COCKTAILS FOR A CROWD - APPLE ROSEMARY PUNCH

If you're having guests over, it's just the worst when you're stuck playing bartender. I'm always on the hunt for a great batch cocktail that you can make ahead of time, and simply pour in a glass once your guests arrive.

Having some houseguests recently, I got to play around with a few recipes, and this one was a clear winner. This serves about 10 generous pours, so double or triple based on your guest count - I can promise they'll want more than one glass.

APPLE ROSEMARY PUNCH

6 cups fresh apple cider (no added sugar)
1/2 cup of rosemary simple syrup
Juice of 1 lemon
1 bottle of sparkling wine - a sweet prosecco works well

Combine the first three ingredients in a large pitcher or punch bowl. Save the prosecco until right before your guests arrive - you want it to be bubbly, not flat. If you plan to serve throughout the evening, just top off each glass with a generous pour of the prosecco.

For extra credit - I froze a few pomegranate arils in ice cubes. They add a nice holiday color to the glass.

Cheers!