Thanksgiving cocktails shake up a sip of gratitude

While the wine might be decanted and the beer may be chilled, Thanksgiving cocktails can add a little extra to the holiday festivities. Even if it is easier to pour a libation, sometimes the extra effort makes that sip even more enjoyable. Raise a glass to gratitude.

From an aperitif to a cocktail for dessert, there are many Thanksgiving cocktails to be enjoyed all day long. Although the food coma might be unavoidable, it is best to use moderation with all the cocktails being enjoyed. No one wants to be that “holiday memory” told year after year.

What Thanksgiving cocktails are being shaken this year?

While some people might have their favorite cocktail or a holiday tradition, a few ideas can make for a delightful diversion from the norm. From awakening the palate before the feast to a sweet ending to the day, the options are many.

One way to start the celebration is with a negroni. While many people enjoy this cocktail during the warmer months, it is a great way to enjoy a bright, refreshing cocktail before all the hearty food hits the table.

Negroni Bianco

Ingredients:

• 1 part ITALICUS Rosolio di Bergamotto
• 1 part London Dry Gin
• 1 part Dry Vermouth
• Garnish: Olives

Method:

• Combine all ingredients in a tumbler glass with ice. Garnish with olives.

Sometimes contrasting flavors can make the food and cocktail experience even more enjoyable. With this cocktail from Recuerdo Mezcal Joven, the combination of sweet and sour is a lively sip that is not too tart nor too sweet.

And, don’t fear the egg white. The frothy component makes for an elevated sip. But, make sure that the cocktail is well shaken.

Recuerdo Raspberry Sour

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Recuerdo Mezcal Joven
• 1 oz Jack Daniel’s Honey
• 4 raspberries
• 1 oz orange juice
• .5 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white

Method:

• In a glass muddle the raspberries with the orange juice and simply syrup, then strain into a cocktail shaker. Add the Recuerdo Mezcal, Jack Daniel’s Honey, and egg white and do a dry shake before adding ice and shaking again. Serve in an old fashioned glass and garnish with a raspberry.

Sometimes a little warmth can balance that chilly reception when grandma doesn’t approve of your new look. Even if you have to take a step outside to calm the nerves, this cocktail from Stranahan’s will have everyone enjoying a twist on the classic. It might have you thinking that this holiday season will hit new highs.

Rocky Mountain Toddy

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Stranahan’s Original
• 6 oz hot brewed chamomile tea
• Honey to taste
• Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
• Angostura Bitters

Instructions:

• Combine Stranahan’s Original and brewed chamomile tea in a glass mug. Add in honey to taste. Top with a dash of Angostura Bitters. Stir and garnish with a clove-studded lemon wheel.

Continuing the warm and cozy theme, this Aberfeldy cocktail is a great way to elevate that mulled wine. While it has those spicy notes, the layers of flavors make this cocktail a great slow sipper.

Harvest Dram

Ingredients:

• 2 oz ABERFELDY 12 Years Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
• 1/2 oz Mulled Wine Syrup
• 2 dashes Aromatic Bitters
• 2 dashes Orange Bitters

Method:

Add Aberfeldy 12, mulled wine syrup and bitters to a mixing glass and stir. Pour into a rocks glass and add block ice. Garnish with an orange peel and cloves.

While many people cannot resist a slice of pie after dinner, others might prefer to sip their dessert. This cocktail is a lovely alternative. Or, it could make for a delightful holiday brunch option, too.

Ginger Bourbon Chai

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Chai Latte Mix
• 3 oz. Reed’s Real Ginger Ale
• 1.5 oz. Bourbon
• Ground Cinnamon

Directions:

• In a cocktail shaker with ice, add Chai Latte Mix, Reed’s Real Ginger Ale and Bourbon. Pour slowly into sugar-rimmed glass and top with ground cinnamon.

What Thanksgiving cocktails will you be sipping? Do you have a traditional cocktail that is always served for the holiday?