This weekend, the football teams from Arkansas’ two largest universities — the University of Arkansas and Arkansas State University — are meeting on the gridiron at War Memorial Stadium for the first time ever. The game is no small matchup, and it calls for some special tailgating.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with the classic cooler/ice/beer combo. Add some ready-to-drink cocktails, canned wine and seltzers for a good start.
But if you really want to wow your fellow fans, serve a from-scratch cocktail themed for the game. To prep your party, we caught up with the pros at Colonial Wines & Spirits for two batched libations to make in advance and free yourself to enjoy the game.
The Wolf Pack
Yield: 12
Ingredients:
- 750 ml. rye whiskey (George Dickel recommended)
- 375 ml. China-China liqueur
- 3/4 oz. Angostura bitters
- 3/4 oz chocolate bitters
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a pitcher and stir. Serve in a coupe glass over ice.
Hog’s Breath
Yield: 10
Ingredients:
- 750 ml. bourbon (Knob Creek recommended)
- 5 oz. lemon juice
- 2 1/2 oz. raspberry puree
Directions:
Mix all ingredients in a pitcher and stir to combine. Serve in a rocks glass over ice and garnish with a raspberry.
Check out Colonial Wines & Spirits’ tailgating party guide for more recipes and hosting tips.