Holiday Cocktails to Celebrate with Rye Whiskey

Rye whiskey, with its bold, spicy character, is a perfect base for festive holiday cocktails. Whether hosting a cozy gathering or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, these rye-based creations bring warmth and cheer to the season. Here are a few holiday-inspired recipes to elevate your celebrations.

Spiced Rye Old Fashioned

Put a seasonal spin on the classic Old Fashioned by incorporating warm spices.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Rye Whiskey
• 1/2 oz Spiced Simple Syrup (cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg infused)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

Instructions:
Combine rye, spiced simple syrup, and bitters in a glass with ice. Stir until well chilled and strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel and a cinnamon stick for extra holiday flair.

Rye Gingerbread Flip

This creamy cocktail is like a liquid gingerbread cookie, perfect for dessert.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Rye Whiskey
• 1 oz Gingerbread Syrup
• 1/2 oz Heavy Cream
• 1 whole egg
• Freshly grated nutmeg

Instructions:
Add rye, gingerbread syrup, heavy cream, and egg to a shaker without ice. Dry shake vigorously to emulsify, then add ice and shake again. Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Winter Rye Manhattan

A festive take on the Manhattan, this version adds cranberry notes for a tart holiday twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Rye Whiskey
• 1 oz Cranberry Liqueur
• 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
• 2 dashes Orange bitters
• Fresh cranberries and rosemary for garnish

Instructions:
Combine rye, cranberry liqueur, sweet vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a skewer of fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.

Hot Rye Apple Cider

Warm up with this simple, crowd-pleasing cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Rye Whiskey
• 6 oz Hot Apple Cider
• 1 tsp Maple Syrup
• Cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions:
In a mug, combine hot apple cider, rye whiskey, and maple syrup. Stir gently and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Rye Chocolate Espresso Martini

For a rich and indulgent cocktail, rye meets chocolate and coffee in this decadent drink.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 oz Rye Whiskey
• 1 oz Espresso
• 1/2 oz Coffee Liqueur
• 1/2 oz Chocolate Syrup
• Whipped cream and cocoa powder for garnish

Instructions:
Shake rye, espresso, coffee liqueur, and chocolate syrup with ice until chilled. Strain into a martini glass and top with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of cocoa powder.

Celebrate the Season with Rye Whiskey

Rye whiskey’s depth and versatility make it a fantastic choice for holiday cocktails. Whether you prefer warm and comforting or bright and festive, these recipes are sure to add a bit of spirit to your celebrations. So grab a bottle of Eight Oaks’ rye and toast to a joyful holiday season!