Festive Cocktails in SWLA

by Taylor Trahan Henry

As December begins, local restaurants will begin deck the halls behind their bars and offer up festive cocktails. Whether you’re winding down after a long day of shopping, celebrating the holidays at a swanky event, or just craving that Christmas flavor in boozy form, these libations are sure to have you covered.  At Bodega Wine Dive and Crying Eagle Brewing, mixologists have concocted a menu of flavors, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Bodega Wine Dive

Ole Saint Nick

The first sip of the Ole Saint Nick will send a wave of comfort, a perfect blend of Red Line “Elements” bourbon, chocolate bitters, and a touch of citrus. The sugar cube leaves subtle sweetness that dances on the palate. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of winter, there’s warmth to be found.

Snow On The Beach

The Snow on the Beach cocktail is a delightful mix of tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and coconut cream. The sugar rim glistens like freshly fallen snow, and the frosted cranberries add a burst of festive flavor. It’s a tropical escape from the chilly temps!

Christmas In The Cosmos

A play on the ever-popular Cosmopolitan. Christmas in the Cosmos has vodka, triple sec, peppermint liqueur, cranberry juice, and lime juice blend harmoniously, creating a cosmic symphony of flavors. It’s the perfect toast to the magic of the season.

Major Award

The Major Award is a true showstopper, combining vanilla vodka, coffee liqueur, peppermint liqueur, and cold brew coffee. Topped with a touch of cream, it’s a liquid dessert that captures the essence of indulgence. This one is sure you wake you up after a long day of shopping local!

Crying Eagle Brewing

Yule Mule

The Yule Mule at Crying Eagle Brewing is a refreshing twist on a classic. Tito’s vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and ginger beer mingle in a copper mug, creating a concoction that embodies the holiday spirit.

Chimney Smoke

For those seeking a bit of smoky intrigue, the Chimney Smoke cocktail is a revelation. Casamigos Mezcal Tequila, Cointreau, agave, lime juice, and a hint of chili oil create a drink that is both bold and inviting. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to add a touch of adventure.

Partridge In A Pear Tree

Hendrick’s Gin takes center stage in the Partridge in a Pear Tree, a cocktail that balances the floral notes of gin with the richness of spiced pear syrup. The addition of lemon juice and egg white creates a frothy, velvety texture that is both elegant and satisfying.

Milk & Cookies

The nostalgia of childhood holidays comes alive in the Milk & Cookies cocktail. Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Benedictine, Bailey’s Chocolate Liqueur, milk, heavy cream, and a dash of cacao bitters combine to create a drink that is both comforting and indulgent. It’s a sip of holiday joy in a glass.

Better Than Fruit Cake

Closing the holiday tale at Crying Eagle Brewing is the Better Than Fruit Cake. A blend of Cabernet, Brandy, Grand Marnier, agave, fresh chopped fruits, and cinnamon sticks, this cocktail is a celebration of flavors. It’s a testament to the idea that holiday indulgence should always be better than the fruit cake.

Keep your eyes open and your taste buds ready for other SWLA restaurants and bars to release incredible menus. If you’re looking to recreate these at home or even create your own signature cocktail for a party, get inspired by this list and then head to the liquor store to grab the ingredients. No matter which drink you choose to enjoy this holiday season, always remember to enjoy responsibly.