Patricia Noonan drinks like a TIFF star at The Ritz…

It’s that schmoozing time of year again and time for me to choose bars TIFF Illuminati are going to be drinking at. The Ritz-Carlton Toronto, recently hosted me for a preview of what they plan to serve to the stars and star gazers.

Head barman Courtney Messam anticipates TIFF with excitement. His cocktails are creatively named this year.

The Ghostwriter is a juicy riff on a margarita, using Casamigos Blanco Tequila, lime juice, blood orange juice, blood orange syrup and egg whites, shaken and strained straight up.

The Extended Edition is a champagne cocktail styled with Grey Goose vodka, Averna Amaro, a splash of pomegranate molasses, lemon juice and topped with Louis Roederer Champagne, then topped with an edible flower.

There are several more, including a temperance cocktail called the Rising Star which make use Citrus Seedslip, the latest in non-alcoholic liqueurs.

Luxury Experiences at Deq Lounge are champagne and caviar or oyster pairings, with different Louis Roederer Champagnes to give you that A-List celebrity feel. The offerings include Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire or Diamond experience with glamorous prices to match. Do I detect a Liz Taylor influence with these luxury pairings? Sounds glam…but then that’s the way to `put on the ritz.

Cheers and Happy stargazing!

Patricia Noonan is a Toronto based food and drinks writer and educator. Follow her on Twitter at @lovetoeatndrink.