Cocktail Pairings for Award Show Season: Sip in Style

Award season is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate the glitz and glamour than with cocktails that pair perfectly with the night’s festivities. Whether you’re hosting an elegant viewing party or enjoying a quiet evening watching the stars shine on the red carpet, these award-worthy drinks will elevate your experience. Each recipe links to SauceDB, so you can recreate these classics with ease.

Why Pair Cocktails with Award Shows?

Award shows are synonymous with luxury, indulgence, and unforgettable moments. From the red carpet fashion to the acceptance speeches, everything feels larger than life—and your cocktails should be no exception. Classic drinks, rich in history and flavor, create the perfect backdrop for a night of star-studded entertainment. And with the right pairings, you’ll have your own A-list celebration at home.

Award-Worthy Cocktail Pairings

1. 50-50 Martini

The 50-50 Martini is a refined twist on the classic Martini, ideal for an evening of sophistication. The balanced blend of gin and dry vermouth delivers a lighter, smoother sip compared to its traditional counterpart.

• Ingredients:

  • Gin: 1 ½ oz
  • Dry Vermouth: 1 ½ oz

• Pair With: Light appetizers like smoked salmon canapés, cheese platters, or shrimp cocktails.

2. French 75

The French 75 is the ultimate sparkling cocktail, perfect for toasting the big winners of the night. With its effervescent champagne base and bright citrus notes, it brings celebratory vibes to any gathering.

• Ingredients:

  • Gin: 1 ½ oz
  • Sugar: 2 tsp
  • Lemon Juice: 1 ½ oz
  • Champagne: 4 oz
  • Garnish: Orange Slice and Maraschino Cherry

• Pair With: Popcorn drizzled with truffle oil or parmesan, or gourmet sliders.

3. Kir Royale

A fruity, sparkling cocktail that’s both simple and luxurious, the Kir Royale is perfect for raising a toast to your favorite stars.

• Ingredients:

  • Creme de Cassis: ½ oz
  • Champagne: to top

• Pair With: Fruit-forward desserts like macarons or berry tarts.

4. Champagne Cocktail

A timeless classic, the Champagne Cocktail is simple yet elegant—perfect for a night of award show glamor.

• Ingredients:

  • Champagne: 1 bottle
  • Sugar: 1 lump
  • Bitters: 2 dashes
  • Lemon Peel: 1 twist

• Pair With: Brie and cranberry bites, or strawberries dipped in dark chocolate.

5. Blood and Sand

Named after the 1922 film, the Blood and Sand is a cocktail rich in Hollywood history. This scotch-based classic blends sweet, citrusy, and smoky flavors.

• Ingredients:

  • Scotch: ½ oz
  • Orange Juice: 1 tbsp
  • Cherry Brandy: ½ oz
  • Sweet Vermouth: ½ oz

• Pair With: Savory snacks like meatballs or sliders.

6. Boulevardier

For those who enjoy bold, complex flavors, the Boulevardier is a must-try. This whiskey-based twist on the Negroni brings warmth and sophistication.

• Ingredients:

  • Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: 1 oz
  • Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz
  • Campari: 1 oz
  • Orange twist (for garnish)

• Pair With: Charcuterie boards featuring rich cheeses and cured meats.

7. Golden Dream

The Golden Dream is a creamy, citrus-forward cocktail with a luxurious twist. Perfect for dessert or a nightcap.

• Ingredients:

  • Orange Juice: 1 oz
  • Galliano: ¾ oz
  • Triple Sec: ¾ oz
  • Cream: 1 oz

• Pair With: Light desserts like panna cotta or vanilla cheesecake.

Host Like a Star

With these cocktails, your award show party will be the toast of the evening. Whether you’re enjoying the crisp simplicity of a 50-50 Martini or the creamy indulgence of a Golden Dream, there’s something here for every palate. Explore more in our Cocktail Category for even more award-worthy options.

Cheers to sipping in style!