Ingredients

To craft the perfect Drunk Reindeer cocktail, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 oz Cranberry Juice: This provides the tart, fruity base that gives the cocktail its signature holiday flavor and vibrant red color.
1 oz Vodka: A classic spirit that brings a crisp, clean kick to the drink.
1 oz Orange Liqueur: Options like Cointreau or Triple Sec add a citrusy sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberry juice.
1 oz Ginger Beer: This spicy and effervescent addition adds depth and complexity to the cocktail.
½ oz Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavors and adds a tangy twist.
½ oz Simple Syrup (optional): For those who prefer a slightly sweeter cocktail, this can be adjusted to taste.
Ice Cubes: Essential for chilling the drink and ensuring a refreshing experience.
Fresh Rosemary Sprigs: A fragrant garnish that resembles reindeer antlers and enhances the drink’s presentation.
Cranberries (fresh or sugared): These serve as a festive garnish and can be used to float on top of the drink or skewer on a cocktail pick.

Instructions

Preparation

Step 1: Begin by chilling your serving glasses. This can be done by placing the glasses in the freezer for a few minutes or filling them with ice water while you prepare the cocktail. A chilled glass ensures your drink stays cold longer and adds a touch of professionalism to your presentation.

Step 2: In a cocktail shaker, combine the cranberry juice, vodka, orange liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup if you’re using it. The simple syrup is optional, so adjust the sweetness based on your preference. Add a generous handful of ice cubes to the shaker to ensure the ingredients are properly chilled and diluted to the right balance.

Step 3: Secure the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. The goal is to mix the ingredients thoroughly while also chilling them to create a smooth and refreshing cocktail.

Step 4: Remove your chilled glasses from the freezer or empty the ice water. Strain the cocktail mixture into the prepared glass, using a fine-mesh strainer if you want to remove any pulp or ice shards for a smoother texture.

Step 5: Top the cocktail with ginger beer. The effervescence of ginger beer not only adds a delightful fizz but also complements the tart cranberry and citrusy orange flavors with its spicy undertones. Gently stir the mixture to combine, being careful not to disrupt the carbonation too much.

Step 6: Garnish your Drunk Reindeer cocktail with a sprig of fresh rosemary and a few cranberries. For a festive flair, you can sugar the cranberries by lightly wetting them and rolling them in granulated sugar. Arrange the garnishes creatively to make the drink visually appealing and holiday-ready.

Notes

For the best results, always use freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled lime juice, as the latter can taste artificial and detract from the cocktail’s freshness. If you plan to serve this drink at a large party, you can pre-mix the cranberry juice, vodka, orange liqueur, and lime juice in a pitcher and store it in the refrigerator. Add the ginger beer and ice just before serving to preserve the carbonation. Adjust the sweetness and tartness to suit your crowd’s preferences by experimenting with the amount of simple syrup.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 180
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 10mg
Protein: 0g