Valentine's Drinks: Cosmopolitan

Anyone intending to entertain needs  to know the Cosmopolitan - not just because it's sweet and easy, but because it's a default choice for the unfortunate army unaware of the joys of cocktail.  It's been the ladies drink since the 50s, recently reinforced by Sex and the City and an essential item in your romantic armory.

 

One of the first fashion-conscious drinks still in circulation, the Cosmopolitan was created for people who liked the look of Martinis but not the taste.  The Cosmo filled the same stylish glass with an easily enjoyed citrus drink, armed with the single most important factor for amateur cocktail fans: a bright silly color.

 

 

Pour it all into a shaker half-filled with ice and do what you'd think comes next.  Don't let casual conversation distract you from proper shaking, ensuring the vibrant pink the drink's known for.  If you've already had a few feel free to skip the lemon twist - nothing kills the mood like cutting your thumb off.  It's possible to "pink it up" by increasing the cranberry juice, creating a brighter and lighter drink depending on the audience, and in emergencies (or ignorant audiences) you can commit the crime of using regular vodka.  It won't be a Cosmopolitan, but as long as you up the cranberry it'll still be a drink.