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Bacardi Limited unveils the insights of its fifth annual Cocktail Trends report for 2024.

As the global authority on spirits and libations, Bacardi’s latest findings promise a peek into the evolving landscape of flavors, techniques, and cultural influences shaping the art of cocktail crafting.

From innovative ingredients to cutting-edge mixology methods, this serves as a spirited guide into the trends destined to captivate taste buds and revolutionize the bar scene in the coming year.

“As 2024 arrives, people are looking to settle into the unsettled— welcoming tastes of optimism into our reality. In this landscape, people are reshaping cocktail culture, infusing it with fresh perspectives and finding memorable experiences back at the bar with friends. From redefining moderate drinking to a surge in sustainable attitudes, Bacardi is at the forefront, championing a world where people-driven cocktail culture thrives through innovation, experimentation, and overall better moments,” says Brenda Fiala, Global Vice President of Strategy, Insights & Analytics at Bacardi.

To start, limited libations is one of the macro-trends that will define 2024. Consumers are delving into the NoLo category of drinks. “Nolo,” short for “no- and low-alcohol,” represents a transformative movement in the beverage industry, redefining social drinking and cocktail culture. This evolving trend caters to individuals seeking flavorful, well-crafted drinks without high alcohol content, aligning with a growing emphasis on health, moderation, and mindful consumption.

Innovative aging and blending are predicted to trend in the coming year, as distillers are venturing into uncharted territory, discovering new sources of innovation.

Bold and unexpected pairings will lead, whereas regional experimentation will yield spicy, fruity, and zesty profiles. While enjoyers of dark, aged spirits are diversifying their palates, rum-based cocktails are continuing to grow in popularity.

Tequila ranked as the number one premiumization category with Mezcal named as the one to follow, as indicated by the Bacardi Global Consumer Survey 2023.

Cocktail culture has also become a passport to various destinations, whisking enthusiasts across continents and time periods. From timeless spritzes to intricate concoctions, these libations serve as vessels, recreating cherished, communal moments year-round. In the upcoming year the synergy between beverages and locations will deepen, as classic cocktails infused with European flavors transport drinkers from sandy shores to sophisticated bars. The connection to nature will be a growing focus in the new year, as brands and bartenders are taking a holistic approach to nature and its flavors—harnessing sustainably sourced aromatics, florals, botanicals, and oils to create cocktail experiences uniquely rooted in nature.

With the new year also comes new digital advancements, which are directly influencing what, where, and how drinks are enjoyed. Consumers who want personalized brand interaction are interested in what AI can provide in the way of opportunities for tailored cocktail experiences but wish to maintain the emotional connection that bartenders provide.

No matter what trends we encounter in 2024, we can expect that innovation will meet tradition, and the bar will remain a canvas for unforgettable moments, inviting enthusiasts to sip, savor, and indulge in the ever-evolving world of libations.

The post Check Out 5th Annual Cocktail Trends Report for 2024 with Bacardi Limited appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

One of the world’s best-known cocktails, the Bloody Mary is a savory and complex drink.

Its origin is unknown, but many believe that the cocktail is named after Queen Mary Tudor, also known as “Bloody Mary”. The traditional recipe has seven ingredients. Vodka, tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, black pepper, tabasco and lemon juice. Over time, many new variations and creations have stemmed from the original recipe. However, vodka has always been the star of the show. Use this list to choose a vodka to make your own twist on the Bloody Mary!

Ketel One

This award-winning vodka was a no-brainer on our list. With citrus and honey aromatics and a clear and silky finish, this vodka will not overshadow but rather complement the flavors of your cocktail. The citrus overtones will assist to bring out the lemon juice taste, and the sweet honey will aid to temper the heat from the black pepper and tabasco.

Tito’s

This classic vodka is a great choice for this cocktail. Certified gluten-free, this is an option for those who can’t, or prefer not to have gluten. It’s old-fashioned distilling process produces a smooth and clean spirit, so clean that many choose to just drink it straight! That being said, it will allow you to enjoy all the other flavors in the cocktail recipe.

Infuse Mango Habanero

With a complex recipe like the Bloody Mary, there is a ton of room for improvising and making the drink your own. Using a unique vodka such as this one can take your drink to a new level. The sweet mango infusion will add a fruity edge to your cocktail, while the habanero will help to kick the spice up a notch!

Grey Goose

The only thing that could make this classic cocktail better is a classic spirit. Grey Goose vodka is a well-known brand, and for good reason. Its simple recipe has been perfected to make a crisp and clean vodka that is excellent for sipping but even better for mixing. It has a light taste and a strong finish, making it perfect for this elaborate drink.

Chopin Potato Vodka

This vodka has the privilege of being the worlds most awarded potato vodka. It’s earthy and organic taste profile pairs perfectly with the tomato and tabasco in the traditional Bloody Mary recipe. It ends with a smooth finish, offering no extra burn or spice. This is a great choice for those who prefer less heat in their beverage.

Breckenridge Chili Chile

This vodka is a perfect option for those who want to add a little extra heat to their cocktail. Distilled at 9,600 feet above sea level, the highest distillery in the world, this vodka uses pristine and pure glacier water. The addition of Colorado-grown Chile peppers adds an element of smoke and spice to the recipe. The chipotle and pepper flavors of the vodka will enhance the ingredients in the original recipe and leave you with a great new twist on a classic drink.

Reyka Vodka

This vodka is made using a one-of-a-kind method, and you can unmistakably tell the difference in the finished product. The water comes from a glacier spring in Iceland, and it is purified by running through a lava field that is over 4,000 years old. This results in a vodka that is so clean and refined that it can be sipped straight from the bottle, but it also makes an excellent base for a Bloody Mary.

Absolut Peppar

This vodka is a superb choice for those who love pepper and a little extra heat in their favorite brunch cocktail. Launched in 1986, it was the first clear flavored vodka imported to the United States. This spirit was created specifically for a Bloody Mary recipe. Try this spirit in your next cocktail for a little kick that will leave everyone satisfied and impressed.

Haku Japanese Vodka

Haku vodka, which is filtered using an innovative bamboo charcoal technology, has a taste profile that is unique in its softness and sweetness. On the nose, you may pick up aromas of vanilla bean and lemon. The fruity flavor persists all the way through to the smooth finish. The natural sweetness of the spirit will go perfectly with the tartness of the lemon juice in the recipe, and the vanilla undertones will be helpful in tempering the spiciness of the pepper.

St. George Green Chile

The master distillers have created a spirit that strikes the ideal mix between spicy and fresh. The bell pepper and lime provide complementary sweetness to the spiciness brought on by the jalapeño, serrano, and habanero peppers. If you want a drink with a little more flavor, this is the spirit to pick.

The post Top 10 Vodkas for a Perfect Bloody Mary appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

What is the most quintessential American holiday beverage? Eggnog, hands down.

This delicious and creamy spiced beverage is notorious for its ability to hide high-proof alcohol quite well. But, what if we told you there’s another contender in town that’s even spicier (and friendlier to our dairy-free friends?) Its name is Coquito.

Coquito is Puerto Rico’s symbol of holiday celebration. It’s a true Christmas holiday vacation in a glass – it’s creamy, coconut-y, spicy, and appropriately boozy. Coquito has a simple recipe featuring condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut cream, cinnamon, and grated coconut (though optional!) Just like eggnog, it is usually spiked. A good glug of Puerto Rican rum makes this beverage an easy way to warm up when it’s cold outside.

And, yes, it does get cold on a gorgeous island like Puerto Rico. Its stunning terroir features hills and mountains with peaks as high as 4000 feet, at least. You can only imagine that things can get a little chilly up there.

So, how did Coquito come to be? There are a few theories. Some say Americans brought their eggnog tradition in the 19th century, replacing whiskey or moonshine with Puerto Rican white rum. However, many argue that coquito evolved on its own, as a traditional farmer’s beverage. With sugar cane and coconut all around, it was the ideal thing to stay warm and celebrate the holidays with loved ones. Its name does mean little coconut in Spanish after all.

What we adore about Coquito is how it is a little more flexible than its American cousin. You may have noticed that the ingredients listed above didn’t feature eggs. Though some recipes may call for it, Coquito actually gets enough of its luscious creamy texture from coconut cream and evaporated milk.

The island easygoingness of Coquito doesn’t stop there. This beverage adapts to dairy-free or vegan holiday menus, with some authentic recipes preferring it that way. Though evaporated milk is a staple ingredient of Puerto Rican kitchens, it can still be entirely substituted with coconut cream, evoking a rich sense of the islands.

The Caribbean is full of excellent white rums, so which one pairs best with Coquito? Of course, Puerto Rican rum will lend the authentic touch you’re looking for. Bacardi Superior undoubtedly is a go-to choice (the brand even boasts a Coquito liquor!), though there are other beloved Puerto Rican rums that traditionally make their way into this seasonal cocktail.

Don Q’s Cristal is a signature white rum of the island – it’s pure and clean, undergoing multiple distillations. Let’s just say it slips a little too seamlessly into a coquito, so ten cuidado.

If you’d like to make a little more spiced coquito, Ron Barrilito two stars is an excellent addition. It adds a dash of holiday spirit, with tantalizing toasty aromas and dried fruit flavors, a result of its aging in “Oloroso” white oak barrels for 3 to 5 years.

We must note – just like salsa music – drinks travel too in the Caribbean. While Coquito is originally a Puerto Rican beverage, it’s also found in the neighboring Dominican Republic. where it has another name – Ponche di coco. This similar beverage offers an opportunity to dive into the world of mamajuana, or Dominican spiced rum that turns the drink into a zesty rendezvous. Candela Mamajuana spiced rum mixes easily into your Ponche di coco, adding a dose of deep caramel and spice that can only get better if you’re sitting cozy by the fire. It looks even better served in Candela’s limited edition holiday shot glasses, featured in their current gift set.

The post Get to Know Coquito appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

De Kuyper Royal Distillers announces the retirement of its longstanding Chief Executive Officer, Mark de Witte.

Mark de Witte will be succeeded by Leo Evers, a seasoned business leader with over 30 years of expertise in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, both in Europe and in Asia.

Mark de Witte expressed his gratitude and reflected on the journey, saying, “It has been a great privilege to lead De Kuyper through a period of significant transformation and growth. I am very proud of my team and of what we have accomplished together. Also, I am grateful for the confidence and support of the Supervisory Board as well as of the De Kuyper Royal Distillers shareholders. I am confident that Leo Evers is well suited to guide the company into its next chapter. I wish him and the entire De Kuyper team continued success.”

Under de Witte’s leadership, De Kuyper has made great strides towards its ambition to become the globally recognized go-to company for cocktails and one of the main innovation drivers in the cocktail industry. De Kuyper has nearly tripled its turnover during this period. Being awarded “Liqueur Producer of the Year” at the prestigious International Spirits Challenge (ISC) five times in a row (2019-2023) is a clear sign that De Kuyper’s vision to “Own the Cocktail” has given good orientation on this path.

Leo Evers’ impressive career began in 1990 at Bols International, followed by a successful 25-year journey with the Heineken Group, where he held various key positions across seven different countries. In 2021, the Dutch national joined the Executive Committee of Carlsberg as the Executive Vice President Asia. His extensive background in supply chain, sales, marketing, and general management positions, coupled with his rich experience in the FMCG sector, makes him the ideal candidate to lead De Kuyper into the next phase of its development.

Evers expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “For most of my professional career, I have worked for family-owned businesses whose rich heritage I value highly. I love to work for companies with passionate people, fantastic brands, and those that are looking for long-term sustainable growth. De Kuyper has an incredibly rich history encompassing over three centuries and continues to demonstrate its relevance today. Personally, I believe that De Kuyper is a company that is well positioned after the transformation of the last nine years and has massive opportunities for the future, especially by continuing to ‘Own the Cocktail’ and by further expanding internationally. I am very excited and honored to join the De Kuyper team as of April 2024.”De Kuyper’s Supervisory Board Chairman Dirk-Jan Stoppelenburg also shared his thoughts on the transition, stating, “We extend our deepest appreciation to Mark for his exceptional leadership and remarkable contributions.

Under his stewardship, De Kuyper has delivered an impressive performance to become one of the most respected liqueur producers in the world. Mark leaves De Kuyper well positioned for future growth, and we sincerely thank him for everything he has helped us to achieve. We welcome Leo Evers to the company and are confident that his wealth of experience and strategic vision will contribute significantly to our continued success. He brings a strong affinity with the industry, a fantastic drive and energy, a good understanding and experience of a family-owned context, proven strategic abilities, and a personality and leadership style that fits seamlessly with what Mark established for De Kuyper in the past. We wish Mark all the best in his future endeavors and welcome Leo to the company.”

The post De Kuyper Royal Distillers Announces Retirement of CEO, Mark de Witte appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Check out these new cocktail trends for 2024!

As a new year dawns, it ushers in a clean slate for fresh traditions, aspirations, resolutions, and trends to weave into our lives. After a few years overshadowed by illness and grief during the global pandemic, it seems that we have finally made a return to a semblance of “normalcy”. With the revival of the bar and restaurant industry, it appears life is not just resuming but thriving once more going into 2024.

There has been a noticeable shift in people’s perspectives all around the world, with millions of people thinking more and more about innovation, inclusion, and wellbeing. Naturally, the beverage business is being significantly impacted by this change. Customers are now better at identifying and communicating their needs and wishes. This way of thinking, developed amid the pandemic, is here to stay. In 2023, we witnessed a rise in conscientiousness regarding alcohol consumption, a revival of simple pleasures, robust experimentation with flavors, and the continued elevation of modern cocktails.

Nevertheless, the momentum remains after that. One question that arises is whether these patterns will continue to evolve as the new year approaches, or completely subside.  Examining the industry’s top expected developments in further detail for 2024 will shed light on how these revolutionary changes are going to unfold.

Vegan Fat-Washed Cocktails

The vegan fat-washed cocktail trend has gained popularity in the mixology world, with Denver’s Deviation Distilling leading the charge by introducing an extensive menu of vegan fat-washed options. This innovative technique involves infusing plant-based fats into spirits to impart unique flavors. Among the offerings at the recent USA Today 10 Best Taproom and Best Gin winners, were notable cocktails such as the Mango Lassi with Pistachio-Washed Blood Orange Gin. This drink combines the richness of pistachios with mango purée, lime juice, cardamom bitters, and saffron rose water, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory notes.

Another standout is the Sesame State of Mind, featuring Spice Trade Gin fat-washed with house made sesame oil, combined with coconut milk, lemongrass syrup, homemade ginger liqueur, Thai chili tincture, and cucumber for a complex and balanced flavor profile. Lastly, the Hazel & Spice showcases Hazelnut-Washed Citrus Rosé Gin, paired with allspice, Demerara syrup, and a coffee bean, resulting in a cocktail with layers of nuttiness, warmth, and depth. These vegan fat-washed cocktails exemplify the ingenuity and creativity of contemporary mixology, offering plant-based alternatives with sophisticated and distinctive taste experiences. Vegan fat-washed cocktails seem like a new must-have in 2024!

The Japanese Spirits Mecca

The rise in the consumption of Japanese spirits is evident at OAK at Fourteenth in Boulder, Colorado, a Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant. The establishment has undertaken a Far East mission to introduce patrons to the diverse world of Japanese alcoholic beverages beyond sake and Sapporo. Over the past year, OAK has prioritized Japanese spirits in its award-winning cocktail program, offering an array of Japanese whiskies, vodkas, and gins. This trend aligns with a 60% increase in Japanese liquor exports in recent years and the growing influence of Asian-Americans in the U.S. OAK’s focus on Japanese spirits is driven by a genuine appreciation for the craftsmanship and attention to detail exhibited by Japanese producers.

Notable cocktails at OAK include the Roku Like a Hurricane with Japanese Roku gin and the Mononke with house made Szechuan-peppercorn-infused Japanese Iwai Traditions Whisky. These creations showcase the versatility of Japanese spirits and exemplify a broader trend of heightened interest and consumption in the culinary and mixology realms. It will be exciting to witness Japan further make their mark in the spirit world this upcoming year.

Functional Mocktails/Cocktails

The increasing awareness of health-conscious choices has driven the rise in the consumption of mocktails and functional cocktails. Consumers are seeking beverages that not only offer traditional taste but also provide health benefits, such as antioxidants and immunity boosts. Functional cocktails go beyond the usual effects of relaxation or energy, incorporating ingredients known for their wellness properties. This trend is exemplified using fermented and pickled foods, like those found in pickle or horseradish jars, to improve gut health in cocktails.

The release of a dozen “Bubbies Bevvies” cocktails from the famous Bubbies’ Fine Foods – the country’s best-selling refrigerated kosher dill and sweet pickles –, including the Pickle Brine Margarita, underscores the intersection of flavor and function. Looking ahead to 2024, the anticipation is for a continued increase in the popularity of mocktails and functional cocktails, with more brands expected to introduce diverse options that cater to the demand for both enjoyable and health-conscious drinking experiences.

The post 2024 Cocktail Trends from Vegan Fat-Washed to Japanese Spirits appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

Each month Chilled presents you with five essential cocktails based on our National Drink Day Calendar. Don’t forget to reference it so you can prepare for the upcoming holidays.

What better way to embrace the possibilities that this year will bring than by exploring the lovely world of essential cocktails? As we embark on the first month, let’s toast to new beginnings and exciting possibilities with one of these essential cocktails.

Whether you’re recovering from the holiday hustle or simply looking to refresh your bar menu for 2024, these libations are here to bring touch of flavor to your January days and nights.

Orange Paprika Monkey Mary

January 1st marks National Bloody Mary Day—the perfect way to kick off the new year, especially if you indulged a little too much the night before. The Bloody Mary, renowned for its bold and zesty profile, has become a beloved classic in the world of cocktails. The Orange Paprika Monkey Mary can be made in batch making it easy to prep and serve to all your guests.

Top O’ The Mornin’ To Ya

Join us in honoring National Whipped Cream Day on January 5 with a warming treat. While whipped cream is typically associated with desserts, why not elevate the celebration by incorporating it into a tasty cocktail? This white-chocolate Irish Coffee is topped with an espresso whipped cream that’s bound to knock your socks off.

Botequero

If you’re in need of the perfect excuse to cozy up with something delicious, look no further. On National Hot Toddy Day (1/10) try this delicious recipe to celebrate the occasion. It has a simple twist, swapping out the classic whiskey for cognac instead. As we embark on the cold weather this month has to offer, this cocktail is a guarantee to warm you up.

Cariño Andaluz

After the holiday season that’s filled with cookies and sugar, adding something green into your
diet might be the way to start off the year strong. This refreshing and vibrant green cocktail is
crafted using a green bell pepper juice. While it might be unconventional, the veggie-forward
cocktail is the perfect balance of healthy and fun!

Diplo Mocha

Not that anyone needs a special occasion to indulge in a sweet and rich cup of hot chocolate but, National Hot Chocolate Day seems like the perfect time to do so. Celebrate this winter-favorite on January 31 with a Diplo Mocha. The espresso brings out the decadent chocolate flavors that pairs perfectly with a touch of booziness from the rum.

The post 5 Essential Cocktails for January 2024 appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

From Bar Manager Josh Johnson of Nashville’s Oak Steakhouse, comes The Oakfather, a unique riff on The Godfather cocktail.

The Oakfather, a creation by Bar Manager Josh Johnson at Oak Steakhouse Nashville, is a meticulously crafted cocktail featuring the distinctive Talisker 10 Year Scotch, a rarity in classic whiskey cocktails. This unique libation unfolds with whiffs of salt and minerality, followed by notes of honey and orchard fruits, culminating in a captivating transition to a smoky, campfire ash flavor. The cocktail offers a sensorial journey, balancing the complexities of salt, sweetness, and smokiness. Josh Johnson’s artful blend transforms The Oakfather into a harmonious masterpiece, providing a memorable and nuanced drinking experience.

Scotch

The Oakfather

by Josh Johnson

Ingredients

• 1 oz. Talisker 10 Year Scotch
• .75 oz. Amaretto
• .5 oz. Green Chartreuse
• .5 oz. Vaniella Syrup
• .5 oz. Lemon Juice

Preparation

1. Shake and serve in a snifter glass.
2. Garnish with a dehydrated lemon.

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The post Behind The Oakfather Cocktail, A Unique Spin On The Godfather Cocktail appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

The Szechuan Flower, AKA “Buzz Button,” gets its nickname due to the intense tingly sensation that occurs in your mouth when consuming it.

The small leafy plant is used in cooking and mixology for its incredible ability to elevate the taste of a dish or a drink. Condado Ocean Club is the only adults-only hotel located on the beach across the island of San Juan and it’s signature indoor-outdoor eatery, SOCIAL, has recently added a cocktail to their menu using this unusual ingredient. The “Buzz Button” is combined with Bribón Tequila, Blue Curaçao, lime juice, simple syrup, pineapple, and egg whites to create the perfect flavorful citrus drink; THE SOCIALITE.

Although a few other resorts across the globe offer the Szechuan Flower in their drinks, Condado Ocean Club has a unique leg up on them because the flower is grown and sourced locally, in the town of Aibonito, Puerto Rico. The freshness of THE SOCIALITE is unparalleled and will therefore create an unforgettable experience for everyone!

Tequila

The Socialite

Ingredients

• 2 oz. Tequila Bribón
• 1/2 oz. Cointreau Noir
• 1/2 oz. Blue Curaçao
• 3/4 oz. Lime
• 1 oz. Pineapple Juice
• 1 oz. Egg White
• 3/4 oz. Rosemary Simple Syrup

Preparation

1. Pour all ingredients into a shaker and dry shake.
2. Add ice and shake again.
3. Strain over ice sphere.
4. Garnish with a Szechuan Flower.

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The post In the Limelight: Szechuan Flower AKA “Buzz Button” appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News

As gloriously depicted in films like Miracle on 34th Street and Elf, New York City is a wonderous time during the holiday season.

Whether you’re a far-away tourist or Big Apple local, there’s a plentiful array of jolly options to celebrate, and with a drink in hand. Here’s some of the most unique places to get together with friends, family, or go for a solo drink around the city that never sleeps.

From an elegant Italian restaurant to a night out listening to music, magnificent margaritas and everything in between, it’s as Ella Fitzgerlad once sang: “The great big city’s a wondrous toy, just made for a girl and boy. We’ll turn Manhattan into an isle of joy.”

Fasano Baretto

280 Park Ave, New York

Steps away from Midtown, Manhattan Christmas delights like the Rockefeller Center Tree sits this high-class Italian restaurant known for power dinners and authentic cuisine. With a family restaurant history that stretches back to 1902 in northern Italy, the Fasano brand is well known across Latin America. For their New York location (which opened in 2022) spearheaded by family member Geno Fasano, the elegant space is perfect for a special holiday meal and boasts culinary delights ranging from Veal Milanese to lucious burrata. Proving to be a perfect pair, upstairs is Barretto; a tucked-away jazz club which regularly features GRAMMY-winning artists who play classy standards as patrons sip on martinis and wine. It’s dinner and a show, all in the same space.

Drink this: One of Fasano’s many Negroni variations which alongside a classic encompasses a Smokey Nero (made with scotch) and their “A.W.M.” (concocted with mezcal).

Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center

620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn

The holiday season means it’s basketball season! Deep in the heart of Brooklyn lies the storied Barclays Center which has welcomed some of the biggest events and entertainers in the world since opening just over a decade ago. It also serves as the homebase of the Brooklyn Nets which most notably last made it to the semifinals in 2021. Forget about standard arena grub: the F&B program honors the best of Brooklyn with Nathan’s hot dogs, Junior’s cheesecake and Parm sandwiches, and a series of bars including the Jay Z-backed 40/40 club as well as Modelo and Corona-branded watering holes.

Drink this: A beer and a Nathan’s hotdog.

Pink Taco

7 Times Sq, New York

Is there anything better than cocktails that remind you of summertime when the weather gets cold? After you’re done galavanting around Broadway, pop into this space opened this past spring and is known for their unique tacos and lip-smacking libations. Born in Los Angeles and inspired by both California and Mexico, the menu encompasses anything but run-of-the-mill grub. (Think: creamy lobster enchiladas and coconut shrimp tacos.) When it comes to what to wash it down with, you can’t go wrong with any assortment of the many margaritas the menu proudly boasts, including classic varieties along with strawberry, cucumber, spicy, and frozen – among others.

Drink this: A margarita, anyway your heart desires.

Whiskey Wonderland

686 Broadway, New York

It’s a boozy salute to the holiday season. Over in the NoHo, Great Jones distillery is known for their inventive pop-ups, recently hosting a collaboration honoring the artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. For Whisky Wonderland, they’ve turned their cozy speakeasy into a charming and cheery oasis with a roaring fire, lit-trees and a menorah. As you’re taking in the warm and festive atmosphere, sip on their in-house whiskeys including a special edition Four Grain Straight Bourbon cooked up for the occasion.

Drink this: The Gingerbread Delight cocktail; made with Four Grain Straight Bourbon, cream and egg.

Foul Witch

15 Avenue A, New York

Tucked away in a nondescript location in Manhattan’s Alphabet City lies this inventive eatery from the team behind the popular Roberta’s pizza. True to their tongue-in-cheek name, Foul Witch is known for their unique spins on traditional plates. Forget about the traditional; here the menu is Italian-inspired with ever-changing plates (at press time they include goat shoulder and Maine lobster with Carolina rice). While the restaurant doesn’t feature cocktails, who needs them when you have an extensive and adventurous beer (including suds from Northern Italy) and wine lists, the latter of red, white and orange varieties?

Drink this: Travel to the mountain and seaside region of Veneto with Birra Dolomiti Rossa, an amber red lager.

As You Are

252 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn

Brooklyn’s outpost of the popular ACE Hotel boasts an impressive F&B selection perfect for overnighters in town for the holidays or locals searching for a getaway from the norm. Their in-house restaurant As You Are features eye-popping art and a lean but mighty menu of foodie favorites (including a rib-eye burger and masa fritters), while their bar and lounge in the lobby makes for a perfect place to order a cocktail and shmooze the night away with its cadre of hip clientele. But it’s the cocktails at As You Are which shine bright like a winter sky on a starry night, with inventive concoctions including the Penicillin-adjacent Bond Street (scotch, peach liquor, ginger and lemon).

Drink this: Private Eyes, a refreshing cocktail made with tequila, watermelon, honey and line.

New York Philharmonic

10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York

It’s the historic space that made people like Leonard Bernstein and Gustav Mahler global superstars and showcases some of the best musicians in the world. Founded in 1842, the New York Philharmonic boasts an array of festive programing including Handel’s Messiah and a holiday brass show. Their lobby bar boasts wine, beer and cocktails for before the show and during intermission.

Drink this: Sip a red wine and enjoy a symphony.

The post 7 Unique Places in NYC for a Drink this Holiday Season appeared first on Chilled Magazine.

Source: Mixology News