8 Festive Christmas Whiskey Cocktails To Try

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a delicious Christmas whiskey cocktail? Whiskey is a classic wintertime drink, perfect for sipping by the fireplace or serving at your holiday gatherings. In this article, we'll explore eight festive Christmas whiskey cocktails to try, each with its own unique flavor profile and twist.

From traditional whiskey-based drinks to more modern creations, these recipes are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you're a fan of smoky, spicy, or sweet flavors, we've got you covered. So, grab your mixing glass and let's dive into the world of Christmas whiskey cocktails!

The History of Whiskey in Holiday Traditions

Whiskey has a long history of being a part of holiday traditions, particularly in the United States and Europe. In the 18th and 19th centuries, whiskey was a staple in many American households, often served at social gatherings and special occasions. The drink was also popular in Ireland and Scotland, where it was enjoyed during the cold winter months.

As the holiday season approached, people would gather around the fireplace to share stories, sing carols, and enjoy a warm glass of whiskey. The tradition of drinking whiskey during the holidays was also influenced by the fact that it was a way to stay warm and cozy during the cold winter nights.

Whiskey's Revival in Modern Holiday Cocktails

In recent years, whiskey has experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly in the world of craft cocktails. Bartenders and mixologists have been experimenting with different types of whiskey, combining them with a variety of flavors and ingredients to create unique and delicious holiday cocktails.

From bourbon to scotch, rye to Irish whiskey, the options are endless. Whether you're a fan of classic whiskey-based drinks or more modern creations, there's a Christmas whiskey cocktail out there for everyone.

8 Festive Christmas Whiskey Cocktails to Try

Here are eight festive Christmas whiskey cocktails to try this holiday season:

1. Spiked Eggnog

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz eggnog
• 1/2 oz maple syrup
• 1/2 oz nutmeg syrup
• Pinch of ground nutmeg

Combine bourbon, eggnog, maple syrup, and nutmeg syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a coupe glass. Sprinkle with ground nutmeg.

2. Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned

• 2 oz smoked bourbon
• 1/2 oz cherry liqueur
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel (for garnish)
• Cherry (for garnish)

Combine smoked bourbon, cherry liqueur, simple syrup, and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir until chilled and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange peel and cherry.

3. Whiskey Gingerbread Man

• 2 oz Irish whiskey
• 1/2 oz gingerbread syrup
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• 1/4 oz honey syrup
• Whipped cream (for garnish)
• Nutmeg (for garnish)

Combine Irish whiskey, gingerbread syrup, lemon juice, and honey syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a coupe glass. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with nutmeg.

4. Cranberry Orange Sparkler

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz cranberry juice
• 1/2 oz orange liqueur
• 1/4 oz simple syrup
• Splash of sparkling wine
• Orange wheel (for garnish)
• Cranberries (for garnish)

Combine bourbon, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a wine glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling wine and garnish with an orange wheel and cranberries.

5. Spiced Apple Cider Mule

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz apple cider
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 1/4 oz ginger beer
• 1/4 oz allspice dram
• Lime wheel (for garnish)
• Sprig of rosemary (for garnish)

Combine bourbon, apple cider, lime juice, and ginger beer in a copper mug filled with ice. Add a splash of allspice dram and stir until chilled. Garnish with a lime wheel and sprig of rosemary.

6. Peppermint Mocha Martini

• 2 oz Irish whiskey
• 1/2 oz peppermint schnapps
• 1/2 oz Kahlúa
• 1/4 oz heavy cream
• Crushed candy canes (for garnish)

Combine Irish whiskey, peppermint schnapps, Kahlúa, and heavy cream in a shaker filled with ice. Shake until chilled and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with crushed candy canes.

7. S'mores Old Fashioned

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1/2 oz chocolate mole bitters
• 1/2 oz marshmallow syrup
• 1/4 oz graham cracker syrup
• Graham cracker crumbs (for garnish)
• Marshmallow (for garnish)

Combine bourbon, chocolate mole bitters, marshmallow syrup, and graham cracker syrup in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir until chilled and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with graham cracker crumbs and a toasted marshmallow.

8. Holly Berry Spritz

• 2 oz prosecco
• 1 oz cranberry juice
• 1/2 oz lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/4 oz Grand Marnier
• Splash of bourbon
• Lime wheel (for garnish)
• Cranberries (for garnish)
• Rosemary sprig (for garnish)

Combine prosecco, cranberry juice, lime juice, simple syrup, and Grand Marnier in a wine glass filled with ice. Add a splash of bourbon and stir until chilled. Garnish with a lime wheel, cranberries, and a sprig of rosemary.

We hope you've enjoyed these eight festive Christmas whiskey cocktails to try this holiday season. Whether you're a fan of classic whiskey-based drinks or more modern creations, there's something on this list for everyone. So, grab your mixing glass and get creative!