Reflecting on my years as a bartender, I’ve had the pleasure of serving drinks to an incredibly diverse clientele. From college students to seasoned professionals, each customer has their own unique taste preferences and drinking habits. Yet, there’s one event that seems to bring everyone together – the Winter Olympics. This quadrennial celebration of competition and athletic excellence is a time when people from all over the world come together to cheer on their favorite athletes and nations.
Whether you’re an avid sports fan or simply enjoy watching the spectacle, the Winter Olympics offer something for everyone. And what better way to enhance your viewing experience than with a delicious and refreshing drink in hand? As a bartender, I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create the perfect Winter Olympic cocktails.
From classic recipes to innovative twists on traditional drinks, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to mixing up the perfect beverage for the occasion. With the 2022 Winter Olympics just around the corner, now is the ideal time to share my favorite recipes with the world. So whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or simply enjoying the games from the comfort of your own home, I invite you to join me on a journey through the best Winter Olympic cocktail recipes.
From the snow-covered slopes of Pyeongchang to the bustling bars of New York City, let’s raise a glass to the athletes and the spirit of competition that unites us all.
Vodka Lemonade
You’ll find it hard to resist the charm of the classic Vodka Lemonade when watching the Winter Olympics. This uncomplicated cocktail is ideal for those who crave a straightforward yet satisfying drink that can be easily tailored to their taste preferences. Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade lemonade, the combination of vodka and lemonade yields a revitalizing cocktail suitable for any occasion.
Moreover, its versatility allows you to add your own flair by using flavored vodkas or incorporating fresh or frozen fruit into the mix. So, unwind and indulge in the Winter Olympics with a rejuvenating Vodka Lemonade at your side.
Sparkling Vodka Lemonade
Elevate your summer nights with the Sparkling Vodka Lemonade, a simple yet delightful cocktail that’s perfect for warm evenings. Composed of just three ingredients – vodka, lemonade, and soda water – it’s an effervescent and revitalizing drink that’s ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own during special events like the Winter Olympics.
The inclusion of soda water skillfully balances out the sweetness of the lemonade, creating a delightful contrast of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Bourbon Maple Leaf
Gathering inspiration from the harsh yet beautiful winters, bartenders have crafted the Bourbon Maple Leaf cocktail, a perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors. Made with high-quality bourbon and real maple syrup, this drink is sure to warm your senses on a chilly evening. When served on the rocks, it’s a treat for the taste buds, evoking feelings of coziness and comfort.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or want to try a new twist on your favorite bourbon-based cocktail, the Bourbon Maple Leaf is an absolute must-try for anyone who appreciates the nuances of bourbon.
Salted Caramel White Russian Cocktail
Featuring a decadent and indulgent twist on the classic White Russian, the Salted Caramel White Russian Cocktail is the perfect choice for those looking to elevate their Winter Olympics viewing experience. By adding the sweetness of caramel and a hint of flaky sea salt, this cocktail creates a rich and velvety texture that’s sure to satisfy your cravings on even the chilliest of winter nights.
Made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream, its preparation is surprisingly straightforward, requiring just a few simple ingredients to whip up a batch that’s guaranteed to impress both you and your guests.
Refreshing Spiced Orange and Cranberry Spritz
Delighting in the flavors of the season, The Refreshing Spiced Orange and Cranberry Spritz is an exemplary winter cocktail that masterfully blends the revitalizing taste of Prosecco with the inviting warmth of spiced orange cranberry simple syrup. The aromatic presence of cinnamon sticks and cloves not only adds a sensory depth to this drink but also creates a cozy ambiance, making it an ideal choice for chilly winter nights.
With its delightful balance of flavors, it’s no surprise that this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and make any occasion truly special.
Cherry Moscow Mule
Lauded as one of the most refreshing twists on the classic Moscow Mule, the Cherry Moscow Mule cocktail is sure to tantalize the taste buds of even the most discerning cocktail enthusiasts. Made with an expert blend of fresh cherries, vodka, cherry liqueur, lime juice, and ginger beer, this cocktail is the perfect choice for any occasion, be it Valentine’s Day or Christmas celebrations.
The combination of light, fizzy, and subtly sweet flavors creates a delightful harmony that is enhanced by the invigorating kick from the ginger. Furthermore, the stunning pink hue and cherry garnish add an aesthetically pleasing touch to any cocktail menu, making this drink a showstopper at any gathering or party. If you’re on the lookout for a fun and unique cocktail to serve at your next event, then look no further than the Cherry Moscow Mule – it’s definitely worth trying out.
The Southside
Perfectly suited for your Winter Olympic viewing party, The Southside cocktail offers a unique twist on the classic gin-based drink. By incorporating sake, a Japanese fermented rice liquor, this fusion-style beverage adds an intriguing layer of complexity to the traditional recipe. The neutral flavor of the sake pairs beautifully with lemon, lime, and fresh mint, creating a bright and refreshing taste experience that is sure to captivate your guests.
Plus, with the flexibility to use any type or brand of sake you have on hand, this cocktail proves to be an incredibly versatile option for impressing friends and family or making use of leftover sake. This delightful Winter Olympic Cocktail is not to be missed!
Lychee Lime Fizz
Generally speaking, summer cocktails are all about refreshing flavors and light textures that help beat the heat. The Lychee Lime Fizz embodies this spirit perfectly, with its subtle blend of lychee and lime notes that evoke the sweetness of a meringue, as described by the creator’s husband. Although not compliant with AIP or Paleo diets, this cocktail is a great addition to any summer gathering or outdoor event.
Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors is crucial in creating a delightful winter cocktail, such as the Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail. This drink combines gin, grapefruit juice, and elderflower liqueur to create a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors. The addition of St. Germain adds a subtle touch of sweetness, making it smooth and easy to sip on a cold evening.
With its simple yet elegant presentation, complete with a beautiful pink color, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests. If you’re looking for a refreshing winter drink that perfectly balances sweet and sour notes, the Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail is an excellent choice.
Sour Plum Drink
Savoring the spirit of the Winter Olympics, why not try something new and exciting in your cocktails? The Sour Plum Drink is an old-fashioned yet refreshing beverage that has its roots in Chinese tradition. With a history spanning centuries, this thirst quencher has been a popular choice for cooling down during the warmer months. Its sweet and tart flavor profile makes it perfect for those who enjoy fruity and tantalizing drinks.
The core ingredients of dried sour plums and hawthorn berries can be combined with other dried elements to create a unique taste experience that suits your preferences. Some people even believe this drink has medicinal properties, making it an excellent choice for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on traditional cocktails or simply want to try something different, give the Sour Plum Drink a shot and discover a taste of authentic Chinese culture!
Ginger Cinnamon Punch
Often overlooked in the midst of rich holiday drinks, the Ginger Cinnamon Punch offers a refreshing alternative that’s just as flavorful. This Korean dessert drink is infused with anti-microbial ginger and cinnamon, making it an excellent choice for those looking to stay healthy during the Winter Olympics. Traditionally served with dried persimmon, this punch is perfect for sipping on after a big meal, especially at Korean BBQ restaurants where it’s commonly found.
In fact, the balance of spicy ginger and sweet cinnamon in this recipe makes it stand out from other winter cocktails, providing a delightful taste experience without being overwhelming. The use of Chinese cinnamon also gives the punch a beautiful red color without the need for added brown sugar, making it a visually appealing choice for any gathering.
Blood Orange Margaritas
Zestfully embracing the spirit of the Winter Olympics, why not try mixing up a refreshing and seasonal cocktail? The Blood Orange Margarita is an on-the-rocks margarita made with freshly squeezed blood orange juice, tequila, orange liqueur, and sugar. This delightful combination results in a tangy and sweet drink with a striking, vibrant color that’s sure to turn heads.
Blood oranges are typically in season from December through March, making the Blood Orange Margarita an ideal choice for sipping during the winter months. Whether you’re throwing a viewing party or just need a tasty way to warm up on a chilly evening, this cocktail is guaranteed to impress your guests.
Chocolate Martini
Undoubtedly one of the most decadent cocktails around, the Chocolate Martini is an absolute delight for those with a sweet tooth. This indulgent drink combines rich ingredients such as chocolate liquor, crème de cacao, vodka, and half & half to create a truly unique taste experience. The crowning glory comes in the form of a generous coating of grated chocolate on the rim of the glass, elevating this cocktail from merely delicious to truly sublime.
Gold Champagne Jello Shots
Ringing in the Winter Olympic spirit with a festive and elegant twist is easily achieved with the Gold Champagne Jello Shots recipe. Made with cranberry juice, champagne, and unflavored gelatin, these shimmering shots are not only a delight to drink but also visually stunning when topped with edible gold sugar for an added touch of glamour.
With a straightforward recipe that’s simple to follow, you can create a fun and adult treat that will undoubtedly impress your guests and elevate the atmosphere of any gathering or party requiring something truly special. Whether it’s a Winter Olympic viewing event or just a regular celebration, these Gold Champagne Jello Shots are sure to be a crowd-pleaser and leave a lasting impression on all who try them.
Bicerin
Framed by the rich flavors of Italy’s chocolate capital, Turin, the Bicerin is a decadent drink that embodies the spirit of luxury. This indulgent Winter Olympic cocktail combines European-style hot chocolate with the bold, dark notes of espresso coffee and the velvety smoothness of heavy whipping cream. The result is a small but mighty drink that packs a punch and offers a truly unique sipping experience.
While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, its popularity endures at Turin’s historic Caffè Al Bicerin, where it has been enjoyed for centuries as a beloved treat. If you’re looking to toast the Winter Olympics in style, the Bicerin is an unforgettable choice.
