Appletini Gifts
Despite the name, Appletinis share almost nothing in common with martinis, save the presentation. The light green blend of vodka, tart apple and sweet sugar is traditionally served in a martini glass, hence the somewhat misleading name. Because the ingredients in these cocktails lend themselves well to gift-giving, it is easy to surprise the cocktail lover in your life with a present that celebrates her favorite drink.
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DIY Appletini Kit
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In a large bucket or basket, gather together the basic appletini ingredients, sans vodka, for a DIY Appletini Kit. Purchase a bottle of pre-made appletini mix, or make your own by combining equal parts apple schnapps, simple syrup and apple juice. This homemade concoction will need to be refrigerated and may not have the same neon-green color as pre-made mixes. Make an appletini rimming sugar by pouring 1/2 cup plain white sugar into a shallow resealable dish and adding three to four drops of green food coloring. Stir quickly with a toothpick to color the sugar. Pair with two or three fresh apples for garnish.
Decorative Accessories
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Personalized drink accessories are an appropriate gift, especially for at-home appletini makers. Have your recipient's initials or favorite phrase/word professionally etched into a cocktail shaker or set of martini glasses. For a less personalized gift, find drink accessories that are adorned with apples to remind the recipient of the fruity drink. Apple-shaped ice cube trays and decorative drink stirrers in glass or metal can accompany these gifts.
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Vodka
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A bottle of vodka, the main ingredient in appletinis, is a thoughtful gift for a recipient who already owns a high-quality shaker and martini glasses. As of 2011, top-shelf vodkas can cost upwards of $100 for a large bottle, and should be reserved for special-occasion gifts. An unusual alternative to expensive brands is apple-flavored vodka. Apple-flavored vodka has been released under several brand names and usually costs around $25 for a 750ml bottle.
Virgin Appletinis
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Appletini gifts are not limited to only those who drink alcohol. If your gift is intended for someone who doesn't drink alcohol due to age, religious beliefs or personal choice, put together a virgin appletini kit. Combine store-bought appletini mix, rimming sugar, garnishes and, if desired, a martini glass or shaker. Include a 2-liter bottle of club soda or clear pop, as well as a recipe for virgin appletinis that replaces the vodka with equal parts soda.
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