The festive season is well and truly upon us, and amidst the Christmas nights out and long-awaited catch ups with friends and family, there are some serious cocktails to be devoured. But we’re not just talking about your typical run-of-the-mill Martinis and oh-so-obvious Cosmos. While standard cocktail fare is delish, save it for the other 11 months of the year. The festive season demands some festive spirits to match, so here are four of Glasgow’s best not-so-ordinary cocktails to bring a little Christmas cheer into your life.
The Pear, Ginger and Raspberry Mule at SoHo
SoHo, Miller Street
Not only is SoHo one of Glasgow’s unsung heroes in terms of food but their lovely Pear, Ginger and Raspberry Mule shows they also know how to make a damn fine cocktail. Made with Absolut Pears Vodka, Chambord Raspberry liqueur, ginger beer, fresh lime and a dash of Angostura bitters, this nimble little drink is a great accompaniment to SoHo’s fantastic Italian cuisine. Served in a cute little jar, it’s a cocktail you'll want to sample repeatedly.
SoHo, 84 Miller Street
The Coconut and Chilli Daiquiri at Bar Soba
Bar Soba, Merchant City
Think it sounds like a weird combination? Well we did too until we had a glass or two and felt our taste buds exploding. The finest ingredients, such as Koko Kanu coconut rum, fresh lime and homemade lychee syrup, are the foundation for this yummy cocktail. Not only is it the perfect accompaniment to Bar Soba’s delicious Pan Asian menu but the lemongrass and chilli sugar rim gives just enough kick to keep you warm during cold, winter nights.
Bar Soba Merchant City, 79 Albion Street
The Star of David at Booly Mardy's
Mark Tracey
With a freshly launched brand spanking new drinks menu, Booly Mardy’s certainly knows how to concoct some winter warmers that will leave you merry. The Star of David is a festive delight fit for those who need a Christmas treat with a harder edge. A mix of Haig Club single grain whisky, Briottet Crème de Figue and Pedro Ximenez Sherry make this a cocktail that’s not for the faint hearted. It’s still top of our Christmas list though.
Booly Mardy’s, 28 Vinicombe Street
The Ginger and Honey Cosmo at Oregano & The Eagle Lodge
Kirsty Fraser
Even if you don’t live near Oregano & The Eagle Lodge, its warm, friendly atmosphere and great selection of food and drinks make it worth a trip. It doesn't hurt that their range of winter cocktails is worthy of repeat custom. The Ginger and Honey Cosmo blends fresh ginger, fresh lime, a dash of honey, a glug of Ketel One Vodka, Cointreau and cranberry juice. It’s served in a Martini glass and comes complete with its very own candy cane garnish. Not even Santa could say no.
Oregano & The Eagle Lodge, 2 Hilton Road, Bishopbriggs
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