The Champagne Cocktail:  Remember Casablanca?

When I think of the cinema classic Casablanca, I think immediately of Paul Henreid ordering champagne cocktails, for himself and Ingrid Bergman.

This drink, "starred" in both Casablanca and An Affair to Remember.  In both situations, those who ordered it showed impeccable taste.

The Champagne Cocktail is easy to make and a wonderful drink for sit-down dinners or casual gatherings.  I like mine on the dry side, so I use a brut champagne.  But make it your way.  If you prefer it less dry, use a sweeter sparkling wine or even an Asti spumante.  And if your barware permits, I recommend a classic champagne coupe, but it looks and tastes just as wonderful in a modern flute.  Here's how I make them:

Champagne Cocktail

1 Sugar cube (or 1 tsp granulated sugar)

Angostura Bitters

1 oz Brandy

Well chilled champagne or sparkling wine

Place the sugar at the bottom of a classic champagne coupe (or flute glass).  Add several dashes of Angostura Bitters, then add the brandy.  Slowly add the cold champagne and garnish with some lemon peel.

Tip:  If Angostura Bitters are a bit too intense, feel free to use Fee's Orange Bitters.  And if you'd like to make the version featured in An Affair to Remember, use pink champagne or sparkling wine and make the drink in a cocktail (martini) glass.