Cheers to the Season: 4 Holiday Cocktail Recipes from Local Bartenders

Each year, Indianapolis is alive with holiday pop-ups for the season. Whether you’re sipping from a dome along Geist reservoir, enjoying the view of lights from a rooftop, or cozied up at home with friends and loved ones, these cocktails are sure to be toastworthy.

Coconut Current Clancy’s Hospitality

A toasty holiday cocktail requires just a bit of at-home mixology, with a fun warm result. With two types of rum and a delectable coconut cream, this recipe balances dark and light to last the long nights. You can find bartender Claire McGuinness’ coconut creation at both Grindstone Public House and Grindstone on the Monon. For those making it at home, the honey and cinnamon syrup and coconut cream also pair well with coffee for a cozy coconut mielle.

FIND THE RECIPE HERE

Smoke Show Huse Culinary

This smokey sweet bourbon citrus cocktail is currently on the menu at HC Tavern. Bartenders Maia McIntosh and Lauren Mull collaborated to create this warming drink with a bit of flare. There are a few different methods for adding smoke to cocktails; this recipe uses a lid smoker that’s easy to get as an at-home mixology kit. The spectacle of the smoke peeling from the glass makes for an excellent party trick.

FIND THE RECIPE HERE

Sugar Plum Fairy Provision

From lead bartender Sarah Brown, Provision is serving up this mix of fruit and spice that will dance in your head all season long. Elite home bartenders will have a bit of a shopping list in store, or enjoy the industrial-meets-fine-dining atmosphere of Provision for a sample of the seasonal menu from the experts.

FIND THE RECIPE HERE

Christmas In Hawaii Sahm’s Hospitality Group

The team at Sahm’s has whipped up a gorgeous combination of island spirits and christmas flavors for this cocktail. Channel your inner Santa in sunglasses and sing Mele Kalikimaka as you mix up this blend of whiskey, cranberry, and ginger beer.

FIND THE RECIPE HERE