Charlotte Shakes Up the Holidays with Festive Cocktails!
The holidays are upon us, and in Charlotte, there’s no better way to spread cheer than with a glass in hand filled with delicious, festive cocktails. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or enjoying a solitary evening nestled by the tree, a unique drink, made from seasonal ingredients, can elevate the experience!
Make Your Party Shine with These Delightful Recipes
This holiday season, local mixologists have shared some of their favorite recipes, making it both easy and fun to whip up these delightful drinks right at home. From a whimsical Mint Julep to a rich Sangria, let’s dive into these incredible cocktails that are sure to impress your guests and elevate your celebrations.
Mint Julep with a Peppermint Twist
First up, we have a lovely Mint Julep reimagined by local legend, Bob Peters, the beverage director at Built on Hospitality. This classic Southern favorite is given a whimsical upgrade with a touch of peppermint!
- 2 oz of Southern Star Standard Bourbon
- 1 oz of peppermint tea syrup
- Peppermint candy and fresh mint leaves for garnish
Preparation: Combine all the ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake it up! Strain it into a cute julep cup filled with crushed ice, then finish with a sprinkle of peppermint and a sprig of mint!
South American Fusion Cocktail
Next, we head to Latin America with a cocktail from Chaz Smith of Calle Sol! His beverage showcases a blend of Peruvian flavors! Get ready for a fun twist that carries the essence of holiday spirit.
- 1.5 oz Caravedo Quebranta Pisco
- 1.5 oz sour mix
- 0.5 oz chicha morada corn syrup
- 1 egg white
Preparation: Shake and strain all the way to the coupe glass, adding a dash of aromatic bitters for an extra touch.
A Rosy Pear Bloom
Now for something a bit floral and fresh: the Rosemary Pear Bloom cocktail! Taylor Redd, lead mixologist at Pour Mixology, has a special for the holidays that balances flavors beautifully.
- 2 oz St-Germain
- 1 oz pear juice
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 oz club soda (optional)
Preparation: Muddle rosemary in a shaker, then add the other ingredients, shake well, and strain over fresh ice. For a bubbly twist, top it off with club soda or sparkling wine!
Son of a Nutcracker
If you’re into the holiday spirit from your favorite movie, you’ll want to try Annie Stevenson’s Son of a Nutcracker. This cocktail pays tribute to Buddy the Elf!
- 4 dashes mole bitters
- 0.5 oz Cardamaro
- 0.5 oz pecan orgeat
- 1.5 oz bourbon
Preparation: Stir these ingredients over ice for around 15 to 30 seconds, then serve over ice in a stylish rocks glass, garnished with a candy pecan!
Seasonal Sangria That Packs a Punch!
And for those who love sipping while surrounded by friends, Savannah Witt from Roots Cafe has cooked up a big-batch Sangria that’ll warm your spirits!
- 1 granny smith apple, chopped
- 2 pears, sliced
- ½ cup whole cranberries
- ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tangerines, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cinnamon syrup
- 2 bottles of deep red wine
- (Optional) 6 to 8 bottles of sparkling water for fizz
Preparation: Combine your fruits and spices, mix in the liquids, and let it steep in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours for maximum flavor!
Bringing it All Together
With these fabulous, fun, and festive cocktails up your sleeves, consider your holiday gatherings taken to the next level! So gather your friends, mix up a few of these delightful recipes, and toast to good times spent together this holiday season—in true Charlotte style!
