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Winter has arrived in London, adorned with Christmas lights, and the city’s cocktail bars are unveiling their festive drink menus. These after-dinner cocktails can add charm to your holiday celebrations, whether enjoyed by a cozy fire or paired with traditional Christmas desserts.

Here are five delightful recipes from notable bars:

Roasted Chestnut Old-Fashioned from Archive & Myth

This hidden speakeasy has put a seasonal twist on the classic Old-Fashioned. Instead of sugar, they use chestnut liqueur and walnut bitters for a nutty flair.

Ingredients:

50ml (1.7oz) Compass Box Nectarosity (blended Scotch whiskey)
20ml (0.7oz) roasted chestnut liqueur
2 dashes aromatic bitters (black walnut preferred)
1 pinch of salt

Directions:

Stir with ice until chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass with a clove-studded orange peel.

The Nutcracker from Swift Borough

This cocktail is a luxurious take on the flip cocktail, featuring vintage port, hazelnut liqueur, and cognac, served with a whole egg for creaminess.

Ingredients:

1 whole egg
20ml (0.7oz) chestnut liqueur
30ml (1oz) port
50ml (1.7oz) Hennessy or cognac

Directions:

Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Dry shake (no ice) first.
Then shake with ice and single strain into a frozen glass. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.

Nougat & Vodka from Twice Shy

This winter favorite is reminiscent of eggnog and features a nougat-infused vodka.

Ingredients:

50ml (1.7oz) nougat-infused vodka
5ml (0.18oz) Disaronno amaretto liqueur
15ml (0.5oz) lemon juice
10ml (0.25oz) honey
15ml (0.5oz) egg white

Directions:

Build the cocktail in the shaker and dry shake.
Add ice and shake again. Double strain into a rocks glass over ice and garnish with grated nutmeg.

Suzette from Sofitel London St James

This cocktail, inspired by the classic French crepe, combines orange notes with whiskey for a festive drink.

Ingredients:

30ml (1oz) Singleton of Dufftown 12 year old whisky
15ml (0.5oz) Grand Marnier Cuvee Alexandre
10ml (0.25oz) Aperol
5ml (0.18oz) Discarded Sweet Cascara Vermouth
25ml (0.75oz) lemon juice
15ml (0.5oz) orange syrup

Directions:

Pour all ingredients into a shaker with ice.
Shake well and single strain over large ice cubes. Finish with an orange peel, squeezing the oil over the glass.

Ho, Ho, Hot Chocolate from Side Hustle, NoMad London

This warm, chocolaty treat is perfect for those who want a cozy drink post-dinner.

Ingredients:

15ml (0.5oz) Green Chartreuse
22ml (0.75oz) Fernet-Branca
150ml (5oz) hot chocolate base

Directions:

Pour the hot chocolate over the other ingredients, mix until dissolved, and strain the mixture through a fine strainer. Serve in a glass teacup or coffee mug.

By trying these recipes, you can elevate your holiday gatherings with flavors that celebrate the festive season. Enjoy your cocktails responsibly!