by Tom Boyd
December can often feel like an ongoing festival of clinking glasses, cosy gatherings, and the occasional spirited debate about who makes the finest mince pies. Amid this flurry of merriment, selecting the right beverages for your guests need not be a chore. This year, think beyond the predictable fizz and consider a repertoire of international classics, clever mocktails, and aromatic comfort drinks. After all, the world of festive libations is as vibrant as a Christmas jumper and as varied as a global winter market.
Warming Traditions with a Twist
Mulled wine, that time-honored European staple, never seems to go out of style. According to BBC Good Food (bbcgoodfood.com), a well-balanced mulled wine involves quality red wine gently simmered with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, citrus peels, & perhaps a spoonful of honey. In Germany’s famed Christkindlmarkts, this aromatic beverage is known as Glühwein and often served in charming ceramic mugs. Meanwhile, in Nordic countries, you might encounter Glögg, a cousin of mulled wine that sometimes includes raisins and almonds. For those looking to tame the alcohol content consider a lower-ABV version by adding more fruit juice or even a splash of herbal tea. Your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness, and you will still fill the room with that unmistakable festive aroma.
Non-Alcoholic Wonders
If some invitees prefer to steer clear of alcohol, there is no need to feel limited. Non-alcoholic eggnog, for instance, has emerged as a chic option. Trend-savvy baristas recommend blending oat milk with nutmeg, vanilla, and a hint of maple syrup for sweetness. According to The Guardian’s lifestyle section (theguardian.com), sales of plant-based alternatives have soared in recent years, providing fertile ground for creamy holiday drinks without the dairy. Shake up your approach by offering an almond-milk-based coquito, Puerto Rico’s festive coconut beverage, minus the rum, or try a spiced apple punch infused with ginger, cranberry, and a subtle smoky tea for complexity.
Mocktail Innovations and Local Input
Speaking of complexity, some top mixologists around the globe have shared their insights. Australian bartender Sarah Mitchell suggests experimenting with shrub syrups (fruit-infused vinegars) to add tartness and depth to your seasonal sips. In her Sydney pop- up bar, she often pairs a tangy cranberry shrub with sparkling water and a dash of rosemary syrup, creating a layered zero-proof drink that feels surprisingly grown-up. Closer to home, British café owner Oliver Dean of The Corner Teacup in Bath recommends playing with spices and temperatures. “I add a tiny pinch of smoked paprika to a spiced pear cordial,” he admits. “It surprises people in a good way, it is like gifting their taste buds a festive holiday.” Such tips highlight how a modest twist can make even the most familiar flavours exciting.
Global Perspectives on Indulgence
The holiday season is truly international, and your drinks can reflect that. Consider a Mexican hot chocolate spiked with a hint of chilli or a rose-infused Persian sharbat made by combining rosewater, fresh lime juice, and sugar syrup, then lengthening it with sparkling water. The New York Times (nytimes.com) has profiled similar creations, noting that festive beverages often carry cultural stories passed down through generations. By offering a small selection of globally inspired drinks, you turn an ordinary gathering into a cross- continental tasting adventure.
Making It Your Own
Choosing a signature drink or two for your December event can be a delight rather than a burden. Think about the flavours you love, citrus brightness, herbal warmth, chocolatey richness, and use that as a starting point. Gather quality spices, fresh fruits, and a decent non-alcoholic base or spirited counterpart, then be bold in experimenting. The internet is brimming with reliable recipes, and a quick scroll through social media, Instagram in particular, reveals talented home mixologists showcasing their seasonal fancies.
In the end, your guests will appreciate the effort, whether they are savouring a classic mulled wine with a fragrant twist or sipping a zero-proof nog that is as indulgent as the real thing. By seeking inspiration from trusted sources, embracing international traditions, and adding your personal touch, you ensure that everyone raises a glass (or mug) with genuine delight. Cheers to a season of thoughtful choices and memorable flavours, no one will miss the predictable sparkling wine when there is a world of taste waiting to be discovered.
