Winter Wonderland Fizz
A delightful winter cocktail that combines the warmth of bourbon and cognac with the festive flavors of cherry liqueur and ginger beer. This effervescent drink is perfect for holiday gatherings, bringing a touch of cheer to your celebrations..
Learn how to make the perfect Winter Wonderland Fizz cocktail recipe at home. This festive highball features bourbon as the base spirit and is served in a highball glass. Ideal for entertaining groups, this drink warms you through the cold winter months. Get the complete ingredient list, step-by-step mixing instructions, and expert tips.
Winter Wonderland Fizz Ingredients
- 🥃Bourbon(1 oz)
- 🍷Cognac(1 oz)
- 🍒Cherry liqueur(1/2 oz)
- 🍊Dry orange curaçao(1/2 oz)
- 🍬Simple syrup(1/2 oz)
- 🍋Fresh lemon juice(1/2 oz)
- 🍺Ginger beer(to top)
- 🍊Fresh orange juice(1 oz)
Mixing Instructions for Winter Wonderland Fizz
- 1.In a shaker, combine the bourbon, cognac, cherry liqueur, dry orange curaçao, simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and fresh orange juice.
- 2.Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.
- 3.Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
- 4.Top with ginger beer and gently stir to combine.
- 5.Garnish with a twist of orange peel.
Why These Ingredients For The Perfect Winter Wonderland Fizz?
Bourbon
Bourbon serves as the backbone of the Winter Wonderland Fizz, providing a rich, warm foundation that complements the cocktail's festive theme. We recommend using a bourbon that leans towards the spicier side, such as Bulleit Bourbon or Elijah Craig Small Batch, both of which have a higher proof (around 45% ABV) that adds depth and character. The caramel and vanilla notes inherent in bourbon harmonize beautifully with the other ingredients, while its slight sweetness balances the tartness of the lemon juice and the brightness of the orange juice. If you prefer a smoother profile, you might opt for a wheated bourbon like Maker's Mark, which will yield a softer mouthfeel but may lack some of the spiciness that enhances the overall complexity of the drink. When measuring, be precise with the 1 oz pour to ensure the bourbon's presence is felt without overpowering the other flavors.
Cognac
Cognac adds a layer of sophistication and depth to the Winter Wonderland Fizz, contributing fruity and floral notes that elevate the cocktail's profile. A good choice would be a VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) cognac, such as Rémy Martin VSOP or Hennessy VSOP, which offers a balance of oakiness and fruitiness. The inclusion of cognac not only enhances the drink's complexity but also provides a smooth texture that contrasts nicely with the effervescence of the ginger beer. If you're looking for alternatives, you could use an aged brandy, which will provide a similar flavor profile but may lack the refined nuances of a quality cognac. When measuring, stick to the 1 oz to maintain the intended balance of flavors.
Cherry Liqueur
Cherry liqueur introduces a delightful sweetness and a hint of tartness that brightens the Winter Wonderland Fizz. We recommend using a high-quality cherry liqueur like Luxardo Maraschino or Cherry Heering, both of which offer rich cherry flavors without being overly syrupy. This ingredient not only adds a pop of color but also complements the bourbon and cognac, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. If you want to experiment, you could substitute with a raspberry liqueur for a different berry profile, but this will shift the drink's character slightly. When measuring, the 1/2 oz pour is crucial to ensure the cherry flavor is present but not overwhelming.
Fresh Lemon Juice
Fresh lemon juice is essential for balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients in the Winter Wonderland Fizz. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the bourbon and cognac, providing a refreshing contrast that keeps the cocktail lively. Always opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled, as the latter can have a muted flavor and added preservatives. If you find fresh lemons are not available, you could use a high-quality bottled lemon juice, but be aware that it may alter the drink's freshness. The 1/2 oz measurement is key to achieving the right level of acidity without overpowering the other flavors.
Alternative Ingredients
- •Rye whiskey instead of bourbon
- •Peach liqueur instead of cherry liqueur
- •Club soda instead of ginger beer
A Winter Wonderland Fizz is best served with
🍽️ This cocktail pairs beautifully with roasted meats, spiced nuts, or a charcuterie board, as the warmth of the bourbon and cognac complements savory flavors and the sweetness of the cherry liqueur enhances the richness of the dishes.
""I love a cocktail that warms me up from the inside out, especially when it's colder than a polar bear's toenails outside!""
