A Cocktail for Every Type of New Year’s Eve

A new year and a fresh new start is something to which we always raise our glasses. The celebration might still look a little different this year. Whether you choose to blend your own signature elixir, make simple cocktails, or break out the cocoa, here’s a way to acknowledge the turn of the year no matter how you decide to toast.

1. By the Fire

Three ingredients plus a twist: That’s the spirit for 2022. This maple-bourbon smash combines smoky maple syrup with bourbon and lemon juice. (If you haven’t yet tried that combo in a bourbon sour, let today be the day!) It’s a gorgeous thing to tuck into by the fire, on the porch all wrapped up looking out at the falling snow, or even if you’ve squeezed into sequins and are throwing a fake party for yourself and your family!

2. Après Ski

Need a little help making it to midnight? Right there with you. Piping-hot Irish coffee to the rescue. When executed correctly, it can be silky and gloriously elegant. The proper recipe calls for Irish whiskey, plenty of good whipped cream, and a desire to slow down and sip in a meditative fashion. (The fireplace would fit the bill for this one, too!)

3. Tiny Cocktail Party

If you’re having a gathering of friends, may we suggest a take-a-deep-breath-this-year-is-almost-over batched drink? A pitcher cocktail is easy and will keep you from tearing your hair out as the new year begins. A sparkling applejack cocktail nods both to the season and to the glorious event.

4. Virtual Toast

Yes, yes, you could *just* do sips of whatever is cold in the fridge or out on the counter. Wine is lovely no matter the occasion. But French 75 packs a kick of gin, a hit of bright lemon juice, and a floral aroma into a pretty Champagne flute or coupe. Do it up one tiny notch, perhaps.

5. Pretend It’s Tropical Out!

If it’s just ridiculously hard to even take a brisk walk outside where you are, consider putting The Beach Boys or Desmond Dekker on the hi-fi, breaking out your best tropical shirt, and making Unkle’s Punch. The recipe is as simple as making a quick dash to a liquor store (or ordering the bottles delivered) and giving everything a good shake in a shaker. This recipe hails from Waikiki!

6. Zero Proof

For whatever reason, you want to ease into the new year with a clear head. Enter zero-proof cocktails like this stunning ruby spice highball. Cubes of fresh cranberry and pomegranate juices melt gently into chilled chai and sparkling cider. It’s bright, it’ll wake you up enough to get you to midnight, and in its own way, it’ll give you the clarity you need to greet 2022. Happy new year!