The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the excitement of festive cocktails that can elevate any gathering. This year, we’re stepping beyond the classic eggnog and exploring a variety of delightful drinks that incorporate spices, citrus, and vibrant garnishes, making your December celebrations truly special.
These cocktails are perfect whether you’re hosting a formal dinner, a casual friends gathering, or just looking to unwind with a cozy drink. The selections range from rosemary-infused martinis that evoke memories of a winter garden to a spicy mangonada that captures a tropical vibe. Each drink is tailored to impress, with flavors that soothe or surprise, ensuring that every sip feels festive.
Here’s a rundown of some delicious recipes to try:
Rosemary-tini
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 oz Staple Gin
- 3/4 oz dry vermouth
- 1-2 dashes of orange bitters
- Splash of olive brine
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
Directions: Muddle rosemary and olive brine in a shaker. Add gin, vermouth, and bitters; add ice and stir. Double strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with rosemary and a lemon twist.
Oy to the World
Available at: Blitzen’s Bar, Omni Hotels & Resorts
Ingredients:
- 0.5 oz Ilegal Mezcal
- 1.5 oz Patron Silver Tequila
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 1 oz Cheeky Hot Honey / Apricot Syrup
Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice, garnishing with a chocolate coin bag.
Spicy Mangonada
Ingredients:
- 2 fl oz Captain Morgan Sweet Chili Lime
- 4 oz frozen mango
- 0.5 fl oz agave
- 0.5 fl oz fresh lime juice
- Chamoy sauce and Tajín for garnish
Directions: Blend all ingredients. Rim a glass with chamoy and Tajín, pour in the cocktail, and serve.
The Mean Green Martini (Matcha Martini)
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Bombay Sapphire
- 0.5 oz white crème de cacao
- 0.5 oz vanilla syrup
- 1 oz oat milk
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 6 mint leaves
Directions: Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Cinnamon Saddle
Available at: Desert 5 Spot DC
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz bourbon
- 0.5 oz Licor 43
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz spiced cinnamon syrup
- Splash of cranberry juice for color
Directions: Shake and pour over ice in a highball glass. Garnish with cranberries and a rosemary sprig.
Negroni Royale
Ingredients:
- 1½ oz gin
- 1½ oz Campari
- ¾ oz red (sweet) vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 oz sparkling wine
- Lemon twist for garnish
Directions: Mix first four ingredients in a glass with ice. Squeeze an orange wedge over it, stir well, top with sparkling wine, and garnish.
Holiday Blizzard
Ingredients:
- 0.5 oz Mijenta Tequila Blanco
- 0.25 oz white crème de cacao
- 1 oz roasted coconut cream
- 0.25 oz cinnamon syrup
- 2-3 dashes chocolate bitters
Directions: Shake with ice and serve in a highball glass with crushed ice.
Cranberry Bourbon Mule
Available at: The Dominick
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz bourbon
- 0.5 oz cranberry syrup
- 4 oz ginger beer
Directions: In a mule mug filled with ice, combine all ingredients and garnish with fresh cranberries and a rosemary sprig.
The Leave-Me-Alone Toddy (Hot Toddy)
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Aberfeldy 12
- 0.5 oz honey syrup
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 4-5 oz hot water
Directions: Warm the glass, stir ingredients together, and garnish with spices and a lemon wheel.
Enjoy mixing, shaking, and sipping these delightful cocktails, perfect for spreading holiday cheer!