The holidays are here, and it’s time to ditch the eggnog and pour yourself something a little more local. At It’s About Wine, we’re all about crafting unique beverages that bring people together, so we’ve whipped up three festive cocktails that showcase the best of what our customers can create. Whether you’re looking for a bubbly toast, a warming mug of spiced cider, or a decadent sip of something sweet, these recipes are packed with holiday cheer—and a splash of personality. So grab your creations and let’s get this party started!
1. Cranberry Sparkle Sangria
This isn’t your average sangria—it’s a holiday party starter featuring your own It’s About Wine Grenache Rosé and a splash of spirits!
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of Grenache Rosé (or White Zinfandel)
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup orange Triple Sec (or Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Fresh cranberries, orange slices, and a sprig of rosemary for garnish
- Club soda for some fizzy holiday fun
Instructions:
- Mix the wine, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and sugar in a large pitcher. Stir until you’ve got a grin as wide as Santa’s!
- Add cranberries and orange slices for a dash of festive flair.
- Chill overnight, (or at least 2 hours!) resisting any sneak sips.
- Before serving, add club soda and garnish with rosemary to impress your guests.
This sangria blends your own wine with the best spirits—what’s not to love?
2. Raspberry Chocolate Port Martini
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Chocolate Raspberry Dessert Wine
- 1/2 cup Chocolate Liqueur
- 1/4 cup Raspberry Liqueur
- 2 tbsp cream or milk for extra decadence
- Ice cubes for shaking
- Shaved chocolate for topping
- Rim of cocoa powder
Instructions:
- Rim your martini glass with cocoa powder—extra points for adding a pinch of cinnamon sugar!
- In a shaker filled with ice, add the port, chocolate liqueur, raspberry liqueur, and cream. Shake until you feel your holiday spirit rising.
- Strain into your prepared glass and sprinkle chocolate shavings on top.
- Sip, savour, and take a moment to appreciate the best dessert wine you ever made!
This martini is a toast to luxury—and to you, our favourite It’s About Wine crafters!
3. Warm Spiced Holiday Cider
A cozy and aromatic cocktail featuring Dry BC Cider, simmered with warming spices, citrus, and a hint of sweetness to bring out the holiday spirit.
Ingredients:
- 1 750ml bottle of Dry BC Cider
- 1/2 cup fresh apple juice
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 cloves
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
- 2 oz Spiced Rum
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine Dry BC Cider, apple juice, maple syrup or honey, orange slices, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise (if using), and ginger.
- Warm the mixture over low heat. Avoid boiling to retain the cider’s flavour; instead, let it gently simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
- Add the spiced rum during the last 5 minutes of heating.
- Ladle the warm spiced cider into mugs. Garnish with an orange slice, cinnamon stick, or a few floating cloves for a festive presentation.
Cozy, fragrant, and full of holiday warmth—this Warm Spiced Holiday Cider is perfect for chilly nights and holiday gatherings, with Dry BC Cider as the staple.
This warming drink has the flavorful depth of the classic red version but is lighter in body. Choose a white that’s not too acidic, such as a Viognier or an oaked Chardonnay (wines that are more astringent can develop a harsh edge when heated).
