13 Drinks to Make the Relatives Think You’re the Classiest Host Ever

Hosting a holiday gathering with style can be as simple as serving the right drinks. These 13 drinks have all the festive charm and refined appeal to make any host look effortlessly classy. From bold classics to innovative mocktails, each recipe adds a touch of sophistication that’ll keep the compliments flowing. With these on your menu, your holiday gathering will have all the polished flair of a high-end event.

Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

Jenessa’s Cadillac Margarita

Two cadillac margaritas in front of a bowl of citrus fruit. — Jenessa’s Cadillac Margarita. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Jenessa’s Cadillac Margarita, made with premium tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, adds a touch of elegance to holiday drinks. Its smooth and tangy flavor stands out, making it a step above traditional cocktails and worthy of compliments. A salted rim adds the perfect finishing touch, letting guests appreciate its layered taste. Expect guests to be asking for refills.
Get the Recipe: Jenessa’s Cadillac Margarita

Classic Mint Julep Cocktail

A mint julep in a silver mint julep cup with sprigs of mint and a decanter of bourbon and other ingredients in the background. — Classic Mint Julep Cocktail. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

The Classic Mint Julep is a refreshing yet refined drink that can elevate any holiday gathering in just five minutes. Its blend of bourbon, mint, and simple syrup creates a smooth cocktail that feels festive and timeless. Served over crushed ice, it’s a drink that looks as good as it tastes, keeping guests impressed. This cocktail could quickly become the star of your gathering.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mint Julep Cocktail

Raspberry Mojito Cocktail

The Raspberry Mojito offers a vibrant and refreshing take on the classic mojito, perfect for creating a lively atmosphere. With fresh raspberries, mint, lime, and rum, it’s quick to prepare and brings a festive energy to any table. Its bright color and fruity flavor keep everyone happily engaged and relaxed. This is a cocktail that makes gatherings feel effortless and fun.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Mojito Cocktail

Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail

Two empress 1908 gin sours next to a bottle of purple gin. — Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

The Empress 1908 Gin Sour brings a striking visual and refined taste to your holiday table, perfect for impressing guests. Its vibrant purple hue and smooth gin flavor create a memorable cocktail that’s ready in just five minutes. This drink adds elegance to any moment, ensuring everyone feels special. With each sip, it brings a sense of sophistication to the celebration.
Get the Recipe: Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail

Blackberry Moscow Mule Mocktail

The Blackberry Moscow Mule Mocktail adds a festive and stylish touch to any gathering, perfect for creating a cheerful atmosphere. Combining ginger beer, lime, and fresh blackberries, it’s simple to make and full of holiday spirit. Its lively flavors keep guests smiling and relaxed, setting a comfortable mood. This mocktail is sure to charm everyone with its vibrant look and taste.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Moscow Mule Mocktail

Easy Black Russian Mocktail

The Easy Black Russian Mocktail has a bold taste that’s hard to forget, adding depth to any holiday setting. With coffee and vanilla flavors, it creates a rich and inviting drink without the alcohol, making it a thoughtful choice for everyone. Ready in minutes, this mocktail’s warmth fits right into the holiday spirit. Each sip brings a cozy energy that’s perfect for gathering together.
Get the Recipe: Easy Black Russian Mocktail

Non-Alcoholic Negroni

The Non-Alcoholic Negroni is a sophisticated option that shows holiday gatherings don’t need alcohol to feel special. With balanced bitter and citrus flavors, it’s an elegant drink that’s quick to prepare and feels right at home in any setting. Its polished presentation will have guests admiring its thoughtfulness and taste. Each sip is a classy addition to the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Non-Alcoholic Negroni

Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail

The Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail is a sparkling choice that brings celebration to the table in just five minutes. With champagne and tart pomegranate juice, it’s perfect for holiday toasts and adds a touch of class to any gathering. Its bubbly nature keeps the mood festive and lively throughout the night. Every pour of this drink brings an extra sparkle to the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail

Sangria Margarita

The Sangria Margarita is a bold fusion of two popular drinks, making it a unique addition to any holiday gathering. Combining the fruity flavors of sangria with the tang of a margarita, it’s ready in five minutes and keeps everyone sipping happily. This refreshing drink is designed to encourage conversation and celebration. It’s the kind of cocktail that lights up any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sangria Margarita

Fall Sangria with Apple Cider and Bourbon

A glass of red wine bourbon sangria with apple slices and cinnamon sticks sitting on a metal plate. — Fall Sangria with Apple Cider and Bourbon. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

This Fall Sangria with Apple Cider and Bourbon blends seasonal flavors with ease, making it a classy addition to any holiday spread. With red wine, bourbon, and apple cider, it’s a make-ahead drink that sets the tone for warm, festive gatherings. Its spices and fruit keep the atmosphere cozy and inviting. This sangria makes casual gatherings feel like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Fall Sangria with Apple Cider and Bourbon

Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

A glass of whiskey with oranges and a wooden stick. — Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The Smoked Old Fashioned adds depth and complexity to holiday gatherings, a drink for those who appreciate refined flavors. Combining bourbon, sugar, and bitters with a touch of smoke, it’s ready in ten minutes and brings an impressive, smoky aroma. The large ice cube adds visual appeal and elegance to each glass. With this cocktail, expect more than a few compliments.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is both energizing and sophisticated, a perfect cocktail to keep the evening going with style. Mixing vodka and espresso, this drink is ready in minutes and ideal for coffee lovers looking to elevate the holiday spirit. Its bold flavor adds a modern twist to the drink menu. For a night of cheer and conversation, this martini keeps the energy just right.
Get the Recipe: Espresso Martini

Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour

The Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour is a mocktail that brings a classic taste to the table, perfect for impressing family with its familiarity. The smooth blend of sweet and sour flavors adds a touch of nostalgia to any gathering, making it feel timeless. Simple to prepare, it’s a reliable drink that keeps everyone feeling at ease. Each sip reminds guests of holiday traditions and warm memories.
Get the Recipe: Non-Alcoholic Whiskey Sour