Cocktails and mocktails go simply fruity this holiday season
 Every holiday season the trend in party drinks seems to get more elaborate. This year simplicity is back, as party hosts spend their time socializing, not mixing drinks.
According to the LCBO’s Kelly Taylor, “Easy-to-make drinks with premium spirits…that are great tasting and beautifully garnished seems to be important to customers.”
Along the same lines, cocktails that can be made in large batches are returning to favour.
She adds that exotic flavours like Acai, Pomegranate, Asian Pear, Lychee and Kiwi Mango are very popular, as are premium spirits like Grey Goose, Level and Belvedere vodka. Also, celebrity endorsements and product placement are influencing buyers this year.
In addition, parties that focus on drinks and hors d’oeuvres, not big elaborate dinners, are growing in popularity according to Taylor. Check out some of the coolest cocktails and magificient mocktails that are bound to impress guests.
If you’d still prefer to let your guests’ taste buds guide them, there are a few loose rules to ensure your bar is well-stocked and party-ready.
Buying for a party
As a general rule, how much alcohol you’ll need depends on the number of people, how long the party will last and what type of party it is. The LCBO recommends that you plan for at least one drink per person per hour. If you’re planning to provide a variety of drinks, including beer, wine, cocktails and mocktails, you can use this handy party calculator to figure out what you’ll need.
The basic bar
You’ll need a variety of spirits to get the party started, including red and white wine, beer and a variety of mixers, condiments and garnishes. Depending on what your guests prefer, you’ll need a different quantity of each bar essential. Some basic recommended spirits include rum, vodka, gin, Canadian whisky, vermouth, brandy and some flavoured liqueurs.
For mixers, you’ll want to have a variety of juices on hand, plus cola, ginger ale, club soda and tonic water. You may want to offer both diet and regular versions for calorie conscious guests. Also have fun with condiments and garnishes. From olives and cocktail onions to fresh fruit, salt and pepper, Tabasco, sugar, candy canes and lemon wedges, there are numerous possibilities to add a festive touch to cocktails and mocktails. Finally, don’t forget the ice!
Equipment
Most of the essentials that you’ll need are already in your kitchen: a knife, cutting board, bottle and can opener, corkscrew, blender and ice bucket are among the essentials. However, you’ll also need a jigger or measuring glass, shaker and a strainer among your bar supplies. Finally, don’t ignore serving supplies such as napkins, stir sticks and a variety of glasses to match the style of the drinks you’ll be serving.
- Amanda Taccone
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