Oakham Nub News has joined forces with a regular reader to share a 'Cocktail of the Week' feature.

This week, Josh has created a Halloween themed tipple, inspired by a cocktail dating back to the Victorian era.

It is thought that the Black Velvet was invented in 1861 upon the passing of Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert.

Champagne was not an appropriate drink to mark the passing, so it was mixed with a dark beer to mirror the black mourning clothes that Queen Victoria would wear for the rest of her life.

Now, the dark cocktail is less well known than some of the classics, but is a great one for Halloween, which is quickly approaching!

Ingredients: 

• 100ml Guinness or other dark beer
• 100ml champagne or prosecco
• 25ml coffee liqueur

Method:

1. put your coupe glass in the fridge until it is cold - it should develop a layer of condensation when it is removed
2. add your dark beer - Guinness is best as it creates a thicker foam, great for supporting the garnish
3. pour the champagne over gently
4. add the coffee liqueur
5. garnish with a coffee bean

We'd only recommend one or two of these beauties, as they are strong and contain a range of alcohol. Remember, drink responsibly!

Check back next week for another Cocktail of the Week, shared each Friday to get the party started.

Alternatively, take a look at last week's cocktail feature here.