Not only do New Mexicans get the joy of truly experiencing all four seasons, but the Land of Enchantment really does enchant us with some unique holiday flavors. Everything from the anise in biscochitos to a hint of red chile can really bring on the cheer.
While there are many great examples of the creative flavors, holiday cocktails from the 505 can really take the fun to the next level. We compiled a list of five Albuquerque cocktails and one Santa Fe surprise from some of the locally loved distilleries, restaurants, and breweries that you just have to try. Read on to really get into the holiday “spirits”. Make sure to check out this handy Collection and plan your holiday sipping adventure.
The Snow Globe at Hollow Spirits
Hollow Spirits is known for fun and unique flavored cocktails as well as some next level eats, so it is no surprise that they are going all out for the holidays. This Snow Globe cocktail incorporates Hollow Spirits Lavender Vodka and vanilla Infused simple syrup with earl gray tea, and sweetened almond milk spheres garnished with a rosemary sprig ice sphere and edible glitter. Five stars for creativity alone!
Chile Ristra at Tractor Brewing Co.
Tractor Brewing Company might be well known for their beer and cider selection, but in recent years they have really jumped in to the cocktail game. This locally inspired cocktail embodies everything we love about this state into a fun holiday drink. The Chile Ristra contains orange liqueur, red chile powder, lime, agave nectar, chocolate, and tajin rim.
Hot Choccy at Safe House Distilling Co.
Safe House is a Downtown must see for concept alone. One of Albuquerque’s newer distilleries, the space encompanies the spirits of occuments past and truly leans in to the financial theme with spirits like the Lock Pick Gin and Vault Bourbon. If a warm winter cocktail sounds good, you’re going to want to try their Hot Choccy. The Hot Choccy is a fun take on the winter classic and blends together apple pie vodka with chocolate syrup, hot almond milk, non-vegan Orgeat foam, and cinnamon dust.
Berry Toasty at Left Turn Distillery
Left Turn is Albuquerque’s first distillery and is teamed up with Palmer’s Brewery and Cider House. They offer local favorites such as La Luz Vodka (red and green chile versions available!), Old Tom Gin, Pinon Rum, and Bourbon, as well as 6-8 beers on tap and several hard Cider choices. This holiday season, you can try the Berry Toasty which features Brother’s Old Tom Gin, Toasted Marshmallow syrup, house-made simple syrup, cranberry juice, and egg whites. If holiday cocktails mean marshmallows on everything, the holiday season should never end.
Spiced Cranberry Mule at M’tucci’s
While many visit M’tucci’s for the food and desserts, they also serve up some great cocktails. This Spiced Cranberry Mule is built in a copper mug for the true mule experience but adds holiday flare with Liquid Alchemist Spiced Apple Syrup, cranberry juice cocktail, lime, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Gossling’s Ginger Beer. Skip the cranberry sauce and go straight for the cranberry cocktails.
Apple Salted Caramel Hot Buttered “Rum” at Paloma Santa Fe
Paloma is a vibrant Mexican inspired kitchen and bar located in Santa Fe. Another example that great food and great cocktails can go hand in hand. This Apple Salted Caramel Hot Buttered Rum is sure to warm you up. The ingredients include salted caramel ice cream, apple puree, unsalted butter, and spices as well as Charanda Uruapan and a cinnamon stick garnish.
Before venturing out to try these fun cocktails, check location websites for events, rules, and reservation instructions. Locations tend to be far apart and reachable only by automobile, so be sure to secure a designated driver or hire a car service to indulge responsibly! And finally, many of these locations sell bottles of spirits that would make fantastic holiday gifts. Cheers, Yelpers!
