It’s the coziest time of the year! Tis the season to celebrate the little things that bring us all together.

The simple act of spending time with loved ones is the most important part of the holidays. So make plans to mix up your favorite drinks and say “Cheers!” in your favorite way.

Whether nestling and savoring the warmth of home with a small intimate crew, gathering around an outdoor fire pit toasting marshmallows and sentiments, or opting for a virtual celebration with friends near and far, here are some colorful ideas for festive holiday cheer. 

BOSTON SOUR (ORANGE YOU GLAD)

A twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, the Boston Sour dates back to the late 1800’s. The original recipe was designed to prevent scurvy on naval ships by adding Vitamin C to easily available provisions – think of it as sunshine in a glass! Learn more about the drink’s colorful history. 

This coastal-inspired cocktail is a variation of the 3-ingredient Whiskey Sour recipe (citrus, alcohol, and simple syrup), with the simple addition of an egg white for a smoother texture and fun froth on top. 

RECIPE

Dry shake all ingredients (in cocktail shaker without ice), then add ice and shake another 30 seconds. Pour over ice block in Double Old Fashioned Glass and garnish with an orange wedge and cocktail cherry. We like Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. Bourbon Cocktail Cherries. 

GRASSHOPPER (IT IS EASY BEING GREEN!)

The Grasshopper is an old-school after-dinner drink that’s as pretty as it is tasty. The minty green cocktail is unapologetically sweet, and meant to be sipped slowly. Who wouldn’t smile when presented with a drinkable version of mint chocolate chip ice cream!

RECIPE

Add ingredients to cocktail shaker with plenty of ice, cover and shake until chilled. Strain into martini glass and garnish with shaved chocolate. 

BLUE CHRISTMAS (IN A GOOD WAY)

This drink is low in calories and sugar, but high in antioxidants and taste. While there are lots of blueberry-flavored vodkas available, we like handcrafted Cold River Blueberry Vodka made from wild Maine blueberries and 100% Maine potatoes. 

RECIPE

Muddle blueberries and keep a few for garnish. Add ice, vodka, lemon juice and club soda to Double Old Fashioned Glass. Top with dash of bitters and garnish with rosemary sprig.

MULLED WINE (RED WITH A TWIST)

Mulled wine is a delicious warm beverage, perfect for sipping by the fireplace our outdoor fire pit. We prefer making it inside because your whole house will smell heavenly!

RECIPE 

First prep the oranges by cutting into rounds. Combine half the orange slices and all other ingredients in a saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until simmering (not boiling), reduce heat to low and simmer about 10 minutes. That’s it! Garnish with orange slices, star anise, and cinnamon sticks.

PINK PUNCH (MOCKTAILS FOR ALL!)

This pretty pink punch is a crowd pleaser for kids and adults alike. The refreshing beverage is easy to make and adds a festive flair to any gathering. We’ve also found that grown ups like it even better when spiked with a splash of vodka or champagne!

RECIPE

Fully chill all ingredients and mix in a punch bowl with ice. Top with pomegranate seeds. Serve in pretty glasses and garnish with rosemary. 

We hope you find these seasonal cocktails delightfully easy to make, and even more delightful to share. A joyful “Cheers!” with those you hold dear is a time-honored tradition that means more than ever this year.