Eat, drink and be merry: that is the much-chanted mantra of Christmas revellers everywhere. Tis the time of year when cracking open a bottle of bubby before midday is, for a few giddy days, nothing in the least eyebrow-raising. But, should you be flagging or tiring of the merry-go-round of fizz, wine and mulled concoctions, it could be time to shake things up with a festive cocktail. These warming pick-me-ups are just the thing – we like ours heavily spiced and, ideally, as pretty as a picture.



Christmas Spiced Negroni


Olive Magazine
Christmas Spiced Negroni

A Negroni is always a good idea – and, what’s more, its vivid red already looks pretty festive even without any tinkering. However, tinker we shall, because who can reasonably resist more in the way of spice at this time of year? This seasonal twist on the classic cocktail is infused with warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, thus bringing together the bitterness of Campari with the richness of gin and sweet vermouth. Perfectly balanced and brimming with festive cheer, it’s a sophisticated sip to toast the season, whether at a party or a cosy night by the fire. Get the recipe.


White Christmas Mojito


Delish
White Christmas Mojito

Dreaming of a white Christmas? This creamy, coconut-infused twist on the classic mojito is little short of a festive showstopper. With refreshing lime, mint, and a hint of sweetness, it’s elevated by velvety coconut milk for a wintery touch. Topped with sparkling soda and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds, it’s as elegant as it is luxe (and, of course, delicious). Get the recipe.


Festive Rum & Ginger Punch


BBC Good Food
Festive Rum & Ginger Punch

Add some sparkle to your celebrations with this Festive Rum & Ginger Punch. A perfect balance of spiced rum, fiery ginger beer, and zesty orange, it’s a seasonal warmth-infused crowd-pleaser. As pretty as it is delicious, this ultimate winter warmer is ideal for parties and for getting everyone into the festive spirit with minimal effort but maximum cheer – which is exactly what we’re after. Get the recipe.


Gingerbread Old Fashioned


I Am Baker
Gingerbread Old Fashioned

Give your classic cocktail a festive makeover with this Gingerbread Old Fashioned. Rich, warming, and full of seasonal spice, it blends bourbon with a homemade gingerbread syrup for a drink that’s both cosy and sophisticated (we’d drink ours by the fire, ghost story in hand). A dash of bitters and a cinnamon stick tie it all together, making it the perfect, warming thing to slurp post-wintry walk. Get the recipe.


Spiced Sidecar


Olive Magazine
Spiced Sidecar

This Spiced Sidecar, a warming twist on the timeless classic, will instantly take your cocktail game up a notch or two. Infused with cinnamon and cloves, this drink marries the zesty brightness of lemon juice with the rich depth of cognac and orange liqueur. The spiced sugar rim adds a luxe, festive touch, making it the perfect choice for Christmas entertaining or an indulgent winter’s evening. Sophisticated, seasonal, and effortlessly elegant, this is a festive sip to savour (or indeed slurp). Get the recipe.