This holiday season, embrace the warmth and magic of Christmas and New Year by indulging in exquisite cocktails that elevate your celebrations. Whether you’re gathered around the fireplace with loved ones, toasting new beginnings with friends, or creating unforgettable memories with family, these cocktail recipes are crafted to add a touch of elegance and joy to your festive moments.

From classic concoctions with a modern twist to innovative flavours that tantalise the taste buds, these drinks are designed to complement the spirit of the season. Raise a glass to the festive cheer, the laughter, and the heartfelt moments that make this time of year truly special. Crafted by Alcobev experts and mixologists at Diageo, these cocktails reflect a commitment to quality and sophistication, ensuring your celebrations are nothing short of extraordinary.

Check out five holiday-inspired cocktail recipes:

Snowman’s Sour

The Snowman’s Sour is a winter-inspired cocktail that combines the smoothness of whicky with the warmth of all-spice syrup and the zesty freshness of lime. A touch of aromatic bitters adds complexity, while a foaming agent creates a velvety texture, giving the drink a frothy, snow-like appearance. The crowning glory is a delicate float of red wine, adding depth and colour reminiscent of a winter sunset. Garnished with a sprig of rosemary, the Snowman’s Sour offers a harmonious blend of flavours, perfect for cosying up on a cold winter’s evening. It is a festive and flavourful drink that combines the smooth, mellow taste of whisky with ingredients evoking the spirit of the beginning of a New Year.

Ingredients:

50ml Whisky

20ml Orange & Rosemary Cordial

20ml Fresh Lime Juice

3 dashes Foaming Agent

2 dashes Aromatic Bitters

Method:

Shake all the ingredients well and serve in an old-fashioned glassware.

Garnish with red wine float and rosemary sprig. 

Winter Wonderland Martini

The Winter Wonderland Martini is a decadent and comforting cocktail that blends the rich smokiness of whisky with the bold flavour of espresso and the indulgence of chocolate. The addition of vanilla cream foam creates a smooth, luxurious texture, while a dusting of nutmeg adds a warm, spiced finish. This cocktail offers a perfect balance of depth and sweetness, evoking the cosy, festive feeling of a winter escape, making it an ideal choice for those looking to savour the season in a glass.

Ingredients:

50ml Whisky

30ml Espresso

15ml Chocolate Syrup 

Method:

Shake all the ingredients together and pour in a coup glassware.

Garnish with vanilla cream foam with grated nutmeg on top.

Mistletoe Mule

The Mistletoe Mule is a festive twist on the classic mule, combining the crispness of vodka with the tart, floral notes of hibiscus and cranberry, balanced by the zing of fresh lime and the refreshing effervescence of ginger beer. Served in a traditional mule mug over crushed ice, it’s garnished with dried cranberries in an ice basket and a sprig of mint and a fresh maraschino cherry, adding both visual appeal and aromatic freshness. This vibrant cocktail is the perfect holiday drink, offering a refreshing and flavourful sip that captures the spirit of the season.

Ingredients:

50ml Vodka

15ml Hibiscus Syrup

30ml Cranberry Juice

5ml Fresh Lime Juice

80ml Gingerbeer

Method:

Shake all the ingredients together and pour into a copper mule grass.

Garnish with a crushed ice basket filled with dried cranberries and fresh maraschino cherry on top, fresh mint springs. 

Gingerbread Glow

The Gingerbread Glow is a warming, festive cocktail that combines the smooth depth of whisky with the comforting sweetness of gingerbread syrup and a blend of spices. Hot water and apple juice create a soothing, balanced base, while the gingerbread cookie garnish adds a delightful, holiday-inspired touch. This cosy drink is the perfect way to embrace the winter season, offering rich flavours that evoke the warmth and charm of a gingerbread-scented holiday home.

Ingredients:

30ml Whisky 

20ml Gingerbread Syrup

15ml Almond Liqueur

30ml Apple Juice

80ml Hot Water

Method:

Shake all the ingredients together and pour into a kullad (clay mug).

Garnish with gingerbread cookie. 

New Year's Resolution

The New Year’s Resolution is a cosy, indulgent hot, buttered whisky cocktail that blends the rich, smooth flavour of whisky with a homemade spice and vanilla butter, creating a comforting, aromatic base. Hot water brings everything together, while a generous topping of whipped cream adds a creamy finish. The glass is rimmed with cinnamon sugar, enhancing the warmth and sweetness of the drink. Served in an Irish mug, this cocktail is the perfect warm treat for cold nights, offering a festive and soothing way to welcome the new year.

Ingredients:

50ml Whisky fat washed with spiced butter

80ml Falernum Syrup

10ml Hot Water

Method:

Shake all the ingredients together and serve in a Irish coffee mug.  

Garnish with almond biscotti and cinnamon sugar rim.