New Year’s Eve Wild Blueberry Cocktails

New Year’s Eve means it is time to break out the champagne, but what about getting a little adventurous with your alcoholic options this year? Portland, Maine bartender Andrew Volk of the Portland Hunt and Alpine Club mixes in Wild Blueberries for a punch and cocktail worthy of any celebration.

And, remember - Wild Blueberries have twice the antioxidants and 50% more fiber than the larger blueberries giving individuals more of what they need to combat disease and promote healthy aging. Since Wild Blueberries only grow naturally in Maine and eastern Canada, the best place to find them is in your grocer’s frozen fruit section.

Serve these with finger-friendly snacks like nuts, cheese platter, homemade Chex mix, meatballs (vegan or meat), pizza, and homemade tacos. It is always a good idea to put out plenty of food when people will be drinking so they have something to help absorb the alcohol. 

Have a fun New Year’s Eve and all the best in 2014!!

Mexican Blueberry Punch 

Peel the lemons into a heat proof punch (or mixing bowl). Add the sugar to the peels and muddle. Let rest for at least two hours, occasionally stirring. Juice lemons. Dissolve sugar/oil mixture with hot water. Add blueberries, lemon juice, and tequila. Chill. Top with soda to taste. 

Shake all ingredients with ice. Fine strain into a Collins glass. Fill with ice. Top with sparkling wine. Garnish with lemon twist and more blueberries.