Turkey is okay.
Gingerbread is all right, too.
But if you ask us, the best part of any Holiday menu comes in liquid form.
If you’re hosting a get-together this season, one of the keys to making it memorable – or not: wink, wink, nudge, nudge – is the drinks you serve. (A sexy Santa suit never hurts either, though.)
So instead of the usual beer and champagne, why not get creative with your offerings.
‘Tis the season for giving, after all.
Mulled Wine
Dust off your Crock-Pots, friends, ‘cause this one only gets better the more it cooks. A stainless steel pot works, too, but either way, you’ll need to mix together these ingredients, bring them to a boil, then let them simmer for at least 15 minutes before serving:
2 bottles of Chianti or other Italian red wine
A handful of cloves (about 20)
1-2 oranges, sliced
4-6 cinnamon sticks
2 star anise (optional)
¼ cup honey
3oz brandy (optional)
The Chocolate Orange
The elation of opening your stocking on Christmas morning to finally get to smack and crack that citrusy ball of chocolate is easier to achieve in a cocktail than you might think. In a tumbler, with ice, combine these ingredients, stir, and voila:
1.5oz Baileys
1oz Grand Marnier
A drizzle of chocolate syrup to taste
Boozy Apple Cider
This one is about as simple and delightful as it gets. Make it en masse or one at a time; warm or over ice; the options are endless for this adult version of a childhood favourite. The dark liquor (or liqueur) you choose is up to you: spiced rum, whiskey, bourbon, or even maple liqueur. Whatever your flavour, this is one you’ll savour. Sprinkle it with cinnamon and there’s no way you’ll have a lonely Christmas.
Jack Frost
You can probably guess by the malevolent sound to the name that this one is a shot. To be a bit kinder to your guests, shake it over ice – but an equal pour of the two deliciously sinister ingredients on their own will do the trick, too. A few of these and you’ll be having your most forgettable holiday yet.
Whiskey (We prefer Gentleman Jack)
Peppermint Schnapps
#NOTABLE
Want more updates on the most Notable things happening so you know before your colleagues do? Get our exclusive newsletter here and follow us on Twitter for all the latest.