Flavors of the Season: Spices, Fruits, and Herbs to Use in Holiday Drinks

The holiday season is a time of warmth, nostalgia, and indulgence, and the flavors we use in cocktails reflect that spirit. From the aromatic allure of winter spices to the tart sweetness of seasonal fruits, each ingredient brings its own festive charm to the glass. Pair these flavors with the richness of fine spirits, and you have the recipe for holiday magic.

Here’s how to incorporate spices, fruits, and herbs into your holiday drinks, along with cozy cocktail recipes perfect for sipping by the fire.

Winter Spices: Warmth in Every Sip

Spices are the heart of holiday cocktails, adding depth, complexity, and a touch of nostalgia.

Essential Spices for Holiday Cocktails

• Cinnamon: Perfect for mulled wine, spiced margaritas, or as a garnish on creamy drinks.

• Clove: Ideal for infusions, hot toddies, or a spiced syrup that complements bourbon or rum.

• Star Anise: A beautiful garnish with a subtle licorice flavor, great for martinis or mulled cider.

• Nutmeg: Best grated fresh, it’s a must-have topping for eggnog or warm cocktails.

• Allspice: Adds a hint of peppery sweetness to syrups, punches, or rum-based drinks.

Seasonal Fruits: Tart and Sweet Notes

Fruits like cranberries, pomegranates, and figs bring vibrant color and flavor to holiday drinks.

How to Use Seasonal Fruits

• Cranberries:

  • Muddle fresh cranberries for a tart base in margaritas or gin cocktails.

  • Simmer into a syrup with sugar and water for a bright, festive sweetener.

• Pomegranates:

  • Use pomegranate juice as a base for spritzers or champagne cocktails.

  • Garnish with pomegranate seeds for a sparkling, ruby-red finish.

• Figs:

  • Muddle fresh or dried figs in bourbon or rum cocktails for a rich sweetness.

  • Create a fig-infused simple syrup for elevated seasonal flavor.

Pro Tip: Freeze cranberries or pomegranate seeds in ice cubes for a stunning garnish that keeps your drinks cool.

Herbs: Aromatic Elegance

Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme are more than just garnishes—they’re essential ingredients for infusions and aromatic enhancements.

Herbs to Elevate Your Holiday Cocktails

• Rosemary:

  • Use as a garnish in tequila or gin drinks. Lightly torch the sprig for added aroma.

  • Infuse into simple syrup for a savory-sweet note in lemon-based cocktails.

• Thyme:

  • Perfect for whiskey sours or cranberry-based drinks.

  • Pair with honey for a warm, herbal syrup ideal for toddies or punches.

• Mint:

  • A fresh twist on classic holiday drinks like mojitos or juleps.

  • Combine with chocolate liqueur for a decadent winter treat.

Cocktails by the Fireplace: Warm Drinks to Keep You Cozy

1. Spiced Rum Hot Toddy

A classic winter warmer with a holiday twist.
Ingredients:

• 2 oz spiced rum

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1/2 oz lemon juice

• Hot water

• Garnish: Cinnamon stick and lemon wheel

Method:
Combine rum, honey, and lemon juice in a mug. Top with hot water and stir gently. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and lemon wheel.

2. Pomegranate Mulled Wine

A rich, fruity take on the traditional mulled wine.
Ingredients:

• 1 bottle red wine

• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice

• 1/4 cup brandy

• 1/4 cup sugar

• Spices: 2 cinnamon sticks, 4 cloves, 2 star anise

• Garnish: Orange slices and pomegranate seeds

Method:
Combine all ingredients in a pot. Heat gently (do not boil) and simmer for 20 minutes. Strain and serve warm, garnished with orange slices and pomegranate seeds.

3. Fig and Bourbon Old Fashioned

A sophisticated cocktail for fireside sipping.
Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon

• 1/2 oz fig syrup (made by simmering figs, sugar, and water)

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters

• Garnish: Orange twist and dried fig

Method:
Stir bourbon, fig syrup, and bitters with ice. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist and a dried fig.

Elevate Your Holiday Celebrations

Crafting cocktails with seasonal spices, fruits, and herbs turns every sip into a celebration. To make your holiday gatherings truly memorable, consider booking a private mixologist from Art of the Cocktail.

• What We Offer: Custom cocktail menus, interactive demonstrations, and professional bartending to bring your vision to life.

• Learn More: Join our Art of the Cocktail class on December 20th to discover tequila-based holiday cocktails featuring festive flavors like cinnamon, pomegranate, and rosemary.

Cheers to the Flavors of the Season

The holidays are a time to embrace rich, comforting flavors that bring people together. With these spices, fruits, and herbs, you can craft cocktails that are as festive as they are delicious. So light the fire, mix a drink, and toast to a season filled with warmth and good cheer.