The use of spices in festive food and drink is a centuries-old tradition. In medieval Britain, spices from Asia, North Africa and the Pacific Islands would have been costly and difficult to come by, so saving them for the most important feasts made a lot of sense. Although our supermarket shelves are now a rich source of every ingredient imaginable, from every corner of the world, spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger and cloves still have a special place in our Christmas recipes.
Cocktails are no exception. If you’re planning a festive party this season, consider creating a signature Christmas cocktail to wow your guests. Here are a few of our favourites.
Spiced cranberry and orange vodka
A seasonal twist on a Cosmopolitan, this infused vodka is best prepared a few weeks ahead of time. Simply tip a jar of cranberry sauce into a Kilner jar, add a stick of cinnamon, a few cloves and a star anise. Fill to the top with vodka, give it a shake and leave it to settle. After two or three weeks, strain out the fruit and spices, add a little sugar syrup to taste and you’re ready to go. Chill well before serving in shot glasses with a thin paring of orange peel or pour into a flute and top with prosecco for festive fizz.
Gingerbread Espresso Martini
An Espresso Martini is always an elegant choice for a drinks party. This special edition adds the warmth of aromatic ginger for a classic Christmas vibe. You can make your own gingerbread syrup with treacle, fresh ginger and muscovado sugar but it’s easier to buy a bottle. Shake vodka with cold espresso, coffee liqueur and a dash of the spiced syrup and serve with a tray of mini gingerbread men! Or save yourself all the bother and treat your guests to Edmunds limited edition Gingerbread Espresso Martini delivered straight to your door.
Spiced Manhattan
People who are serious about their cocktails often opt for a timeless Manhattan. In many ways, the combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth and maraschino cherry already embodies the spirit of winter. But you can elevate it to true festive status by subbing a spice-infused vermouth for standard rosso and serving it with a stick of cinnamon alongside a brandied cherry.
