Discover unique regional holiday drinks and their stories. Sip responsibly and celebrate with creativity this festive season!
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When the festive season rolls around, it’s time to deck the halls, light the tree, and—of course—enjoy some incredible Christmas cocktails. Across the globe, different cultures have their own spin on festive drinks, and trying them is a delicious way to experience the holiday magic. From warming mugs of Glühwein in Germany to the tropical allure of Fijian kava, there’s a world of flavours waiting to be explored. Here’s a deep dive into some of the most iconic holiday cocktails and how you can recreate them at home—complete with recipes!
1. Glögg (Scandinavia)
What is it?
Let’s talk Glögg, a spiced, mulled wine perfect for chasing away the chills. This ain’t your average warm plonk, mind you. Glögg, pronounced a bit like “glug,” is a traditional Nordic beverage, especially popular around Christmas time.
It’s typically made with red wine, though sometimes brandy or other spirits are added for an extra kick. The real magic, though, is in the spices. Think cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, and ginger – the sort of warming spices that make you feel all cosy inside. Often, orange peel and raisins or blanched almonds are thrown in for a bit of sweetness and texture.
The mixture is gently heated – never boiled, as that’ll ruin the flavour – allowing the spices to infuse the wine. Served warm in small mugs or glasses, Glögg is more than just a drink; it’s a social ritual, shared with mates and family during the festive season.
Recipe:
- 750ml red wine
- 50ml vodka or brandy (optional)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 cardamom pods
- 5 whole cloves
- 50g sugar
- Handful of raisins and blanched almonds
Method:
- Heat the wine gently in a pot—don’t let it boil.
- Add the spices, sugar, raisins, and almonds.
- Let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Stir in vodka or brandy if desired.
- Strain and serve warm in mugs.
2. Ponche Navideño (Mexico)
What is it?
This ain’t your typical fruit punch; it’s a hot, spiced drink steeped in tradition, especially during Las Posadas, the nine nights before Christmas.
Think of it as a hug in a mug. The base is a fruity broth, simmered with all sorts of goodies. You’ll find tejocotes – little yellow fruits native to Mexico – along with guavas, apples, sugarcane, prunes, and oranges. Sometimes they chuck in pears, raisins, or even tamarind for extra flavour.
But the real magic is in the spices. Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise infuse the punch with a warm, aromatic kick. Piloncillo, a type of unrefined cane sugar, sweetens the deal and adds a rich, molasses-like flavour. Everything simmers away gently, letting the flavours meld together beautifully.
Some folks add a splash of rum or brandy for an extra bit of warmth. Served hot in mugs with chunks of fruit, Ponche Navideño isn’t just a drink; it’s a symbol of togetherness and sharing during the festive season.
Recipe:
- 5 guavas (quartered)
- 2 apples (sliced)
- 5 tejocotes (or small pears)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 100g piloncillo (or brown sugar)
- 2 litres water
- 50ml rum (optional)
Method:
- Bring water to a boil and add cinnamon and piloncillo.
- Add the fruits and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in rum if desired.
- Serve warm in heatproof mugs.
3. Glühwein (Germany)
What is it?
Think of it as the ultimate winter warmer, perfect for those chilly nights.
Glühwein literally translates to “glow-wine,” referring to the hot, steaming nature of the drink. It’s traditionally made with red wine, though you might find white wine versions too. The key is the blend of aromatic spices: cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise are the usual suspects, giving it that characteristic festive aroma. Sometimes they’ll add citrus peel – orange or lemon – for a bit of zing.
Unlike some mulled wines, Glühwein is often sweetened, usually with sugar, adding to its cosy, comforting vibe. It’s gently heated – never boiled, as that can ruin the flavour and evaporate the alcohol – allowing the spices to infuse the wine. Served piping hot in mugs, Glühwein is more than just a drink; it’s a social occasion, enjoyed with mates at Christmas markets or around a warm fire.
Recipe:
- 750ml red wine
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 cloves
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 50ml rum (optional)
Method:
- Combine all ingredients in a pot.
- Heat gently for 20 minutes—don’t let it boil.
- Strain and serve hot in festive glasses.
4. Masala Chai (India)
What is it?
This ain’t your average builder’s brew; it’s a fragrant, warming concoction that’s enjoyed all over India, from bustling city streets to quiet mountain villages. “Masala” simply means “spice mix,” and “Chai” means “tea,” so it’s literally spiced tea.
The base is strong black tea, usually a robust Assam or Darjeeling. But the real magic is in the masala. The spice blend can vary from region to region and even family to family, but common ingredients include cardamom pods (essential!), cinnamon sticks, cloves, ginger, and black peppercorns for a bit of heat. Some variations might include nutmeg, star anise, or fennel seeds.
These spices are either simmered directly with the tea and water, or ground into a powder and added later. Milk is then added, creating a creamy, comforting drink. Often, a bit of sugar or honey is stirred in for sweetness. Masala Chai isn’t just a drink; it’s a cultural experience, often shared with friends and family. So, if you’re looking for a flavour adventure in a mug, give Masala Chai a go
Recipe:
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tsp black tea leaves
- 2 cardamom pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1-inch ginger (sliced)
- 2 tsp sugar
Method:
- Boil water with spices to release their flavours.
- Add tea leaves and milk, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Strain and serve hot.
5. Eggnog (USA)
What is it?
Eggnog is a rich, chilled, creamy drink traditionally served around Christmas time in the United States. It’s made with milk, cream, sugar, whipped eggs (which give it a frothy texture), and spices like nutmeg and sometimes vanilla. Often, it includes alcohol like rum, brandy, or bourbon.
Eggnog’s history can be traced back to medieval Britain, where a warm milk and ale drink called “posset” was popular. Over time, eggs and spices were added, and the drink evolved into what we know as eggnog. It became especially popular in the American colonies, where ingredients like rum were readily available. George Washington even had his own eggnog recipe!
While store-bought eggnog is common, many people make it from scratch. There are also variations, like non-alcoholic versions or those with different spices or sweeteners. Whether you love it or hate it, eggnog is a quintessential part of American Christmas traditions.
Recipe:
- 4 egg yolks
- 100g sugar
- 500ml milk
- 250ml cream
- 50ml bourbon or rum
- Grated nutmeg
Method:
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar until creamy.
- Slowly add milk and heat gently while stirring.
- Cool, then mix in cream and alcohol.
- Sprinkle with nutmeg and serve chilled.
6. Pisco Sour (Peru)
What is it?
The Pisco Sour is a classic cocktail that hails from Peru, and it’s considered the national drink of the country. It’s a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and a touch of bitterness, with a unique frothy texture. The Pisco Sour is more than just a drink in Peru; it’s a symbol of national pride and a social ritual often enjoyed during celebrations and gatherings.
Recipe:
- 60ml Pisco
- 30ml lime juice
- 20ml simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Handful of cranberries
Method:
- Shake Pisco, lime juice, syrup, and egg white vigorously.
- Strain into a glass and garnish with cranberries.
7. Cranberry Margarita (USA)
What is it?
A tart and festive cocktail, perfect for a Christmas toast. The Cranberry Margarita is a festive twist on the classic Margarita, perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a slightly tart and fruity cocktail. It combines the traditional Margarita ingredients with the vibrant color and tartness of cranberry juice.
Recipe:
- 60ml tequila
- 30ml cranberry juice
- 15ml lime juice
- 15ml triple sec
Method:
- Shake all ingredients with ice.
- Serve in a salt-rimmed glass and garnish with lime.
8. Hot Buttered Rum (USA)
What is it?
A rich, warming drink with a hint of spice. Hot Buttered Rum is a warm, comforting, and spiced drink that’s particularly popular in the United States during the colder months. It’s a rich and flavorful concoction that’s perfect for cozy nights and holiday gatherings.
Hot Buttered Rum has a long history in the United States, dating back to colonial times. It was a popular drink in taverns and homes alike, especially during the winter months. It experienced a resurgence in popularity in the mid-20th century and remains a beloved winter warmer today.
Recipe:
- 30ml dark rum
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- Pinch of cinnamon
Method:
- Mix butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a mug.
- Add rum and boiling water.
- Stir well and serve warm.
9. Sgroppino (Italy)
What is it?
A refreshing Italian cocktail made with prosecco and lemon sorbet. Sgroppino is a refreshing and palate-cleansing Italian drink that’s often served as a digestif or between courses during a multi-course meal. It’s particularly popular in the Veneto region of Italy, where Venice is located.
Sgroppino is more than just a drink; it’s a refreshing and elegant way to cleanse the palate between courses, especially during rich meals. It’s also a delightful dessert cocktail, perfect for ending a meal on a light and refreshing note. Its combination of sweet, tart, and bubbly makes it a truly enjoyable Italian treat.
Think of it as a boozy, citrusy sorbet float.
Recipe:
- 2 scoops lemon sorbet
- 50ml vodka
- 150ml prosecco
Method:
- Blend sorbet and vodka.
- Pour prosecco into a flute and top with sorbet mix.
10. Mulled Cider (UK)
What is it?
A fruity, spiced cider that warms you up on chilly nights. Mulled cider is a classic autumnal and winter warmer, particularly popular in the UK. It’s a spiced, heated cider that’s perfect for chilly evenings and festive gatherings. Think of it as the cider equivalent of mulled wine.
Recipe:
- 1 litre apple cider
- 1 orange (sliced)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 cloves
- 50ml brandy
Method:
- Heat cider with spices and orange slices.
- Stir in brandy and serve warm.
11. Kava (Fiji)
What is it?
A ceremonial drink made from kava root, known for its relaxing properties. Kava is a traditional drink with significant cultural importance in Fiji and other Pacific Islands. It’s made from the ground root of the Piper methysticum plant and is known for its relaxing and mildly psychoactive effects.
In Fiji, kava is called “yaqona” (pronounced yang-GO-na) and plays a central role in social and ceremonial gatherings. It’s often consumed in a formal ceremony called a “yaqona ceremony,” which involves specific protocols and traditions.
It’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when participating in a kava ceremony in Fiji. If you have the opportunity to experience it, it can be a fascinating and insightful cultural experience.
Recipe:
- 1 tbsp kava powder
- 1 cup water
Method:
- Mix kava powder and water.
- Strain through a cloth and serve.
12. Coquito (Puerto Rico)
What is it?
Coquito is a traditional Christmas drink from Puerto Rico. It’s a rich, creamy, coconut-based beverage often referred to as “Puerto Rican eggnog,” though it doesn’t always contain eggs. It’s a staple during the holiday season, shared with family and friends.
The base of coquito is a blend of coconut milk, cream of coconut, and sweetened condensed milk, which creates a thick and luscious texture. White rum is a key ingredient, giving it a festive kick. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes vanilla are added for warmth and aroma.
While the classic recipe uses these core ingredients, variations exist. Some recipes include eggs for an even richer consistency, while others might add spices like cloves or ginger. Some people also use different types of rum, such as dark rum or spiced rum, to alter the flavor profile.
Coquito is typically made by blending all the ingredients together until smooth and then chilling it in the refrigerator. It’s served cold in small glasses or shot glasses, often garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.
Recipe:
- 400ml coconut milk
- 200ml condensed milk
- 50ml white rum
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Method:
- Blend all ingredients.
- Chill and serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
13. Irish Coffee (Ireland)
What is it?
A bold and boozy coffee drink for holiday mornings. Irish Coffee is a warm and comforting cocktail that perfectly blends the boldness of Irish whiskey with the rich flavor of coffee and the smoothness of cream. It’s a classic drink with a fascinating history, often enjoyed as an after-dinner treat or a winter warmer.
The generally accepted story of its origin takes us to Ireland in the 1940s. A bartender named Joe Sheridan, working at the Foynes Port near Limerick (a stopover for transatlantic flights), is said to have created the drink to warm up weary passengers on a cold winter night. He reportedly added whiskey to their coffee and topped it with cream, and when asked if it was Brazilian coffee, he replied, “No, it’s Irish coffee.”
Recipe:
- 200ml brewed coffee
- 30ml Irish whiskey
- 1 tsp sugar
- Whipped cream
Method:
- Mix coffee, whiskey, and sugar.
- Top with whipped cream.
14. Kir Royale (France)
What is it?
A sparkling cocktail with a hint of sweetness. Kir Royale is a popular choice for celebrations and special occasions due to its festive appearance and refreshing taste. It’s also a great alternative for those who find straight Champagne too dry. The drink is named after Félix Kir, a mayor of Dijon in post-war France, who popularized the drink (originally made with local white wine) as a way to promote local products. When Champagne was used instead of white wine, it became known as Kir Royale.
Recipe:
- 150ml champagne
- 10ml crème de cassis
Method:
- Pour crème de cassis into a flute.
- Top with champagne.
15. Tinto de Verano (Spain)
What is it?
Tinto de Verano, meaning “summer red wine,” is a refreshing and simple Spanish drink perfect for hot weather. It’s a mix of red wine and a fizzy, sweet soda, most commonly lemon-flavored. Think of it as a lighter, less boozy version of sangria.
Traditionally, it’s made with equal parts red wine and “gaseosa,” a slightly sweet, lightly carbonated soda similar to lemon-lime soda or even club soda with a touch of sugar. Nowadays, many people use lemon-flavored sodas like Fanta Limón or Sprite for convenience.
Tinto de Verano is incredibly popular in Spain, especially during the summer months. It’s easy to make at home and is often served in bars and restaurants as a casual, refreshing drink. It’s typically served over ice with a slice of lemon or orange for garnish.
While sangria is more well-known internationally, Tinto de Verano is often the drink of choice for locals in Spain.
Recipe:
- 150ml red wine
- 150ml soda water
- Lemon slices
Method:
- Mix wine and soda water in a glass.
- Garnish with lemon.
This holiday season, why not take your taste buds on a global adventure? Whether you’re savouring the warm spices of Glühwein, sipping a tart Cranberry Margarita, or embracing the creamy indulgence of Coquito, there’s something magical about these festive drinks. Cheers to a merry Christmas filled with delicious memories!
Thanks for joining us behind the bar! Whether you’re crafting for yourself or shaking things up for friends, remember: it’s not just about the drink, but the memories we make while we sip. Keep experimenting, keep pouring with love, and don’t forget to check back at Shake, Sip, Serve for more inspiration. Cheers to the next round!
Your Favourite Bartender KAD xo
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