Cocktails

21 Rye Whiskey Holiday Cocktails to Spice Up Your Festivities!

21 Best Rye Whiskey Holiday Cocktails

As the holiday season approaches, it's time to start thinking about what drinks you'll be serving at your gatherings. And what better way to warm up your guests than with a delicious Rye Whiskey cocktail?

Rye Whiskey is a classic spirit that has been enjoyed for centuries, and it's no surprise that it's a popular choice during the holiday season.

Rye Whiskey is a type of whiskey that is made from at least 51% rye grain. It has a distinct flavor profile that is often described as spicy and robust, with notes of caramel and vanilla.

This makes it the perfect spirit to mix with other ingredients to create a variety of delicious cocktails.

Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a large party, Rye Whiskey cocktails are sure to impress your guests. And with so many different recipes to choose from, you're sure to find one that suits your taste.

From classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Old Fashioned, to more modern creations like the Gingerbread Sour and the Spiced Pear Fizz, there's something for everyone.

So, if you're looking to add some warmth and flavor to your holiday gatherings, look no further than Rye Whiskey cocktails.

With their rich, complex flavors and endless variety, they're sure to be a hit with your guests. So, break out your shakers and mixers, and let's get mixing!

1. Orange Frost Cocktail

Orange Frost Cocktail

The Orange Frost Cocktail is a refreshing and festive holiday cocktail that is perfect for any holiday party. Made with Sagamore Spirit rye whiskey, lemon and orange juices, and maple syrup, this cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. What sets Sagamore Spirit apart is that it is made on a local farm with pure and naturally filtered spring water, fed from a limestone aquifer.

Rye whiskey is inherently warming and the rye grain used in this cocktail gives it a unique and delicious flavor. Hosting a party? Create a festive Sagamore Spirit “make your own cocktail” bar and serve Orange Frost Cocktails alongside other delicious holiday cocktails. Just remember to enjoy responsibly and only serve to those who are 21 years or older.

2. Holiday Whiskey Fizz

Holiday Whiskey Fizz

The Holiday Whiskey Fizz is a festive and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any holiday party. Made with Sagamore Spirits rye whiskey, club soda, cranberry syrup, and lime juice, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. The fragrant rosemary and fresh cranberries garnish add a beautiful touch to the presentation of the cocktail.

The use of Sagamore Spirits rye whiskey, which is made with pure and naturally filtered spring water, adds a unique and delicious taste to the cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a whiskey cocktail that is not too sweet or too strong. It is a great addition to any holiday party, and guests will surely enjoy sipping on this bubbly and flavorful cocktail.

3. Persimmon Rye Cocktail

Persimmon Rye Cocktail

The Persimmon Rye Cocktail is a delightful holiday drink that is sure to please anyone who enjoys a good whiskey cocktail. Made with ripe persimmons, rich maple syrup, and a medley of warm spices, this cocktail is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy. The addition of rye whiskey gives it a bold and robust flavor that is perfect for the colder months.

The orange bitters add a bit of complexity and balance out the sweetness of the maple syrup. This cocktail is perfect for anyone who loves the taste of rye whiskey and wants to try something new this holiday season. If you're looking for a festive and flavorful cocktail to serve at your next holiday gathering, give the Persimmon Rye Cocktail a try.

4. Sparkling Honey Rye Whiskey Cocktail

Sparkling Honey Rye Whiskey Cocktail

If you're looking for a unique and tasty cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Sparkling Honey Rye Whiskey Cocktail is a must-try. This cocktail combines the spiciness of rye whiskey with the sweetness of honey and the tartness of lemon juice. The addition of sparkling wine adds a festive touch to the drink, making it perfect for any celebration.

The cocktail can be served in a variety of glasses and garnished with lemon wedges or rinds for an extra burst of flavor. Overall, the Sparkling Honey Rye Whiskey Cocktail is a delicious and easy-to-make drink that is sure to impress your guests this holiday season.

5. Ruby Red Jubilee Cocktail

Ruby Red Jubilee Cocktail

The Ruby Red Jubilee Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious holiday drink. Made with Sagamore Spirit rye whiskey, grapefruit and lime juice, and cinnamon syrup, this cocktail has a sharp citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with the brown spirit. It's a perfect drink to enjoy while sitting in front of a crackling fire or at holiday parties.

What makes this cocktail even more special is that it uses fresh juice whenever possible, making it a healthy option that's high in vitamins and antioxidants. So, if you're looking for a festive and delicious drink to serve at your next holiday gathering, be sure to add the Ruby Red Jubilee Cocktail to your list.

6. Cranberry Manhattan

Cranberry Manhattan

The Cranberry Manhattan is a delightful twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, perfect for the holiday season. Made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, cranberry juice, and cranberry sauce, this cocktail is bursting with seasonal flavors and a beautiful deep red color.

The addition of orange bitters adds a subtle citrus note, while fresh cranberries and an orange peel garnish make it visually stunning. This cocktail is sure to impress your guests at any holiday party or cozy night in. If you're looking for a festive and flavorful rye whiskey cocktail, the Cranberry Manhattan is a must-try.

7. Ward 8 Cocktail

Ward 8 Cocktail

The Ward 8 Cocktail is a lesser-known classic rye whiskey cocktail that deserves a revival. It's a spin on the whiskey sour but with a perfectly balanced and tart flavor. The rye whiskey is not overpowering, and there's just a hint of spice on the finish.

The cocktail features sweet orange juice and bright red grenadine for sweetness and color, making it a super balanced and intriguing drink. The Ward 8 is easy to make, and it's a classy cocktail that works for any occasion. If you're a fan of rye whiskey, this cocktail is a must-try.

8. Cold Toddy

Cold Toddy

The Cold Toddy is a unique twist on the classic hot toddy, perfect for those who prefer a chilled drink. This cocktail is infused with warm spices and made with rye whiskey, giving it a cozy and seasonal feel. The earl grey tea syrup adds a touch of sophistication and depth to the drink, making it perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights in.

The best part is that it's a batch cocktail, so you can easily serve it to a group of guests without having to spend too much time behind the bar. If you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful holiday cocktail, the Cold Toddy is definitely worth a try.

9. Berry Naughty

Berry Naughty

Looking for a festive and flavorful Rye Whiskey Holiday Cocktail? Look no further than the "Berry Naughty." This winterized Cosmopolitan features tart cranberry and fresh lemon juice, balanced by sweet orange liqueur and Benedictine.

A dash of celery bitters adds a savory note, while garnishes of dried plums (for the "naughty" list) or a skewered cranberry and fresh mint leaves (for the "nice" list) add a fun touch. Whether you've been naughty or nice this year, the "Berry Naughty" is sure to please.

10. Classic Manhattan

Classic Manhattan

The Classic Manhattan is a timeless cocktail that blends rye whiskey and sweet vermouth. The secret ingredient is cherry juice, which adds sweetness and complexity to the drink. Luxardo Maraschino cocktail cherries are the key to making this cocktail stand out.

They are sour Marasca cherries preserved in Luxrado Liqueur, which is made of the cherries themselves. If you want to impress your guests this holiday season, the Classic Manhattan is the perfect choice.

11. Boulevardier Cocktail

Boulevardier Cocktail

The Boulevardier Cocktail is a classic winter whiskey cocktail that is a twist on the Negroni, using rye whiskey instead of gin.

It has a rich and complex flavor profile, with the bitterness of Campari balanced by the sweetness of vermouth and the boldness of rye whiskey. It's a perfect drink for those who love whiskey and want to try something new.

12. Manhattan Cocktail

Manhattan Cocktail

The Manhattan Cocktail is a timeless classic that has been around since the late 1800s. It's a simple yet sophisticated blend of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters that creates a smooth and aromatic flavor profile with a touch of sweetness. While purists believe that a Manhattan should only be made with rye whiskey, bourbon can also be used for a milder and sweeter taste.

The key to a great Manhattan is using high-quality ingredients and stirring the cocktail instead of shaking it. The addition of sweet cocktail cherries as a garnish adds a perfect finishing touch. The Manhattan Cocktail is a perfect choice for any holiday celebration or special occasion.

13. Old Pal Cocktail

Old Pal Cocktail

The Old Pal Cocktail is a classic whiskey cocktail that is perfect for the holidays. Made with rye whiskey, Campari, and dry vermouth, this cocktail is easy to make and even easier to sip. With its spicy and bitter flavors, it's a great alternative to the traditional sweet holiday cocktails.

The bright and refreshing taste of the dry vermouth pairs perfectly with the spicy rye whiskey, while the Campari adds a touch of bitterness to balance it all out. The orange twist garnish adds a nice touch of citrus to the drink. If you're looking for a simple yet sophisticated cocktail to serve at your holiday party, the Old Pal Cocktail is definitely worth trying.

14. Partridge in a Pear Tree

Partridge In A Pear Tree

Looking for a unique and delicious holiday cocktail recipe? Look no further than the "Partridge in a Pear Tree" cocktail. This cocktail pays homage to the often-overlooked partridge bird and features a smooth and fruity flavor thanks to the combination of Crown Royal Rye Whiskey and pear nectar.

While the recipe required some trial and error to perfect, the end result is a drink that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you're a fan of rye whiskey or not, this cocktail is worth a try. So why not add a little sparkle to your holiday party with this glowing golden drink?

15. Smokey Sweet Tea Old Fashioned

Smokey Sweet Tea Old Fashioned

The "Smokey Sweet Tea Old Fashioned" is a unique and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. Made with High West Campfire Whiskey and Yaupon Tea Simple Syrup, this modern twist on a classic cocktail is a must-try for whiskey lovers. The Yaupon tea adds a complex and smoky flavor to the drink, making it stand out from other old fashioned cocktails.

What's more, Yaupon tea is a superfood that is sustainably grown and harvested in Florida, making this cocktail not only delicious but also environmentally friendly. If you're looking for a holiday cocktail that is both delicious and unique, the "Smokey Sweet Tea Old Fashioned" is definitely worth a try.

16. Fig Jam Whiskey Cocktail

Fig Jam Whiskey Cocktail

The Fig Jam Whiskey Cocktail is a delightful holiday drink that combines the richness of rye whiskey with the sweetness of fig jam. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a fruity and slightly sweet drink with a hint of spice. The cocktail is easy to make and can be customized to your liking by adding your favorite spices or fruits.

The garnish of fresh fig and rosemary adds a festive touch to the drink, making it a perfect addition to your holiday party menu. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to impress your guests, the Fig Jam Whiskey Cocktail is definitely worth a try.

17. Cherry Manhattan

Cherry Manhattan

If you're looking for a festive and sophisticated cocktail to serve during the holidays, the Cherry Manhattan is a must-try. This classic cocktail gets a twist with the use of Amarena cherries, which are a more affordable and arguably even tastier alternative to Luxardo cherries.

The cocktail is traditionally made with rye whiskey, but bourbon or Canadian whiskey can also be used. The sweetness of the whiskey is balanced by the cherry and vermouth, creating a perfectly balanced and flavorful drink. Served in a stylish whiskey glass or snifter, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday celebrations.

18. Fig Whiskey Cocktail

Fig Whiskey Cocktail

The Fig Whiskey Cocktail is a perfect addition to your holiday cocktail list. This cocktail is made with rye whiskey, giving it a grassy taste, and is sweetened with fig jam. The cinnamon in the fig jam adds a warm and spicy flavor to the drink, making it perfect for a cozy night in.

A sprig of lemon balm on top adds a refreshing touch to the cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those who want a quick and easy drink without having to make simple syrup. The Fig Whiskey Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet and spicy cocktail.

19. Winter Beer Sangria

Winter Beer Sangria

One of the standout recipes in the best Rye Whiskey Holiday Cocktail article is the Winter Beer Sangria. This unique twist on a classic drink uses a bock lager brewed with ginger, orange peel, and cinnamon instead of red wine, giving it a rich yet crisp flavor with hints of winter spices.

The dry rye whiskey adds a distinguished taste without being too sweet, while the sparkling water and tangerine flavor lighten up the drink. The fruit mix contributes tart and slightly sweet flavors, and the cinnamon stick garnish adds a delightful aroma. This cocktail is perfect for those looking for a festive and refreshing drink that is sure to impress guests.

20. Hot Jammed Old Fashioned

Hot Jammed Old Fashioned

Looking for a unique and intriguing Rye Whiskey Holiday Cocktail recipe? Look no further than the Hot Jammed Old Fashioned. This complex and original cocktail features hot pepper jelly, five spice bitters, peach liqueur, and bourbon smoked sugar, creating a savory and spicy flavor profile that is sure to impress.

The addition of the peach liqueur ties together the sweet and spicy flavors, while the bourbon smoked sugar adds a touch of smokiness to the drink. Garnished with a Five Spice-infused dried orange wheel, this cocktail is perfect for those who love weird flavor combinations. If you're looking for a cocktail that will surprise and delight your guests this holiday season, give the Hot Jammed Old Fashioned a try.

21. Black Manhattan

Black Manhattan

The Black Manhattan is a modern twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, perfect for those who love a strong and boozy drink with a unique flavor. This cocktail swaps out sweet vermouth for an Italian amaro called Averna, which gives it a caramel and chocolate finish.

The use of rye whiskey adds a spicy flavor, while the Luxardo cherry garnish and bitters add complexity to the drink. This sophisticated and complex cocktail is perfect for the adventurous home bartender looking for a unique and delicious holiday drink. If you're a fan of the classic Manhattan, you'll definitely want to give the Black Manhattan a try.