The Old Fashioned stands as one of the oldest known cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. It emerged as a response to the rising popularity of elaborate, sweetened cocktails. The name itself reflects the “old-fashioned” method of simply enjoying spirits with sugar and bitters.

The Old Fashioned, a timeless classic, receives a cozy makeover with the Gingerbread Old Fashioned. Swapping out the traditional sugar cube for the rich, spiced notes of gingerbread syrup transforms this iconic drink into a comforting and nostalgic sipper. It’s like wrapping yourself in a holiday sweater – warm, familiar, and utterly delightful.

Food Pairing

Old Fashioned: Aged Gouda and walnut platter.
The complex flavors of an Old Fashioned find a perfect match in the nutty and savory notes of aged Gouda, creating a sophisticated tasting experience.

Gingerbread Old Fashioned: Dark chocolate truffles.
The warm spices in the cocktail harmonize with the rich, decadent flavors of dark chocolate, creating a luxurious and indulgent combination.

Take a detour from the ordinary and embark on a flavor journey with the Cranberry Mojito. This creative twist introduces the tartness of cranberries into the classic Mojito mix, resulting in a refreshing and visually stunning drink. The vibrant red hue mirrors the festive spirit, making it a perfect addition to your Christmas celebrations.

Mojito: Shrimp ceviche.
The refreshing citrus and mint flavors of the classic Mojito complement the bright and zesty notes of shrimp ceviche, creating a delightful harmony that is perfect for a summer gathering or a light and vibrant appetizer during the holidays.

Cranberry Mojito: Goat cheese and cranberry crostini
The tartness of the cranberry in the cocktail complements the creamy goat cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors on your palate.

When the chill of winter sets in, cozy up with a Nutmeg Hot Toddy. The addition of ground nutmeg to the traditional Hot Toddy recipe brings a warm and comforting spice, turning this soothing concoction into a sensory experience. Sip by the fireplace and let the aromatic blend transport you to a winter wonderland.

Food Pairing

Hot Toddy: Cinnamon apple galette.
The warm and comforting spices of the Nutmeg Hot Toddy find a delightful companion in the sweet and spiced flavors of a cinnamon apple galette. This pairing creates a cozy and comforting experience, reminiscent of a festive winter dessert, making it an ideal combination for sipping by the fireplace on a chilly evening.

Nutmeg Hot Toddy: Spiced apple pie.
The comforting spices in both the cocktail and the pie create a cozy and nostalgic pairing, reminiscent of a festive winter dessert.

The White Russian, emerging in the mid-20th century, achieved pop culture status, thanks to its association with “The Dude” in the film “The Big Lebowski.” Comprising vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream, it offers a smooth and indulgent flavor.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Gingerbread White Russian is a delectable variation on the classic White Russian. The addition of gingerbread syrup turns this creamy cocktail into a sweet symphony that will satisfy your dessert cravings. It’s indulgence in a glass, perfect for festive indulgence.

Food Pairing

White Russian: Coffee and hazelnut opera cake.
The coffee undertones in the White Russian complement the rich layers of a coffee-infused opera cake, making for an elegant and harmonious dessert pairing.

Gingerbread White Russian: Pecan pie.
The gingerbread spices in the cocktail complement the nutty richness of pecan pie, resulting in a harmonious blend of holiday flavors.

The Moscow Mule originated in the 1940s, conceived through a marketing collaboration between a vodka distributor, a ginger beer maker, and a copper mug manufacturer. The iconic choice of the copper mug was strategic, known for its ability to keep the drink exceptionally cold.

Adding a zesty kick to the Moscow Mule, the Cranberry Mule is a vibrant and flavorful alternative. The tartness of cranberry juice complements the ginger beer and lime, creating a drink that’s not only visually appealing but also irresistibly tasty. Serve it in copper mugs for an extra festive touch.

Food Pairing

Moscow Mule: Smoked salmon canapés.
The crisp and refreshing nature of the Moscow Mule contrasts beautifully with the richness of smoked salmon, offering a delightful palate cleanser.

Cranberry Mule: Brie and cranberry tartlets.
The zesty cranberry notes in the cocktail pair wonderfully with the creamy brie, creating a festive appetizer that mirrors the drink’s vibrancy.

The art of cocktail presentation is as important as the flavors within the glass. Elevate your festive concoctions with thoughtful garnishes and carefully chosen glassware. Consider the following tips to make your Christmas cocktails visually stunning:

Garnishes That Wow

Consider these tips to make your Christmas cocktails visually stunning:

• Cinnamon Sticks: Add a touch of warmth and aroma.
• Edible Flowers: Elevate the elegance of your drink.
• Fresh Cranberries: Float them for a burst of color.
• Candy Canes: Infuse a sweet and minty kick to your cocktail.
• Mint Sprigs: Enhance freshness and visual appeal.
• Citrus Twists: Express the oils for a fragrant zest.

Tailored Glassware

The choice of glassware is crucial in complementing the unique characteristics of each cocktail:

• Mule Mugs: Ideal for Moscow Mule and Cranberry Mule, keeping drinks crisp and cold.
• Old Fashioned Glasses: Perfect for the Gingerbread Old Fashioned, allowing the aromas to unfold.
• Highball Glasses: Suited for the refreshing Cranberry Mojito, showcasing its vibrant colors.
• Wine Glasses: ideal for spritz cocktails, allowing the effervescence to shine.
• Martini Glasses: Enhance the sophistication of your drinks.
• Coupe Glasses: Add a touch of vintage glamour to your classic cocktails.

Remember, the right garnish and glassware not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to the overall drinking experience. So, let your creativity shine as you adorn your festive cocktails with these delightful presentation tips!