What I’m Drinking Now: Nicole Haarklau and The Cosmo

Nicole Haarklau is corporate director, food & beverage operations at Coury Hospitality.

My go-to cocktail is always a Cosmopolitan. The Cosmo is a classic for a reason — it’s elegant and sophisticated, and a perfect balance of sweet, tart and refreshing.

It is a great pre-dinner or Happy Hour drink because it’s an easy cocktail to make your own, and vodka is incredibly versatile, which is why there are countless different variations of the Cosmo found in bars and restaurants around the country. For example, at Coury Hospitality’s restaurants, you can find the 726 Cosmo at Vast OKC, made with cinnamon syrup and pineapple, or the Bomb City Cosmo at Paramount Recreation Club, made with Bomb City Vodka, cucumber and St. Germain elderflower liqueur, or the Dizzy Dame at Dockum, made with strawberry-infused vodka.

My Cosmo recipe is a bit unique from the classic as I only make them with white cranberry juice and garnish with an orange peel, instead of the traditional cranberry with lime. The vodka you use is important! Using a high-quality vodka, such as Grey Goose, is key to making a well-balanced Cosmo.

And just like with wine, the glass you use really does matter! Use a proper Martini glass and don’t forget to chill it before pouring your Cosmo. The wide rim and shape of the glass helps develop the aromas and enhance the flavors of the cocktail, while the long stem helps control the temperature and keep it chilled for a crisp, refreshing sip every time.

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