As the year comes to a close, it's time to start thinking about how you'll celebrate the New Year.
Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a cozy night in, there's nothing quite like a delicious cocktail to help you ring in the new year in style. And when it comes to cocktails, few spirits are as versatile and delicious as bourbon.
Bourbon is a uniquely American spirit that has been enjoyed for centuries. It's made from a mash of at least 51% corn and aged in charred oak barrels, giving it a distinct flavor that's both sweet and smoky.
But bourbon isn't just for sipping neat or on the rocks. It's also a great base for a wide variety of cocktails that are perfect for celebrating the New Year.
Whether you're a seasoned bourbon drinker or just looking to try something new, there's a bourbon cocktail out there that's perfect for you.
From classics like the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan to modern twists like the Bourbon Sour and the Kentucky Mule, there's no shortage of delicious and creative cocktails to choose from. So why not raise a glass of bourbon this New Year's Eve and toast to a happy and prosperous new year?
1. Winter Bourbon Punch
If you're looking for a fruity and flavorful bourbon cocktail to ring in the New Year, the Winter Bourbon Punch is definitely worth a try. This delightful cocktail is perfect for sipping on a cold winter day or serving at a holiday party. The recipe includes a mix of whiskey and fruit juices, creating a unique and delicious taste that is sure to impress your guests.
While the recipe is not included in the article, the Winter Bourbon Punch is definitely worth checking out if you're a fan of bourbon cocktails. So, if you're looking for a tasty and festive drink to serve at your New Year's Eve party, make sure to give this one a try!
2. The Blizzard
"The Blizzard" is a perfect cocktail for the winter season and New Year's celebrations. This bourbon-based drink is slightly sweet and balanced with cranberry juice, lemon juice, and homemade simple syrup. The drink is garnished with cranberries or a slice of lemon, which makes it a beautiful addition to any party.
The cocktail is refreshing, and the bourbon is not overpowering, making it an excellent choice for those who are new to whiskey or bourbon. Overall, "The Blizzard" is a must-try cocktail for anyone who enjoys a well-balanced drink with a hint of sweetness.
3. Bourbon and Honey French 75
Looking for a smooth and well-balanced cocktail to ring in the New Year? Look no further than the Bourbon and Honey French 75. This twist on the classic French 75 features a bit of a whiskey kick and a touch of sweetness from honey.
While technically a French 95, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor profile. Make a big batch ahead of time and add the bubbly just before serving for a festive touch. And if you're looking for more cocktail ideas, be sure to check out the other options in the article.
4. Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors that make it a great drink for any holiday gathering. The cocktail features fresh cranberries simmered in maple syrup, which adds a unique twist to the classic bourbon cocktail.
The maple and cranberry flavors are well-balanced, making the drink taste like a cozy winter evening in a glass. If you're looking for a unique and delicious New Year's Bourbon Cocktail, the Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
5. Vanilla Bourbon Fizz
The Vanilla Bourbon Fizz is a perfect cocktail for those who appreciate the warm and rich flavors of bourbon but prefer a lighter drink. This cocktail features the unique caramel and vanilla notes of bourbon, highlighted by a touch of vanilla extract, and topped with chilled prosecco for a bubbly finish.
The result is a delightful and easy-to-drink cocktail that is perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in. The Vanilla Bourbon Fizz is a must-try for bourbon lovers who want to try something new and exciting this New Year's Eve.
6. Raspberry Bourbon and Bubbles
Looking for a fancy and easy-to-make cocktail to ring in the New Year? Look no further than the Raspberry Bourbon and Bubbles cocktail. This cocktail combines the sweetness of raspberries with the smoothness of bourbon and the effervescence of champagne. The raspberry syrup adds a fruity and slightly tart taste, while the low-proof bourbon ensures that the delicate flavors of the champagne and raspberry are not overwhelmed.
A dash of chocolate bitters adds a hint of richness to the cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to add a touch of elegance to their celebration without sacrificing the kick of bourbon. Try it out and impress your guests with this delicious and festive cocktail.
7. New Year's Eve Honey Bourbon Bubbly Cocktail
The New Year's Eve Honey Bourbon Bubbly Cocktail is a perfect drink to ring in the new year. This simple yet delicious cocktail combines the sweetness of honey with the boldness of bourbon and the fizziness of Prosecco. It's a grown-up version of a college favorite that is sure to impress your guests.
The cocktail is easy to make and perfect for a beginner bartender. The combination of flavors is well-balanced, making it a great choice for those who are not fans of overly sweet drinks. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to serve at your New Year's Eve party, the New Year's Eve Honey Bourbon Bubbly Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect drink to celebrate the New Year. It's a classic winter drink that combines the sweetness of cranberry juice with the strength of bourbon, making it a perfect balance of flavors. The addition of rosemary sage simple syrup adds a fresh, seasonal flavor to the cocktail that works wonderfully with the bourbon and cranberry.
This cocktail is easy to whip up and tastes fantastic, making it a great option for a party-friendly cocktail. The classic choice is a rocks glass, but it can also be served in stemless wine glasses or a classic coupe. If you're looking for a festive drink to ring in the New Year, the Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try.
9. Cherry Bomb
Looking for a delicious and refreshing New Year's Bourbon Cocktail? Look no further than the Cherry Bomb! This cocktail features fresh cherries muddled with rich bourbon, vanilla, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a splash of club soda. The result is a stunning and vibrant drink that is perfect for ending a long day.
The combination of flavors is both sweet and tart, making it a great choice for those who like a little bit of both. Whether you are a bourbon lover or just looking for a new cocktail to try, the Cherry Bomb is a must-try. So why not ring in the new year with this delicious and refreshing drink?
10. A Long Winter's Nap
Looking for a cozy and comforting Bourbon cocktail to ring in the New Year? Look no further than "A Long Winter's Nap." This cocktail is infused with ginger, cardamom, star anise, and maple syrup, with the option to add freshly plucked fir for an extra burst of flavor. The spices give it a delightful and warming flavor, perfect for a cold winter night.
This cocktail can be made with bourbon, rye, or whiskey and is garnished with a lemon slice and star anise pod. It's a great option for a New Year's Eve gathering, and the infused maple syrup can also be used on waffles and pancakes. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
11. Cranberry Orange Bourbon Smash
The Cranberry Orange Bourbon Smash is a delightful cocktail that is perfect for any holiday celebration. This cocktail is made with a blend of freshly squeezed orange juice, cranberry juice, and a generous shot of bourbon. The tartness of the cranberry syrup is balanced perfectly with the sweetness of the orange juice, creating a unique and delicious flavor.
The cocktail is garnished with a few sprigs of thyme, which adds a mature winter aroma and flavor to the drink. The Cranberry Orange Bourbon Smash is an excellent choice for anyone who loves a good bourbon cocktail. It's a perfect drink to enjoy with friends and family during the holiday season.
12. Maple Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Maple Old Fashioned Cocktail is a perfect choice for bourbon lovers who want to try something new this New Year's Eve. This classic cocktail is made with high-quality bourbon, a hint of maple syrup, and a generous twist of orange peel, which adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the drink. The maple syrup brings out the warm, rich, caramel-y flavors in the bourbon, making it a perfectly balanced cocktail.
The addition of bitters and a Luxardo cherry on top adds to the complexity of the drink. This cocktail is a great choice for those who want to enjoy the traditional taste of bourbon with a modern twist. Try this delicious cocktail at your New Year's Eve party and impress your guests with your bartending skills.
13. S'mores Old Fashioned
Looking for a unique and flavorful bourbon cocktail to serve at your New Year's Eve party? Look no further than the S'mores Old Fashioned. This cocktail combines the classic flavors of an Old Fashioned with the sweet and smoky taste of s'mores. Made with toasted marshmallow syrup, chocolate whiskey, and a touch of smoke, this cocktail is sure to be a hit with your guests.
The Bittermen's Xocolotl Mole bitters add just the right amount of heat to balance out the sweetness of the marshmallow syrup. Serve this cocktail over one large ice cube to avoid over-dilution and garnish with a s'more for the perfect finishing touch. Your guests will love the unique and delicious flavors of the S'mores Old Fashioned.
14. Bourbon Grapefruit Smash
Looking for a refreshing and flavorful cocktail to ring in the New Year? Look no further than the Bourbon Grapefruit Smash. This wintry twist on the classic Bourbon Smash combines fresh rosemary, grapefruit juice, and Lillet blanc for a sweet and tangy flavor that packs a serious punch.
While the recipe only makes two drinks, it's easy to scale up for a crowd by making a big pitcher of the grapefruit juice, bourbon, and Lillet mixture. With its festive flavors and easy preparation, the Bourbon Grapefruit Smash is sure to be a hit at any New Year's Eve party.
15. French 95
The French 95 is a bourbon cocktail with a bubbly twist. It's a variation of the classic French 75, but with the addition of bourbon for an extra kick.
The combination of bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup creates a perfectly balanced flavor that any bourbon lover will appreciate. Plus, the addition of Prosecco adds a festive touch that makes it perfect for New Year's Eve celebrations.
16. Perfect Manhattan
If you're looking for a bold and herbaceous cocktail with bitter-sweet undertones, the Perfect Manhattan is the perfect boozy beverage for any occasion. This classic cocktail has a mysterious history, adding to its overall appeal. Made with rye whiskey, bitters, and sweet vermouth, the Perfect Manhattan offers depth and intrigue, making it a sophisticated choice for any New Year's celebration.
Sip and savor the flavors over time, as this cocktail is meant to be enjoyed slowly. If you're looking for a mocktail version, The Telegraph has a great recipe to try. Overall, the Perfect Manhattan is a timeless cocktail that is sure to impress any bourbon lover.
17. Christmas Manhattan Cocktail
The Christmas Manhattan Cocktail is a festive twist on the classic whiskey cocktail. Infused with mulling spices and orange spice syrup, this cocktail has all the flavors of the holiday season. The addition of Rivulet pecan liqueur and orange bitters ties the flavors together and adds a thicker mouthfeel.
The choice of Woodford Reserve as the base spirit allows the infused flavors to shine through while still complementing the bourbon's own notes. This cocktail can be easily batched for a party and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. If you're looking for a holiday-inspired bourbon cocktail to impress your guests this New Year's Eve, the Christmas Manhattan Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
18. Red Moon Over Manhattan Cocktail
If you're looking for a unique and sophisticated cocktail to ring in the New Year, the Red Moon Over Manhattan Cocktail is definitely worth considering. This twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail incorporates red wine, giving it a rich and complex flavor that is sure to impress your guests.
Garnished with orange peel and a maraschino cherry, this cocktail is visually stunning and perfect for any occasion. It's also fairly low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you're hosting a New Year's Eve party or just looking for a cozy night in, the Red Moon Over Manhattan Cocktail is a must-try.
19. Midnight Manhattan Cocktail
The Midnight Manhattan cocktail is a perfect choice for those who want to add a twist to the classic Manhattan cocktail. Created by the famed bartender Travis Fourmont, this cocktail brings an essence of cherry and astringency to the whiskey-forward drink.
The complex layers of flavors in this cocktail make it stand out from the rest, and it's no wonder Fourmont won the 2013 Master of the Manhattan award with this recipe. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even substitute bourbon with rye to add a spicy kick to the drink. The Midnight Manhattan cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests with a sophisticated and unique cocktail this New Year's Eve.
20. Bourbon Old Fashioned
The Bourbon Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail made with bourbon, sugar, bitters, orange, and a cherry. However, the quality and quantity of ingredients can greatly affect the flavor. The Minimalist Baker took on the task of testing each ingredient to create a perfect recipe.
They found that turbinado sugar, small batch bourbons, Maraska cherries, and spritzed orange peel were the best options. The True Cubes ice mold was also recommended for creating clear ice cubes. The end result is a well-balanced cocktail with complex flavors that can be enjoyed as a celebratory drink to ring in the New Year.
21. The Scofflaw
"The Scofflaw" is a classic bourbon-based cocktail that was named after those who drank illegally during the Prohibition era. This delicious drink is perfect for bourbon lovers and is sure to impress guests at any New Year's Eve party. The cocktail is made with bourbon, dry vermouth, lemon juice, grenadine, and a dash of orange bitters.
It has a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a refreshing and satisfying drink. The Scofflaw is a great choice for those who want to try something new and exciting this New Year's Eve. So, why not add a touch of rebellion to your celebrations and give "The Scofflaw" a try?
22. Boulevardier
If you're looking for a classic Bourbon cocktail to ring in the New Year, the Boulevardier is a must-try. Made with Bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth, this vintage cocktail is a perfect balance of bitter and sweet flavors. The recipe dates back to 1927 and has stood the test of time as a beloved cocktail among Bourbon enthusiasts.
While the first sip may be a bit of a shock to the palate due to its bitterness, the Boulevardier is a truly great cocktail that is worth trying. It's important to use a decent Bourbon for this recipe, such as Four Roses single barrel, Maker's Mark, or Buffalo Trace. Overall, if you're a fan of Bourbon and vintage cocktails, the Boulevardier is a must-try for your New Year's celebration.
23. Cranberry Old Fashioned
Looking for a festive and delicious cocktail to ring in the New Year? Look no further than the Cranberry Old Fashioned. This cocktail recipe is perfect for those who love the classic Old Fashioned but want to add a seasonal twist. The addition of cranberry simple syrup gives the drink a tart and sweet flavor that perfectly complements the smoothness of the bourbon.
The splash of bitters adds a hint of spice and depth to the cocktail. The Cranberry Old Fashioned is not only delicious but also beautiful, with its deep red color and garnish of fresh cranberries. It's the perfect cocktail to impress your guests and celebrate the start of a new year.
24. Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail
Looking for a New Year's Bourbon Cocktail that's both sweet and strong? Look no further than the Bourbon Pecan Pie Cocktail. This cocktail combines the flavors of pecan pie with the bite of bourbon and vodka, making for a drink that's perfect for those who love dessert-inspired cocktails.
While it may be sweeter than other cocktails, don't be fooled – this drink is definitely strong. Plus, it's easy to make over ice or as a martini. And if you're looking for more seasonal favorites, be sure to check out the other cocktails listed in the article. Trust us, you won't be disappointed.
25. Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned Cocktail is a classic cocktail with a twist. It's infused with sweet and smoky flavors, made with smoked, muddled cherries, smoked cherry simple syrup, Anastoga bitters, and campfire whiskey.
The natural warmth of the whiskey pairs seamlessly with the subtle hint of smoke only softened by the sweetness of seasonal cherries. It's perfect for those who love to experiment with new flavors and enjoy a classic cocktail with a twist.
26. Smoked Manhattan With Cinnamon
The Smoked Manhattan with Cinnamon is a perfect New Year's Bourbon Cocktail recipe for those who love the classic Manhattan but want to add a twist to it. This cocktail combines bourbon, sweet vermouth, bitters, maraschino cherry syrup, and smoked cinnamon to create a warm and spicy flavor that is perfect for the holiday season.
The burnt cinnamon stick adds a smoky flavor that complements the warmth of the cinnamon and bourbon, creating a cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a cold winter night. This cocktail is easy to make and is sure to impress your guests at any New Year's Eve party. Try this Smoked Manhattan with Cinnamon recipe and enjoy the rich, deep flavors of this classic cocktail with a twist.
27. New York Sour
The New York Sour is a twist on the classic whiskey sour that is perfect for New Year's Eve celebrations. This cocktail features a float of dry red wine on top of a frothy egg white and whiskey mixture. The egg white gives the drink a silky smooth texture, while the red wine adds a touch of complexity and depth to the flavor profile.
This cocktail is a must-try for whiskey lovers looking to elevate their New Year's Eve celebrations. So, if you're looking to impress your guests with a sophisticated and delicious cocktail, give the New York Sour a try. Cheers to a happy and boozy New Year!
28. Black Manhattan
Looking for a unique twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail? Look no further than the Black Manhattan. This sophisticated and complex cocktail swaps out sweet vermouth for Italian amaro, giving it a boozy kick with notes of caramel and chocolate on the finish.
The addition of Luxardo cherry and bitters adds even more complexity and intrigue to this modern classic. Whether you prefer rye or bourbon, this cocktail is perfect for the adventurous home bartender looking to impress their guests with a one-of-a-kind New Year's Bourbon Cocktail.
29. Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan Cocktail is a classic and well-known drink that originated in New York City in the mid-1800s. Made with either rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters, this cocktail is a staple at any reputable bar or restaurant.
For those who prefer a lighter, smoother taste, the Perfect Manhattan is made with equal parts sweet and dry vermouth.
This cocktail is perfect for those who want to ring in the New Year with a classic drink that has stood the test of time. With its rich history and delicious taste, the Manhattan Cocktail is sure to impress any bourbon lover.
So, whether you're celebrating with friends or enjoying a quiet night in, the Manhattan Cocktail is a must-try for any New Year's celebration.
30. Pomegranate Side Car Cocktail
The Pomegranate Side Car Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Sidecar cocktail. Made with pomegranate juice, bourbon or whiskey, Cointreau, and lemon juice, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The deep garnet color of the pomegranate juice adds a festive touch to any New Year's celebration.
The origins of the Sidecar cocktail date back to World War I, and this version adds a modern twist to a classic recipe. If you're looking for a unique and delicious bourbon cocktail to serve at your New Year's party, the Pomegranate Side Car Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
31. Paper Plane
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful bourbon cocktail to ring in the New Year, look no further than the Paper Plane. Equal parts Aperol, bourbon, Amaro, and fresh lemon juice, this cocktail packs a punch while still maintaining a balance that makes it dangerously sessionable.
Created by bartender Sam Ross in 2007, the Paper Plane is a modern take on the pre-prohibition cocktail "The Last Word". While the two cocktails share equal parts of citrus and ingredients, the Paper Plane stands on its own with its unique flavor profile. With its bright orange color and refreshing taste, the Paper Plane is sure to be a hit at any New Year's celebration.
