we turn to the deep, rich flavors of Knob Creek 9 Year Bourbon. Aged to perfection, this bourbon brings notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, making it the perfect foundation for a sophisticated yet easy-drinking cocktail.
Ingredients:
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1/2 oz simple syrup (or 1 sugar cube)
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2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
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Orange peel for garnish
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Large ice cube
Instructions:
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If using a sugar cube, place it in an old-fashioned glass, add bitters, and muddle. If using simple syrup, combine bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters in the glass.
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Add a large ice cube (or several regular cubes).
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Stir gently for about 30 seconds until well-chilled and slightly diluted.
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Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink by twisting it, then drop it in for garnish.
Why it scores: This drink is smooth, flavorful, and perfect for sipping slowly as the game unfolds. It's a timeless classic that appeals to every bourbon lover.
2. The "Touchdown Tequila Sunrise" featuring Maracame Plata Tequila
Looking for something a bit brighter and more vibrant to match the excitement of a nail-biting play? Our "Touchdown Tequila Sunrise" with Maracame Plata Tequila is your go-to. This tequila is celebrated for its clean, crisp agave notes, making it incredibly versatile and perfect for colorful, refreshing cocktails.
Ingredients:
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4 oz orange juice
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1/2 oz grenadine
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Orange slice and a cherry for garnish
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Ice
Instructions:
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Fill a highball glass with ice.
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Add the Maracame Plata Tequila and orange juice.
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Slowly pour the grenadine over the back of a spoon, allowing it to sink to the bottom to create the "sunrise" effect.
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Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
Why it scores: The vibrant colors alone are a win, but the refreshing blend of tequila and citrus makes this an irresistible drink for any game day celebration, especially during an afternoon kickoff.
3. The "Spicy Kickoff Mule" featuring Bird Dog Hot Cinnamon Whiskey
Every game day needs a bold play, and the Spicy Kickoff Mule delivers. Powered by the fiery warmth of Bird Dog Hot Cinnamon Whiskey, this cocktail blends sweet apple notes and zesty ginger beer for a drink that’s as exciting as a 60-yard touchdown run. It’s refreshing, spicy, and guaranteed to fire up the crowd.
Ingredients:
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3 oz hard apple cider
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0.5 oz fresh lime juice
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Top with ginger beer
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Cinnamon stick or apple slice for garnish
Instructions:
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Fill a mule mug or tall glass with ice.
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Add Bird Dog Hot Cinnamon Whiskey, apple cider, and lime juice.
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Top with ginger beer and give it a gentle stir.
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Garnish with a cinnamon stick or apple slice.
Why it scores: This cocktail brings the heat with cinnamon spice, balanced by crisp apple and lively ginger fizz. It’s the ultimate fall drink to keep spirits high no matter what the scoreboard says.
Final Whistle: Celebrate Game Day the BottleStork Way
From the smooth, classic Gridiron Glory Old Fashioned to the vibrant Touchdown Tequila Sunrise, and the bold, fiery Spicy Kickoff Mule, these cocktails are designed to take your football season gatherings to the next level.
So stock up, mix up, and toast to every kickoff, first down, and touchdown with BottleStork. After all, great cocktails are the real MVP of game day.