In the quiet corners of the world, where the snow falls gently and the fire crackles in the hearth, one finds solace in the simple joys of the holiday season. As the year winds down and the Christmas lights twinkle like distant stars, there’s a timeless tradition that warms the soul—raising a glass to the spirit of the season. Here, in the spirit of Hemingway’s straightforward prose and love for the finer things, we explore the five best holiday drinks for Christmas.
-
Old Fashioned Eggnog:
In the crisp winter air, nothing beats the classic allure of an Old Fashioned Eggnog. Like a well-crafted sentence, this drink is a masterpiece in simplicity. Whisk together eggs, sugar, milk, and cream, then add a touch of bourbon for that rugged edge. Sprinkle with nutmeg, and you’ve got a drink that’s as comforting as a familiar novel by the fireside.- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons bourbon
- Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
In a mixing glass, whisk together one egg and sugar until well combined. Add milk, cream, and bourbon, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Shake with ice and strain into your favorite glass. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
-
Hot Buttered Rum:
Picture a cozy cabin nestled in the woods, where the scent of pine mingles with the warmth of the fireplace. Now, envision yourself with a steaming mug of Hot Buttered Rum in hand. This concoction of dark rum, hot water, butter, and a dash of spices is the liquid equivalent of a snug blanket—a timeless elixir to take off the winter chill.- 2 ounces dark rum
- 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
- Boiling water
In a mug, combine dark rum, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Fill the mug with boiling water and stir until the butter and sugar have melted. Allow the comforting aroma to envelop you as you savor the richness of this holiday classic.
-
Cranberry Mule:
For a holiday drink that packs a punch, the Cranberry Mule steps into the ring. Just like Hemingway’s punchy prose, this cocktail is a bold blend of vodka, ginger beer, and cranberry juice. Served over ice in a copper mug, it’s a refreshing and festive companion for those who prefer a lively kick to their holiday cheer.- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 2 ounces ginger beer
- 1 1/2 ounces cranberry juice
- Fresh cranberries and rosemary sprig for garnish
In a copper mug filled with ice, pour vodka, ginger beer, and cranberry juice. Stir gently and garnish with a handful of fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary. The festive colors and flavors make this drink a lively addition to any holiday gathering.
-
Mulled Wine:
Imagine walking through a snowy village in the European Alps, the air filled with the scent of spices and the promise of warmth. Mulled Wine, with its red wine base infused with cloves, cinnamon, and citrus, captures that essence. It’s the kind of drink that whispers tales of ancient traditions and shared moments around the holiday table.
- 5 ounces red wine
- 1 orange slice
- 2 whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon honey
In a saucepan, combine red wine, orange slice, cloves, cinnamon stick, and honey. Heat over low heat, avoiding boiling. Allow the wine to simmer for at least 15 minutes to infuse the flavors. Ladle into a mug, and let the enticing scent of spices transport you to a winter wonderland.
-
Peppermint Martini:
Hemingway knew the importance of a good martini, and during the holidays, a Peppermint Martini adds a touch of whimsy to the classic. Combine vodka, white crème de menthe, and peppermint schnapps for a drink that’s both sophisticated and festive. Garnish with a candy cane, and you have a cocktail that embodies the spirit of the season.- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1/2 ounce white crème de menthe
- 1/2 ounce peppermint schnapps
- Crushed candy cane for rimming
Rim a martini glass with crushed candy cane. In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, white crème de menthe, and peppermint schnapps. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a candy cane for a sophisticated, minty twist on the classic martini.
As the snow blankets the world outside, and the firelight dances on the walls, these holiday drinks become more than mere libations. They are the storytellers of the season, each sip weaving its own narrative of joy, warmth, and shared moments. So, as the year draws to a close, let these drinks be your companions, bringing a touch of Hemingway’s grace to your holiday celebrations. Cheers to Christmas and the simple pleasures that make it truly special.
