Shake Up the Season
Welcoming Guests with Seasonal Flair
As the days get shorter and the holidays approach, there’s no better way to welcome friends and family into your home than with a stunning, expertly crafted cocktail. While wine and beer are staples, a signature seasonal cocktail shows thoughtfulness and elevates the entire atmosphere of your gathering.
The best holiday cocktails are delicious, seasonally appropriate, and most importantly, easy to batch-prepare so you aren’t stuck mixing drinks all night long.
Here at Wine and Spirits Cellar in Maryville, TN, we specialize in stocking the premium spirits and unique mixers you need to impress your guests. We’ve selected three simple, yet elegant, recipes that use the seasonal flavors of November—spices, cranberries, and citrus—perfect for your Thanksgiving or “Friendsgiving” celebration.
Recipe 1: The Spiced Cranberry Whiskey Smash
This cocktail is a fantastic way to utilize the cranberry flavors of the season while showcasing the rich, warm notes of Tennessee whiskey or Kentucky bourbon—both great choices available right here in our Maryville cellar.
Why It Works for Hosting
It’s an easy crowd-pleaser and can be made in a large pitcher ahead of time. Whiskey’s complexity holds up beautifully against the tart cranberry and spice.
Ingredients (Per Drink)
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey (Find a great local Tennessee choice at our store!)
- 1 oz Cranberry Juice (100% juice, not cocktail)
- $1/2$ oz Fresh Lime Juice
- $1/2$ oz Maple Syrup or Cinnamon Syrup
- Garnish: Rosemary sprig and fresh cranberries
Instructions
- Combine the whiskey, cranberry juice, lime juice, and syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well until thoroughly chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig (lightly slap the rosemary to release its aroma) and a few floating cranberries.
- Pro Tip: For batching, combine all ingredients (minus the ice) in a large carafe. When guests arrive, simply pour over ice and garnish!
Recipe 2: The Harvest Mule (A Twist on the Classic)
The Moscow Mule is a reliable favorite, but the Harvest Mule substitutes vodka for spiced rum and adds a touch of apple cider, making it instantly autumnal. This is a lighter, bubbly option that works well before a big meal.
Why It Works for Hosting
It requires minimal shaking and is built directly in the glass, speeding up service. It’s light and highly refreshing.
Ingredients (Per Drink)
- $1.5$ oz Spiced Rum (Check our Cordials/Liqueurs section for great options)
- $1$ oz Quality Apple Cider
- $1/2$ oz Fresh Lime Juice
- Top with Ginger Beer (The spicier, the better)
- Garnish: Cinnamon stick and a slice of apple.
Instructions
- Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
- Add the spiced rum, apple cider, and lime juice.
- Top generously with ginger beer.
- Gently stir once to combine.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a delightful aroma.
Recipe 3: The Simple Citrus Gin & Tonic (Elevated)
Sometimes, the simplest drinks are the most sophisticated. By upgrading your standard Gin & Tonic with fresh seasonal citrus and a floral garnish, you elevate this classic into an elegant holiday offering.
Why It Works for Hosting
It’s a light, crisp, and high-quality drink that appeals to guests who prefer bright, clean flavors. Gin is a fantastic mixer and we have a wide selection of artisanal bottles.
Ingredients (Per Drink)
- 2 oz Premium Gin (Look for an American or floral variety)
- 3 oz High-Quality Tonic Water (The tonic makes a huge difference!)
- Garnish: 2-3 slices of fresh blood orange or clementine, and a sprig of thyme.
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass or highball glass with ice.
- Add the Gin and top with tonic water.
- Gently stir.
- Garnish generously with the seasonal citrus slices and thyme. The colors are gorgeous!
Stock Up and Impress in Maryville, TN
Ready to become the host everyone talks about? Before your next gathering, make a stop at Wine and Spirits Cellar right here in Maryville, TN. We have everything from the award-winning spirits and specialty mixers to the fresh citrus needed for these recipes. Our knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect bottles to ensure your holiday bar is fully stocked and ready for any guest.