As I’ve had the privilege of serving drinks to patrons from diverse backgrounds as a bartender, I’ve noticed one unifying factor: the Winter Olympics. Every four years, people from around the world converge to celebrate athletic excellence and the thrill of competition. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or simply enjoy the spectacle, there’s something for everyone at this global event. And what better way to experience it than with a refreshing drink in hand?
As a bartender, I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with flavors and ingredients to craft the perfect Winter Olympic cocktail. From timeless classics to innovative twists, the possibilities are endless. With the 2022 Winter Olympics just around the corner, I’m excited to share my favorite recipes with you. So, whether you’re cheering on your favorite team or enjoying the games from the comfort of your own home, join me as we explore the best Winter Olympic cocktail recipes.
From the snow-capped mountains 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
For fans of the Winter Olympics looking for a revitalizing drink to sip on while cheering their favorite athletes, the classic Vodka Lemonade is an ideal choice. This unpretentious cocktail’s simplicity is part of its charm, requiring only two main ingredients and allowing for effortless customization to suit individual tastes. Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade lemonade, the harmonious blend of vodka and citrus creates a refreshing beverage perfect for any occasion.
The beauty of this drink lies in its versatility, as you can introduce new dimensions by using flavored vodkas or incorporating fresh or frozen fruit. As you bask in the excitement of the Winter Olympics, Vodka Lemonade’s subtle complexity will provide the perfect accompaniment.
Sparkling Vodka Lemonade
This Sparkling Vodka Lemonade recipe is a match made in heaven, offering a revitalizing escape from the warmth of summer nights. With only three essential ingredients – vodka, lemonade, and soda water – this fizzy concoction is ideal for sharing with friends and family. The subtle addition of soda water cleverly balances out the sweetness of the lemonade, introducing a delightful effervescence that’s sure to quench your thirst.
Whether you’re watching the Winter Olympics or enjoying a casual gathering, this Sparkling Vodka Lemonade is an excellent choice for those seeking a light and revitalizing beverage.
Bourbon Maple Leaf
Indulge in the warm and cozy essence of winter with the Bourbon Maple Leaf, a delightful concoction that harmoniously blends bourbon and real maple syrup. As the flavors mingle, the sweet and smoky notes create a tantalizing taste experience that can be savored on the rocks or enjoyed as a comforting treat to pair with your favorite comfort food.
Whether you’re seeking a perfect accompaniment for a cold winter evening or simply looking to elevate your bourbon-drinking experience, this must-try cocktail is sure to delight anyone who appreciates the rich flavors of bourbon and craves a delicious winter drink.
Salted Caramel White Russian Cocktail
Indulge in the rich flavors of winter with the Salted Caramel White Russian Cocktail, a decadent twist on the classic White Russian. This creamy concoction combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream to create a luxurious after-dinner drink that’s perfect for cozying up on cold winter nights while watching your favorite Winter Olympic events.
As you sip on this sweet and salty delight, imagine yourself transported to a warm and inviting atmosphere, where the stresses of the day melt away with each creamy sip.
Refreshing Spiced Orange and Cranberry Spritz
Indulge in the delightful fusion of Prosecco’s crispness and the inviting aromas of spiced orange cranberry simple syrup, as the Refreshing Spiced Orange and Cranberry Spritz takes center stage. The subtle warmth of cinnamon sticks and cloves infuses this winter cocktail with a sense of coziness, making it an ideal choice for chilly winter nights when you want to gather loved ones around.
With its perfect blend of flavors, this spritz is sure to delight your guests and elevate any occasion from ordinary to extraordinary.
Cherry Moscow Mule
The Cherry Moscow Mule brings a delightful fusion of flavors and colors to the classic Moscow Mule recipe. By combining fresh cherries, vodka, cherry liqueur, lime juice, and ginger beer, this cocktail offers a perfect blend of refreshing qualities and fruity undertones. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or Christmas, this light, fizzy, and subtly sweet drink is an excellent choice for any occasion.
The addition of a cherry garnish and the vibrant pink hue only enhance its visual appeal, making it an attractive feature on any cocktail menu. If you’re seeking a unique and captivating cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Cherry Moscow Mule’s intriguing combination of flavors and presentation are sure to impress.
The Southside
Indulge in the excitement of the Winter Olympics with a one-of-a-kind cocktail that will leave your guests cheering. Enter The Southside, a game-changing fusion drink that reimagines the classic gin cocktail by seamlessly blending sake, a Japanese fermented rice liquor, into the mix. This innovative concoction yields a captivating balance of flavors as the sake’s subtle taste harmonizes with the zesty zip of lemon, lime, and fresh mint.
The result is a refreshing complexity that will keep you and your partygoers coming back for more. Plus, with the flexibility to use any type of sake on hand, this cocktail is an effortless way to wow your guests or utilize leftover sake. Let the Winter Olympics fun begin with The Southside!
Lychee Lime Fizz
Imagine sipping on a revitalizing Lychee Lime Fizz on a balmy summer evening. This delightful concoction combines the subtle sweetness of lychees with the zesty freshness of lime, evoking the essence of a light and airy meringue. While not suitable for AIP or Paleo enthusiasts, this refreshing cocktail is an ideal addition to any summer soiree or gathering.
To craft this tantalizing treat, simply muddle together mint leaves and lychees with a drizzle of syrup from a can, then add honey, vodka, and lime juice. Shake well with ice and strain into glasses filled with ice, topping it off with a splash of sparkling water. Complete the presentation by garnishing with a few additional lychees. If you’re seeking a unique and revitalizing cocktail to quench your thirst this summer, the Lychee Lime Fizz is an absolute must-try.
Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail
A winter evening calls for a warm and inviting cocktail, and the Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail perfectly fits the bill. The harmonious blend of gin, grapefruit juice, and elderflower liqueur yields a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, while the St. Germain adds a subtle sweetness that makes the drink smooth and approachable. This elegant concoction boasts a stunning pink hue that’s sure to delight your friends and family.
If you’re seeking a refreshing winter drink that tantalizes both sweet and sour tastes, look no further than this exceptional cocktail.
Sour Plum Drink
If you’re looking for a unique and revitalizing cocktail to enjoy during the Winter Olympics, look no further than the Sour Plum Drink. This ancient Chinese-inspired concoction is a centuries-old thirst quencher that’s perfect for warming up on chilly winter days. Despite its name, this sweet and tangy drink is surprisingly refreshing and ideal for those who appreciate fruity cocktails.
The core ingredients are dried sour plums and hawthorn berries, but feel free to experiment with other dried elements to tailor the flavor to your taste. Some even believe that this drink possesses medicinal properties, making it a healthy choice for the entire family. Give the Sour Plum Drink a try and experience a taste of traditional Chinese culture!
Ginger Cinnamon Punch
Indulge in the warm, spicy goodness of the Ginger Cinnamon Punch, a Korean dessert drink that’s as healthy as it is delicious. This wintertime classic combines the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger with the soothing warmth of cinnamon, making it an ideal choice for those looking to stay ahead of the cold during the Winter Olympics.
Traditionally served with dried persimmon, this punch is perfect for sipping on after a hearty meal at your favorite Korean BBQ restaurant or as a festive addition to your next winter gathering. While some may find the spicy kick overwhelming, this recipe expertly balances flavors and sweetness to create a drink that’s both approachable and indulgent. The use of Chinese cinnamon also lends a beautiful reddish hue without requiring any added brown sugar.
Give in to its charms and let the warmth of this festive cocktail envelop you this winter.
Blood Orange Margaritas
Escape the chill of the Winter Olympics with a vibrant and delectable Blood Orange Margarita. This on-the-rocks masterpiece combines freshly squeezed blood orange juice, tequila, orange liqueur, and sugar to create a harmonious balance of tangy and sweet flavors, set against a mesmerizing backdrop of deep crimson hues. As the perfect complement to winter’s festivities, this cocktail is made even more special by the fact that blood oranges are in season from December to March.
Whether you’re hosting an Olympic viewing party or seeking a warming beverage to cozy up with, the Blood Orange Margarita is sure to captivate and delight.
Chocolate Martini
Indulge in the rich flavors of the Chocolate Martini, a decadent concoction that caters to the sweet-toothed crowd. This indulgent drink combines chocolate liquor, crème de cocoa, vodka, and half-and-half, with a touch of grated chocolate on the rim of the glass for added luxury. The key to its velvety smoothness lies in the precise shaking technique with ice, which cools the cocktail without compromising its potency.
A must-try for anyone who can’t resist the allure of chocolate, this easy-to-make and delightfully refreshing drink is sure to become a new favorite.
Gold Champagne Jello Shots
Add a luxurious twist to your Winter Olympic party with the stunning Gold Champagne Jello Shots. These shimmering treats combine cranberry juice, champagne, and unflavored gelatin, topped off with edible gold sugar for an opulent touch. The simple recipe yields a fun and sophisticated adult beverage that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re celebrating the Games or just want to add some glamour to your gathering, these Gold Champagne Jello Shots are the perfect solution.
With their beautiful appearance and delicious flavor, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
Bicerin
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with the Bicerin, a decadent Winter Olympic cocktail that’s equal parts hot chocolate and espresso. This velvety drink has been a staple at Turin’s iconic Caffè Al Bicerin for centuries, where it’s served layered with European-style hot chocolate, dark espresso coffee, and heavy whipping cream. The result is a luxurious sipping experience that will leave you feeling like royalty.
While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, the Bicerin’s signature layers of flavors and textures are sure to delight even the most discerning palates. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their Winter Olympic cocktail game.
Virgin Sangria
Looking for a revitalizing and fruity non-alcoholic drink to serve at your Winter Olympic party? Look no further than the Virgin Sangria! This twist on the classic Spanish wine cocktail is perfect for families, as it’s made with fresh fruit, sparkling water, and a splash of juice. The result is a healthy and delicious beverage that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. And the best part?
You can serve it at daytime events like office parties, baby showers, or kid’s birthday parties without worrying about anyone getting too carried away. The Virgin Sangria is the perfect way to bring a taste of summer to your Winter Olympic party.
