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A Rainbow of Flavor
Tastes in Technicolor

Q: I am having a "Colorful Cocktails" spring soiree with various hors d 'oeuvres and drinks of various colors (Midori, etc.). What are your favorites in the shades of red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple?

-- Carolyn, Los Angeles California

A: There are a number of spirits, mixers and illusions that will make this gathering unforgettable.

Spirits

DeKuyper and Bols market schnapps in a variety of colors and flavors. My favorite is Curacao, a citrus liqueur which is a tasty substitute for Triple Sec or Cointreau and available in an assortment of colors.

Here's the rainbow spirits guide:
Purple: red wine, Framboise (raspberry), Fraise (strawberry), Cassis (black currant)
Blue: Blue Curacao
Green: Midori, Pisang Ambon, Green Creme De Menthe, KeKe Beach, Chartreuse
Yellow: Marie Brizard Banana, champagne, Limoncello, Lemoncello, Galliano
Orange: Marie Brizard Melon, Marie Brizard Mango, Alize, Tropico, Extase
Red: Chambord, Alize Red Passion, Remy Red, After Shock, Zambello Sambuca Rossa, Kriek (cherry)

Nonalcoholic Mixers

Jello provides a vibrancy in color (and texture, when mixed as a jiggler shooter). Kool Aid has been a staple at college parties forever, just don't forget to add the sugar. New power drinks like Powerade and Gatorade provide interesting shades while fruit juice blends from Fruitopia and Fruit Works offer exotic flavor and hue.

Some lively nonalcoholic mixes include:
Purple: grape juice, fruit punch
Blue: not in nature
Green: not in nature
Yellow: pineapple juice, apple juice, pear juice, lemon juice, lime juice
Orange: mango juice, peach nectar
Red: cranberry juice, cherry juice, tomato juice, grenadine

Illusions

One bartender trick is to prep shot glasses with tiny drops of food coloring ahead of time. Then line them up in front of your guests (they usually don't notice the spots) and amaze them with your ability to change a clear liquid into colored beverage!

Cheers!
Miss Cocktail