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Festive Cranberry Holiday Cocktail: Elegant Christmas Drink


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 15 minutes

Description

Shake up this festive cranberry holiday cocktail! A vibrant, elegant Christmas drink with vodka & citrus. Perfect for parties & celebrations.

 


Ingredients

For the Rosemary Simple Syrup (The Flavor Key):

  • ½ cup Water

  • ½ cup Granulated Sugar

  • 2-3 large sprigs Fresh Rosemary

For the Cocktail Base:

  • 4 oz (120 ml) High-Quality Gin (a London Dry or a floral gin works well)

  • 4 oz (120 ml) 100% Cranberry Juice (not cocktail, for a tart, sophisticated base)

  • 2 oz (60 ml) Fresh Lime Juice

  • 2 oz (60 ml) Rosemary Simple Syrup (from above)

For the Assembly & Garnish:

  • Chilled Brut Champagne or Prosecco

  • Fresh Cranberries

  • Fresh Rosemary Sprigs

  • Optional: A strip of Lime Zest


Instructions

Step 1: Craft the Rosemary Simple Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and rosemary sprigs. Heat over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Let it simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat and allow the rosemary to steep for at least 30 minutes as the syrup cools. This infuses the syrup with a beautiful herbal essence. Strain out the rosemary and store the syrup in a jar. (Can be made up to 2 weeks ahead).

Step 2: Chill Your Glassware
Place your champagne flutes or coupe glasses in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before assembling the drinks. A frosty glass is essential for keeping the cocktail chilled and feeling extra special.

Step 3: Prepare the Cocktail Base (Can be Batched!)
In a pitcher or a large measuring cup, combine the gin, cranberry juice, fresh lime juice, and the 2 oz of cooled rosemary simple syrup. Stir well to combine. This entire base can be prepared and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance.

Step 4: Assemble the Drink
Take your chilled glasses. If desired, you can add a few fresh cranberries to the bottom of each glass for a pop of color. Divide the cocktail base evenly among the glasses, filling each one about halfway.

Step 5: The Grand Topper
Slowly and gently top each glass with chilled champagne or prosecco. Pouring it down the side of the glass helps preserve the bubbles and creates a beautiful layered effect before you stir.

Step 6: The Final Garnish
Gently place a small sprig of fresh rosemary into each glass. For an extra touch of aroma and citrus, express a lime twist over the drink by holding it over the glass, skin-side down, and giving it a sharp twist to release the oils, then drop it in.

Step 7: Serve Immediately
Serve the cocktails right away while the bubbles are lively and the glass is frosty. Encourage your guests to give a gentle stir to integrate the layers before sipping

Notes

  • Small Saucepan

  • Pitcher or Large Measuring Cup

  • Champagne Flutes or Coupe Glasses

  • Jigger

  • Fine-Mesh Strainer

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Drinks
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 5 mg
  • Fat: 15 g