DrinkWire is Liquor.com’s showcase for the best articles, recipes and reviews from the web’s top writers and bloggers. In this post, The Frosted Petticoat offers a peony-inspired cocktail.

Besides food and drink items, I have a very short list of ‘favorites’. Two things that are permanent features of said ‘favorites list’ are peonies and upstate New York. Peonies are the most fabulous flower on earth… don’t argue with me, their fabulosity has been scientifically proven. Upstate New York is stunningly gorgeous and one of the best places in America. I know this because I used to live on the East Coast and every weekend I could be found traversing the scenic roads of that gorgeous land. So, when I was asked if I would like to sample and create a cocktail for Peony Vodka from the Hudson Valley, it was a no brainer. Hell. Yes. In no time I was mixing up a Peony Royale.

Before we get to the recipe, let me introduce you to this lovely boutique brand. Three Meadows Spirits is the genius behind Peony Vodka. Not only have they infused the spirit with the flowery essence, they do it out of a historic 18th century farm that is nestled in the peony fields of upstate New York’s Hudson Valley. Created to celebrate the pastoral tranquility of country life, Peony Vodka hits their mark dead in the eye. It is quite literally, the best flavored vodka I have ever had the pleasure of sampling. The spirit is a blend of nine natural ingredients: tincture of peony, geranium, jasmine, white pepper, gardenia, green tea, and vanilla. I don’t normally think of vodka as a sipping spirit, but this certainly can stand on it’s own. I highly suggest enjoying an unadulterated dram of this flowery liquid, but if you’re looking for a killer cocktail recipe to mix it in, then why not try this out…

Peony Royale

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 ounces of Peony Vodka
• 1/2 ounce of Cointreau
• 1 1/2 ounces of cherry juice
• 1/2 ounce of lime juice
• Champagne

DIRECTIONS

1. Add all the ingredients, except the champagne, to a cocktail shaker with an ice cube. Shake sharply.
2. Pour into the glass and top with champagne.
3. Garnish & enjoy!

Peony Vodka is exquisite and stands alone in the flavored vodka movement. What other cocktails would you like to add a bit of Peony Vodka to?

For more cocktail recipes, visit The Frosted Petticoat's ‘Drinks’ section here!