No Christmas dinner party is complete without a merry menu of drinks to complement the food. Instead of reaching for the usual packet or bottled drinks this year, why not add some amazing aperitifs to the mix? Consider setting up your own little cocktail bar, and have a supply of these delish drinks ready for your Christmas party.
But first, follow these four mixologist tips to impress your guests:
1. Use fresh ingredients
Always use fresh juices when you’re mixing high-quality spirits – and the same goes with everything else. Seasonal garnishes include fresh lime for caipiroskas or a slice of cucumber for gin and tonic.
2. Shake it like you mean it!
It sounds obvious, but thorough shaking makes sure ingredients are incorporated together correctly.

3. Measure everything
Specific amounts are crucial in ensuring your drink isn’t too sweet or too strong. Even at home, measuring can balance everything.
4. Choose clear ice
Ice is a huge deal – there is nothing worse than a cube melting before you’ve even had a chance to enjoy your drink! The clearer the ice the better, plus always refill cubes for a longer-lasting, refreshing drink.
Here are 10 easy peasy cocktail recipes perfect for getting the party started, plus mocktail versions for guests who don’t take alcohol:
Traditionally made of red wine and chopped fruit, this version uses a mixture of white wine, brandy and sparkling mineral water instead that’s lighter and more refreshing. For a non-alcoholic option, drop the brandy and swap wine for sparkling white grape juice.
Sail straight into the Christmas mood with this cranberry juice and ginger beer-infused aperitif. For a non-alcoholic option, simply use more cranberry juice instead of adding vodka.
For something more floral, serve up this elderflower-infused concoction in tall champagne glasses.
This crowd-pleaser is light, crisp and a great way to start or end a meal. Just be sure to add the sparkling water just before it’s time to serve, so it doesn’t fall flat.
Rich and creamy eggnog is traditionally made with raw eggs, but most store-bought ones have been pasteurised. Try making it yourself with our simple recipe, which has both cooked and uncooked versions! Simply leave out the spirits if you’re making a non-alcoholic version.
Refreshing with a little spicy twist, serve up this delicious martini that oozes with the sweet fragrance and taste of lychee.
Give the traditional mojito an upgrade with this pineapple and ginger concoction, which is packed with antioxidants and helps aid digestion too.
Light, refreshing and with a bit of alcoholic kick, this frozen cocktail is perfect for those warm and humid evenings.
If red and white wine are too heavy, rosé is a delicious and refreshing in-between. Just blend it up with a sweet berry sorbet for a frozen cocktail perfect for sharing.
A classic cocktail with a modern twist, our espresso old fashioned is perfect for Christmas celebrations.
Text: Bauersyndication/Additional reporting: Elizabeth Liew