Posted On: November 30, 2023

Holiday Beverage Innovations

The holiday season is all about celebration, warmth, and indulgence. It's a time when we decorate our homes with twinkling lights, and the rich aromas of festive foods fill our homes. But we can't forget the drinks! Have you prepared a drink menu for this holiday season?

Having a well-thought-out holiday beverage menu during the festive season is a great way to spread the spirit of celebration and offer a delightful experience to your guests. In this blog, we'll take the stress of thinking of an innovative drink menu off your shoulders so you can focus on other tasks, like decorating or napkin folding.

Why Do I Need Holiday Beverages on My Menu?

From mulled wine to eggnog, festive drinks have been a longstanding tradition. However, the modern consumer seeks more than just tradition; they want creativity. Whether you own a restaurant, bar, or café or simply love hosting gatherings at home, mastering the art of crafting holiday beverages can set your establishment apart and create lasting memories for your guests.

Crafting innovative holiday beverages for your establishment:

Provides varied options for different palates
Attracts more customers by offering something unique, in turn boosting revenue
Leaves a lasting memory for guests, encouraging them to come back next year

Holiday Beverage Ideas

Here are some ideas of how you can provide innovative holiday beverages to your guests:

1. Minty Fresh Cocktails

We all know (and love) mint as a comforting flavor for the cold winter months. It’s a staple flavor of the festive season. But how about giving the traditional mint a festive twist? We suggest trying the following cocktails to mix it up:

Mint-Berry Fizz: Blend mint leaves, fresh berries (like raspberries or blackberries), a touch of lime, and your choice of white spirits, such as gin. Top it off with soda or tonic for that refreshing fizz.
Chocolate Mint Martini: Think of a liquid After-Eight. Blend chocolate liqueur with crème de menthe and vodka. Garnish with a mint sprig and a chocolate rim.

2. Spiked Lattes

Who said lattes are only for mornings? A touch of alcohol can transform this comforting beverage into a delightful evening treat. Here are some creative ideas to consider:

Rum-Chai Latte: Infuse a creamy chai latte with spiced rum. Garnish with cinnamon and star anise for a spicy kick.
Irish Coffee Latte: A combination of coffee, Irish whiskey, and a touch of sugar topped with whipped cream. Winter is the perfect time to indulge in this drink.

3. International Holiday Drinks

Want to get extra creative? Offer holiday cocktails from around the world! This will pique the interest of your guests and encourage them to try something new. Here are a couple of our favorites:

Swedish Glögg: A Nordic version of mulled wine made with red wine, spices like cloves and cardamom, and raisins and almonds for a finishing touch.
Mexican Hot Chocolate: Spice up your hot chocolate with a pinch of chili. Add a dash of Kahlua or tequila for an adult version.

4. Crafted Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Don’t make anyone feel left out of the holiday festivities! Not all festive beverages need to be alcoholic, even more so now when there's a growing trend of non-alcoholic or "mocktail" versions of classic drinks. Adding this to your menu allows everyone to enjoy their time at your establishment. Consider the following alcohol-free beverages for a taste everyone will love (even the alcohol enthusiasts):

Cranberry Sparkler: Mix cranberry juice, a touch of lime, and soda. Garnish with rosemary sprigs for a fragrant touch.
Gingerbread Latte: Infuse your milk with gingerbread spices and mix it with a shot of espresso. Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

5. Presentation Is Key

Lastly, you can’t forget the presentation! Although the taste of your festive beverage is undoubtedly crucial, its presentation can elevate the experience immensely. You want to present drinks that people will want to show off. To go the extra mile and make your drinks aesthetically appealing, consider:

Glassware: Choose unique glassware that complements your drink. Don’t be afraid to play with different styles. This will go a long way in attracting guests.
Garnishes: From fresh herbs to spiced rims, the right garnish can make all the difference and complete the look. It’s not just for taste but also its eye-catching appeal.
Layers: Consider crafting layered beverages to add to the drink’s visual. Don’t forget to experiment and have fun with the colors and textures.