Three cocktails with real panache

Special moments deserve special attention

Finally getting to see and celebrate with loved ones who live far away. Long, lazy brunches that last until cocktail hour. Five courses of memories and laughter, no dress code required. These are the big and small moments that make the holidays such a magical time of year. 

After two years of unparalleled times and subdued celebrations, why not kick off the festivities (or cap off the evening) in style with a cocktail that’s got a little something extra? Even though there’s no shortage of things to talk about, one sip and the conversation will flow like wine. Cheers to the joy of being together again!

To make the most of time with your guests, simplify your life with this recipe that’s perfect for having company over. (And it’s a great opportunity to dig out the punch bowl that you keep “just in case” every time you move.) To whip up this winter wonderland Cosmo, swap citrus liqueur for almond liqueur and garnish each glass with frozen cranberries. 

Let your guests serve themselves—and, for a little extra flair, put your martini glasses in the freezer before they arrive and decorate each glass with a sprig of rosemary as the final step.

The crowning touch: If you use a punch bowl with cups, identify each one with bows, ribbons or tinsel. Put some cranberries and a couple rosemary springs into the bowl to add a festive pop!

Make taste buds sing with this revamped martini. Here, maple whisky liqueur dances a jig with spiced rum, while cloves and cranberry two-step around this cocktail that’s all about holiday magic. 

The crowning touch: Rim your glasses with maple sugar and drop a cinnamon stick into the drink. Make each glass distinct by attaching small decorations or different coloured baubles to the stem using twine or string.

As its name suggests, the Christmas Star shines bright like a diamond among holiday cocktails. Bubbly, pomegranate juice, and apple vodka make for wintertime in a glass. It’s easy to imagine sipping one as you decorate the tree or serving it at cocktail hour instead of the traditional Kir Royale. A sure winner!

The crowning touch: To make it even more festive, garnish each glass with thin curls of orange and lemon peel. And play some old-fashioned carols in the background as you serve up this tasty holiday beverage! 

Cheers!