As a bartender, I have had the pleasure of serving drinks to patrons from all walks of life. From college students to seasoned professionals, each customer has their own unique taste and preferences.
However, there is one event that seems to bring everyone together – the Winter Olympics.
Every four years, people from all over the world come together to celebrate the spirit of competition and athletic prowess.
Whether you are a die-hard sports fan or just enjoy watching the spectacle, there is something for everyone at the Winter Olympics. And what better way to enjoy the games than with a delicious and refreshing drink in hand?
As a bartender, I have spent countless hours experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create the perfect Winter Olympic cocktail.
From classic recipes to modern twists, there is no shortage of options when it comes to mixing up the perfect drink for the occasion. And with the 2022 Winter Olympics just around the corner, there has never been a better time to share my favorite recipes with the world.
So whether you are rooting for your favorite team or simply enjoying the games from the comfort of your own home, I invite you to join me on a journey through the best Winter Olympic cocktail recipes.
From the slopes of Pyeongchang to the bars of New York City, let's raise a glass to the athletes and the spirit of competition that brings us all together.
1. Vodka Lemonade
If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail to enjoy while watching the Winter Olympics, look no further than the classic Vodka Lemonade. This two-ingredient cocktail is perfect for those who want a simple yet delicious drink that can be easily customized to their liking.
Whether you use store-bought or homemade lemonade, the combination of vodka and lemonade creates a thirst-quenching cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Plus, you can add your own twist to the cocktail by using flavored vodkas or adding fresh or frozen fruit. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the Winter Olympics with a refreshing Vodka Lemonade in hand.
2. Sparkling Vodka Lemonade
The Sparkling Vodka Lemonade is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that's perfect for warm summer nights. Made with just three ingredients – vodka, lemonade, and soda water – it's a fizzy and refreshing drink that's great for sharing.
The addition of soda water cuts the sweetness of the lemonade and adds a nice fizz. It's a perfect choice if you're looking for something light and refreshing to enjoy during the Winter Olympics.
3. Bourbon Maple Leaf
The Bourbon Maple Leaf is a perfect winter cocktail, made with bourbon and real maple syrup. It has a sweet and smoky flavor and can be served on the rocks.
It's perfect for sipping on a cold evening and pairs well with comfort food. Overall, it's a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves bourbon and wants to enjoy a delicious winter drink.
4. Salted Caramel White Russian Cocktail
Looking for a decadent and indulgent cocktail to sip on while watching the Winter Olympics? Look no further than the Salted Caramel White Russian Cocktail. This twist on the classic White Russian adds the sweetness of caramel and a hint of flaky sea salt, creating a delicious after-dinner drink that's perfect for cold winter nights.
Made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and heavy cream, this cocktail is easy to make and sure to impress your guests. So why not mix up a batch and enjoy a taste of luxury while you cheer on your favorite athletes?
5. Refreshing Spiced Orange and Cranberry Spritz
The Refreshing Spiced Orange and Cranberry Spritz is a perfect winter cocktail that combines the refreshing taste of Prosecco with the warm flavors of spiced orange cranberry simple syrup.
The addition of cinnamon sticks and cloves gives it a cozy and warm feeling, perfect for those chilly winter nights. Overall, it is a delicious and refreshing winter cocktail that will impress your guests and make any occasion special.
6. Cherry Moscow Mule
The Cherry Moscow Mule is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic Moscow Mule cocktail. Made with fresh cherries, vodka, cherry liqueur, lime juice, and ginger beer, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion, from Valentine's Day to Christmas.
The cocktail is light, fizzy, and not too sweet, with a kick from the ginger. The pink hue and cherry garnish make it a pretty addition to any cocktail menu. If you're looking for a fun and unique cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Cherry Moscow Mule is definitely worth a try.
7. The Southside
Looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to serve at your Winter Olympic viewing party? Look no further than The Southside! This fusion-style drink puts a twist on the classic gin cocktail by incorporating sake, a Japanese fermented rice liquor.
The sake's neutral flavor pairs perfectly with lemon, lime, and fresh mint to create a bright and intriguing complexity that will keep you sipping all night long. Plus, with the ability to use any type of sake you have on hand, this cocktail is a versatile and easy option for impressing guests or using up leftover sake. Don't miss out on this delicious and unexpected Winter Olympic Cocktail!
8. Lychee Lime Fizz
The Lychee Lime Fizz is a refreshing and light cocktail that's perfect for cooling off on hot summer nights. With subtle flavors of lychee and lime, this cocktail is reminiscent of a meringue, as described by the creator's husband. While not AIP or Paleo, this cocktail is a great addition to any summer gathering.
The recipe involves muddling mint leaves and lychees with syrup from the can, adding honey, vodka, and lime juice, shaking with ice, and straining into ice-filled glasses topped with sparkling water. Garnish with a few additional lychees for a beautiful presentation. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to try, the Lychee Lime Fizz is definitely worth a shot.
9. Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail
The Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail is a delightful winter drink that is perfect for sipping on a cold evening. The combination of gin, grapefruit juice, and elderflower liqueur creates a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The addition of St. Germain adds a touch of sweetness to the drink, making it smooth and easy to drink.
The cocktail is simple yet elegant, with a beautiful pink color that is sure to impress your guests. If you're looking for a refreshing winter drink that is both sweet and sour, the Gin, Grapefruit and Elderflower Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
10. Sour Plum Drink
Looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to try during the Winter Olympics? Look no further than the Sour Plum Drink! This Chinese-inspired drink is a centuries-old thirst quencher that is perfect for cooling down during the summer months. Despite its name, this sweet and tart drink is surprisingly refreshing and perfect for those who enjoy fruity cocktails.
The key ingredients are dried sour plums and hawthorn berries, but feel free to mix and match with other dried ingredients to suit your taste. Some even consider this drink to have medicinal properties, making it a healthy choice for the whole family. Give the Sour Plum Drink a try and experience a taste of traditional Chinese culture!
11. Ginger Cinnamon Punch
If you're looking for a unique and healthy winter cocktail, look no further than the Ginger Cinnamon Punch. This Korean dessert drink is infused with anti-microbial ginger and cinnamon, making it a smart choice for those looking to stay healthy during the Winter Olympics. The punch is traditionally served with dried persimmon and is perfect for sipping on after a big meal, especially at Korean BBQ restaurants.
While some may find the spiciness of the drink overwhelming, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavors and sweetness. Plus, the use of Chinese cinnamon gives the punch a beautiful red color without the need for added brown sugar. Give this festive and flavorful cocktail a try at your next winter gathering.
12. Blood Orange Margaritas
Looking for a refreshing and seasonal cocktail to enjoy during the Winter Olympics? Look no further than the Blood Orange Margarita. This on-the-rocks margarita is made with freshly squeezed blood orange juice, tequila, orange liqueur, and sugar, resulting in a deliciously tangy and sweet drink with a stunningly colored flesh.
The blood oranges are in season from December through March, making it the perfect cocktail to enjoy during the winter months. Whether you're hosting a viewing party or just looking for a tasty way to warm up, the Blood Orange Margarita is sure to impress.
13. Chocolate Martini
The Chocolate Martini is a decadent cocktail that is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. This chocolate lover's dream is made with chocolate liquor, creme de cocoa, vodka, and half & half. The rim of the glass is coated with grated chocolate, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
The key to the perfect Chocolate Martini is shaking the ingredients with ice, which chills the cocktail without diluting it too much. Overall, this delicious and easy-to-make cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves chocolate.
14. Gold Champagne Jello Shots
If you're looking for a festive and elegant addition to your Winter Olympic party, look no further than the Gold Champagne Jello Shots. These shimmering shots are made with cranberry juice, champagne, and unflavored gelatin, and topped with edible gold sugar for a touch of glamour.
The recipe is easy to follow and the result is a fun and adult treat that will impress your guests. These jello shots are perfect for any occasion that requires something a little special, and are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. So why not add a touch of gold to your party with these delicious and beautiful Gold Champagne Jello Shots?
15. Bicerin
Looking for a unique and indulgent Winter Olympic cocktail? Look no further than the Bicerin. Hailing from the chocolate capital of Italy, Turin, this classic Italian hot chocolate and espresso drink is a decadent treat. Layered with European-style hot chocolate, dark espresso coffee, and heavy whipping cream, the Bicerin is a small but mighty drink that packs a punch.
The layers of flavors and textures make for a truly special sipping experience. While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, the Bicerin has been enjoyed for centuries at the historic Caffè Al Bicerin. If you're looking for a luxurious and memorable Winter Olympic cocktail, the Bicerin is a must-try.
16. Virgin Sangria
If you're looking for a refreshing and fruity non-alcoholic option for your Winter Olympic party, then the Virgin Sangria is a must-try. This drink is a twist on the classic Spanish wine cocktail, but without the alcohol. It's made with fresh fruit, sparkling water, and a splash of juice, making it a healthy and tasty option for everyone in the family.
The colorful and Instagrammable drink is perfect for a daytime office potluck, baby shower, or kid's birthday party. The best part? You won't have to worry about anyone getting a little too tipsy or hungover the next day. Give this Virgin Sangria a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of summer in the middle of winter.
