Japanese Spirits Expert Yuri Kato concocted this Cherry Blossom Cocktail to celebrate the start of cherry blossom season – a wonderful time in April when "sakura" trees in Japan sprout beautiful pink flowers. It's a tradition there to sit underneath the trees and watch – it's a tradition here to toast to a Friday night with a yummy cocktail!

Ingredients:

2 oz  Sake

½ tsp Umeshu, a traditional Japanese plum liqueur

1 tsp Lemon juice

Sparkling Wine

Maraschino cherry for garnish

Preparation:

1. Stir sake, umeshu, and lemon juice in a mixing glass with ice. Strain into a Champagne flute.

2. Top with sparkling wine, garnish with a maraschino cherry, and serve.

Check out more of Yuri's Japanese Cocktails, or browse our own Recipe File for more delicious drinks.