Southern Cocktails Dixie Drinks, Party Potions, and Classic Libations

The cocktail hour has long been a cherished tradition of the south, a relaxing way to wind down after a stressful day and enjoy the conversation of friends and family before preparing heading to dinner. For many this tradition is still embraced and, in fact, celebrated, with an increasing variety of cocktails and perhaps an appetizer or two. In Southern Cocktails, you'll discover the favorites found south of the Mason-Dixon line. Start with theClassic Mint Julep and move on to the New Orleans favorite, the Hurricane. If you want to get a little more festive you can shake up some Blueberry Martinis, Peach Mojito, or the ultimate -the Scarlett O'Hara, an edgy little cocktail with a hit of Southern Comfort. There are plenty of crowd-pleasing punches for when you invite everyone over and a few more-refined concoctions such as Champagne Punch or the Blackberry Cordial. If you'd prefer not to drink on an empty stomach, a variety of nibbles including Beer-Battered String Beans with Remoulade, Devilish Eggs, or Crab Louis Cocktail should hold you over until your late night dinner.

Denise Gee is a native of Natchez, Mississippi, and has written for Southern Living and Better Homes and Gardens. She and her husband, Robert M. Peacock, live in Dallas.

Robert M. Peacock, whose work has appeared in Southern Living, lives in Dallas.