Getting into the Holiday Spirit
Chilly evenings call for warming cocktails. At home, a sherried whiskey or hot toddy stirred with honey and nutmeg are easy-to-craft options. But when out on the town, why not try something more adventurous? Throughout the holidays, Newport Beach restaurants are serving festive seasonal cocktails shaken with spicy ingredients like cinnamon, clove and gingerbread to get you in the holiday spirit — while others celebrate the winter season beach-style, with tropical-inspired treats offered for a limited time. Here are five to try.
Ginger Bread Martini
This sweet and spicy cocktail comprises vanilla vodka, RumChata and gingerbread liqueur, shaken with ice and poured into a classic martini glass. Finely ground gingerbread cookie crumbs line the rim, adding a hint of savory spice with every sip. Available through the end of December.
Spice on Ice
This special cocktail, created by bartender April Holliday, enhances Iwai Tradition Japanese Whisky with St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur, clove simple syrup, crushed clove bud and fresh orange juice. A dash of black-walnut bitters adds a Nobu-style touch for a cozy holiday treat. Available through the end of December.
Black Walnut Espresso Martini
Need a boost to help you bustle through last-minute holiday shopping? Van Gogh vanilla vodka,
Lavazza espresso and black-walnut liqueur cream come together to lend a jolly jolt. Created by bartender Leo Montesinos, the full-bodied beverage was designed for December, but bartenders will gladly craft it upon request well into the new year.
Sonoma Club Cobbler
Served at the Andrea Bar and in the Great Room Social Lounge, this fruity holiday spirit will keep you comfortably numb while relaxing by the roaring fire. Made with a bounty of fresh fruit, the Sonoma Club is reminiscent of a holiday fruit cobbler. The delicious dessert drink is made with Vivier Rose, Grey Goose l’Poire, St. Germain, fresh pineapple, lemon and berries, and Cucumber 16. Available through early 2018.
Raspberry Lemon Drop
This super-sweet concoction heats up the bitterest winter day with fresh-raspberry-infused Snow Leopard Vodka, a splash of simple syrup and fresh-squeezed lemon juice. Shaken over ice, the holiday offering is poured into a martini glass with a sugared rim, and served in Bayside’s cozy restaurant and lounge. Available through the winter season.
