Looking for the perfect drink to elevate your holiday celebrations? Bourbon might just be the hero your bar cart needs. With its rich caramel notes, subtle hints of spice, and warm vanilla undertones, bourbon provides the perfect base for festive cocktails. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night by the fire, these bourbon drinks will keep your spirits bright.
Below, we’ve curated a list of must-try holiday bourbon drinks, covering classic recipes, warm concoctions, adventurous mixes, and fruity favorites. Get ready to impress your guests and savor the season!
Why Bourbon is Perfect for Holiday Cocktails
Bourbon, a distinctively American whiskey, is made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. This process infuses the spirit with flavors that are inherently festive:
- Rich Sweetness from its corn base, giving it a smooth and approachable taste.
- Caramel and Vanilla Notes from the aging process, perfect for seasonal drinks.
- Hints of Spice like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves imparted by the charred barrels.
It’s these qualities that make bourbon the ideal choice for Christmas cocktails. Whether you’re mixing up a classic Old Fashioned or experimenting with modern creations, bourbon’s versatility shines through.
Classic Bourbon Holiday Cocktails
Nothing beats a timeless cocktail, and these classic bourbon recipes are staples for a reason:
Old Fashioned
A quintessential bourbon cocktail that’s simple yet sophisticated. Combine bourbon, a touch of simple syrup, and bitters, then serve over ice with an orange twist.
Brown Sugar Old Fashioned
Elevate the traditional Old Fashioned by swapping white sugar for brown sugar. Add a cinnamon stick and orange peel for an aromatic holiday twist.
Apple Butter Old Fashioned
This cozy variation mixes bourbon with seasonal apple butter and a dash of warm spices. Perfect for sipping by the fireplace.
Mint Julep
Typically a summer favorite, this minty bourbon drink also works as a refreshing addition to holiday parties. Add a sprig of mint for a festive touch.
Cozy and Warm Bourbon Drinks
When the temperature drops, warm bourbon cocktails are here to keep you toasty. These drinks are as comforting as your favorite holiday sweater:
Hot Toddy
A classic winter warmer made with bourbon, honey, lemon juice, and hot water. It’s soothing, simple, and a crowd-pleaser.
Werther’s Hot Toddy
Add a nostalgic twist by melting Werther’s candies into your hot toddy. The caramel pairs beautifully with the bourbon’s natural sweetness.
Bourbon Chai Toddy
Spice up your bourbon with chai tea, honey, and lemon juice. The earthy chai flavors transform this drink into a mug of pure comfort.
Warm Christmas Cocktail
A rich, creamy blend of milk, coconut milk, brown sugar, vanilla, and bourbon. Topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon, this drink feels like a warm hug in a cup.
Unique and Adventurous Bourbon Cocktails
For those who love to experiment, these creative bourbon cocktails are sure to impress:
Winter Berries Cocktail
Combine dark-berry liqueur with sparkling wine and bourbon. The rich, fruity flavors are perfect for holiday celebrations.
Maple-Bourbon Smash
This lightened take on the Old Fashioned uses maple syrup and citrus for a bright and flavorful drink.
Boulevardier
A whiskey-lover’s take on the Negroni. Mix bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth for a bold, bittersweet cocktail.
Alpine Brew
Perfect for coffee lovers, this cocktail blends bourbon, coffee liqueur, cold brew, maple syrup, and walnut bitters into a caffeinated delight.
Fruity and Refreshing Bourbon Mixes
If you prefer lighter, fruit-forward cocktails, these bourbon drinks are for you:
Bourbon Apple Cider
A classic fall and winter favorite. Combine bourbon with warm or chilled apple cider for a drink that screams festive comfort.
Cinnamon Maple Bourbon Sour
This twist on a Whiskey Sour features maple syrup and cinnamon for a holiday-ready cocktail.
Tamarind Whiskey Sour
If you’re feeling adventurous, add tamarind for a sharp, sweet, and tart twist on the standard sour.
Withering Sunrise
Bourbon meets puréed mango in this tropical-inspired cocktail. While unconventional for the season, its vibrant flavors add a fun twist to holiday gatherings.
Elevate Your Holiday Gatherings with Bourbon Cocktails
Bourbon’s versatility makes it the perfect spirit for crafting cocktails that suit every festive occasion. Whether you prefer the comforting warmth of a Hot Toddy, the bold flavors of a Boulevardier, or the playful brightness of a Bourbon Apple Cider, there’s a drink here for everyone.
Don’t just take our word for it. Try these recipes at your next holiday gathering and see how bourbon elevates the season. Remember, holiday cheer tastes better in a glass filled with bourbon!
Cheers to the season!
