We really want to make a Christmas spirit(s) joke right now, but we'll spare you. Instead, we'll just serve up the good stuff: three simple recipes for festive drinks you can mix up right now (or tinker with 'til it's time for your New Year's Eve cocktail party).
We asked some of our favorite D.C. restaurants to share the how-to behind their most popular winter drinks, so you can make some holiday magic right in your own kitchen. Mix up these libations, invite some friends over, and get cozy. It's our gift to you, dear readers.
Photo: Courtesy of Masa 14.
Smoked Cider from Masa 14
Serves: 1
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Sweet cider gets a spicy-sour kick from Fireball whiskey and freshly squeezed lemon in this icy libation from Masa 14.
2 lemon wedges
1 dash of Angostura bitters
½ oz Vida mezcal
2 oz mulled apple cider
1 oz Fireball whiskey
In an 11-ounce double old-fashioned glass, muddle the lemon wedges; add bitters and pack glass with ice. Add remaining ingredients. Pour into a shaker and shake vigorously. Return to glass and serve.
Photo: Courtesy of Poste.Mull It Over from Poste
Poste’s cheekily-named, barrel-aged mulled wine can satisfy the oenophile in us all. The red wine makes it classy, spices give it depth, and honey adds a perfect hint of sweetness.
Poste’s cheekily-named, barrel-aged mulled wine can satisfy the oenophile in us all. The red wine makes it classy, spices give it depth, and honey adds a perfect hint of sweetness.
1 bottle red wine
6 oz brandy
2 to 3 cinnamon sticks
2 to 3 whole cloves
4 to 6 whole allspice
6 cardamom seeds
4 to 6 star anise seeds
Zest of 1 orange
3 oz honey
Sliced oranges, for garnish
Bring all the ingredients to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for 20 minutes. Strain and serve in mugs with an orange slice garnish.
Photo: Courtesy of Blue Duck Tavern.Spice Cocktail from Blue Duck Tavern
Serves: 1
Blue Duck Tavern serves up a sophisticated spice cocktail that'll impress even your most hard-to-please friends. The best part? It’s easy to make. Not to mention, the sweet with a dash of spice is the perfect holiday combo.
2 oz red wine
1 oz Averna liqueur
½ oz orange juice
¼ oz simple syrup
1 dash orange bitters
2 oz hot water
Cinnamon stick and orange peel, for garnish
Combine all ingredients except water in a snifter. Garnish with a broken cinnamon stick and a slice of orange peel studded with star anise. Top with hot water.