If you ask us…’tis always the season for cocktails. But at this time of year, we like to lean into the flavors of late fall, winter, and all things holiday to perfectly—festively—match your fête. The truth is, every single one of the cocktails we’re about to share can be enjoyed any time of year—but one of our superpowers is finding unique ways to translate your unique tastes, event themes, and the season into menus that perfectly match the moment. Thus, below, we share exactly that, for cocktails to get you into the holiday party-planning spirit—from Thanksgiving through the New Year—along with ideal foodie pairings, and variation suggestions to sink ever further into your holiday of choice. (And we can always magically transform any of these into mocktail versions.) So join us! Let’s raise a glass to the holidays!
Boston Michelada
Local Lager Beer, Lime Juice, Spicy Tomato Juice, Worcestershire Sauce, Lime Wedge, Spicy Salt Rim
This gorgeous drink looks like autumn in a glass—with a spicy rim that winks at its playfulness. To maximize the Boston Michelada’s flavor profile, we love to pair it with Mexican fare—especially dishes with a kick of chipotle chili peppers, or the taste continuum of tacos. Because the Michelada also pairs beautifully with smoked meats—from turkey to brisket to ham—it’s ready for your holiday event. Doubly so if you ask us to hang poached shrimp over its rim, for a beverage variation of a shrimp cocktail appetizer.
Seoul Mule
Ginger-Infused Soju, Yuzu Juice, Ginger Beer, Candied Ginger, Mint
The Seoul Mule’s copper mug alone has us feeling the coziest fall and festive feelings. Its ginger spice leans into autumn and the holidays, while its use of soju instead of vodka offers a refreshing twist on the classic mule. Since the Seoul Mule pairs perfectly with salty foods, creamy soft cheeses, and winter squash dishes—particularly those with a dash of curry or other spice—it is truly a perfect option for this time of year. And yet, we can fully morph it into a Holiday Mule with the addition of apple slices and cinnamon or fresh cranberries with a splash of cranberry juice.
Greyhound
Vodka, Pink Grapefruit Juice, Maple Syrup, Pinch of Salt, Rosemary Sprig
It’s the rosemary sprig, for us, that instantly has us humming holiday tunes when we’ve got a Greyhound cocktail in-hand. The marriage of sweet maple syrup to its grapefruit-vodka bite sinks us into piles of fall leaves. And pairing it with a winter citrus salad or tomato-based dish only enhances its delicate flavors. To transform the Greyhound into another holiday-ready cocktail, we’ll lighten the grapefruit, and add cranberry juice, candied cranberries, and a mini candy cane to create a Wintry Sea Breeze.
French 75
Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Champagne, Lemon Twist At first glance, the French 75 may not seem particularly holiday-esque. However, its very ability to be enjoyed year-round—plus its indulgent splash of champagne—makes it an ideal option for year-end festive celebrations of all kinds. Coupled with the reality that it pairs perfectly with the luxurious brine of caviar and smoked salmon, and the richness of soft cheeses, you may just start to wonder…was the French 75 always destined for the holidays? If you’re unconvinced, we’ll add Aperol, orange juice, an orange wheel garnish, and voila…you’ll be drinking a Holiday French 75. Cheers!
Ward 8
Rye, Lemon Juice, Orange Juice, Grenadine, Orange Slice, Luzardo Cherry "Flag"
Invented at a high-end Boston dining establishment in November, 1898, the Ward 8 was specifically designed to be enjoyed at this time of year. Its varied citrus flavor profile is a variation of the classic whiskey sour, and it pairs well with salty yet subtly sweet flavors like almonds, dark chocolate, and smoky barbeque. For an even more sophisticated, complex twist that settles more deeply into the flavors of winter, let us convert this into a Ward 11, using rye whiskey, orange curaçao, pomegranate, orange and lemon cordial, and a few drops of a highly unexpected yet perfectly balancing ingredient: saline solution.
Vesper
Gin, Vodka, Lillet, Edible Flower
When you consider that the Vesper Martini was created by author Ian Fleming for his famous character, James Bond, you—like us—may instantly envision that dapper, tuxedo-wearing hero, holding this simple yet bold cocktail…and realize what a perfect New Year’s Eve drink this is for a roomful of nattily dressed celebrants toasting the strike of midnight. Ideally paired with umami-forward foods like charcuterie or the brine of olives and pickles, this classic cocktail’s sophistication rises to a new level. To lean further into the holiday spirit, we’ll make this a Winter Orange Vesper with the addition of blood orange juice, orange bitters, and blood orange garnish.
We would love the opportunity to design the perfectly paired food and drink menu of your dreams for you to enjoy as you celebrate with your family, friends, and colleagues. And although this time of year is a wrap for Olive & Twist Mobile Bar’s outdoor event adventures, if you have an indoor venue large enough to allow our beautiful VW Westfalia to drive through its doors, your year-end celebration can feature its star, Penny Lane, serving your choice of signature drinks and more. Contact us to get the conversation started. Cheers to delicious holidays with your loved ones this year!
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