HOLIDAY SPIRITS: Five Holiday-Themed Cocktails You Have to Try

sip these local holiday libations from around the Valley

Natalie Derks

’Tis the season for ice-kissed infusions and elf-made elixirs! Whether you put the tree up the day after Halloween, or you consider yourself more of a Scrooge, one thing that most of us agree on is that there’s no time like the present to indulge yourself with a delicious cocktail. Because of this, we rounded up a list of five holiday-themed drinks that will have you feeling merry in no time. Trust us; regardless of what holiday you celebrate, there’s snow way you want to miss these spiked sensations!


Sex in the Snow

Contrary to what you might assume, this cocktail is not on the naughty list; it’s so nice, in fact, that our readers voted it the No. 1 “Best Local Holiday Drink” in our annual V1 “Best Of” poll! Available at Cowboy Jacks (1432 Front Porch Place, Altoona), this Santa-approved spirit consists of Trader Vic’s coconut rum, blue curaçao, piña colada mix, and pineapple juice, all topped with whipped cream and a cherry on top. Want to switch it up? Some of the other merry-and-bright options on their winter menu include a Peanut Butter White Russian and a Toasted S’mores White Russian, both of which are great ways to kickstart the holiday season.


Buttered Honey

From their famous old fashioneds to their mouthwatering Manhattans, Sheeley House Saloon (236 W River St., Chippewa Falls) is known for their amazing cocktails. So, it’s no surprise that they’re in the process of brainstorming a blizzard of wintry beverages! One cozy concoction that’s sure to bring the warmest smiles this holiday season is the Buttered Honey, a soothing combination of Alpine honey liqueur, warm butterscotch, hot water, and a cube of butter. A hot toddy with a twist, this warm honey- and caramel-flavored cocktail is the perfect drink to sip on after a long afternoon of ice-skating or sledding.


Figgy Pudding Martini

Need a break from holiday shopping?  Make your way over to River Jams (2940 109th St., Chippewa Falls) — their holiday menu drops right after Black Friday! One libation to look for is the Figgy Pudding Martini, a dessert cocktail consisting of dark rum, brandy, figgy syrup, half and half, bitters, and whipped topping with a fig. According to Sara Scott, the owner of River Jams, this super tasty cocktail is rich, sweet, and creamy with a dash of spice; and if you close your eyes, it also smells just like someone is baking a pie. 


Spiced Apple Jack Mule

When it comes to Infinity Beverages Winery and Distillery (3460 Mall Drive, Eau Claire), they always put out an assortment of brrrrilliant concoctions. If you need a recommendation, though, elf yourself to the Spiced Apple Jack Mule! A twist on the classic, this spiced sensation is handcrafted with Infinity’s Original Audacity Vodka, cinnamon, apple, lime, and ginger beer.  Looking for another festive option?  Infinity is serving up a wide array of hot drinks and mocktails, all of which are sure to perk up your winter.


Captain’s Nog: Stardate 101182.95

Bring on the nog!  If you’re on the hunt for a solid nightcap, this homemade aged eggnog will make its way to The Lakely (516 Galloway St., Eau Claire) within the next couple of weeks.  With hints of vanilla and sweet cream, this yuletide cocktail is made with a blend of cognac, bourbon, and rum, and then topped with fresh grated nutmeg. Curious about the name? It’s a reference to the date and time bartender Kaine O’Brien finished making the first batch!


That’s a wrap … almost! Of course, this list isn’t exhaustive of all the awesome holiday offerings in the area. Leinie Lodge (124 E Elm St., Chippewa Falls) and Northern Tap House (5020 Keystone Crossing, Eau Claire) both plan to roll out their seasonal beverages within the next couple of weeks, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. So, keep your eyes peeled for more holiday-themed libations at your favorite spots!