Cocktail Recipe: Stars & Stripes Sleigh Ride
The “Stars & Stripes Sleigh Ride” brings the charm of a classic Christmas cocktail together with a patriotic twist. The crisp, bold flavor of rye whiskey pairs beautifully with the cooling sensation of mint and the tartness of cranberry juice, creating a drink that’s as refreshing as it is festive. The sparkling finish from the club soda and the sugar-rimmed glass adds a touch of holiday cheer, while the mint and cranberries create a visual representation of the red, white, and blue.
Perfect for your holiday gatherings or as a toast to the season, “Stars & Stripes Sleigh Ride” is a patriotic way to celebrate Christmas with friends and family. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or toasting to the New Year, this cocktail embodies everything we love about the holidays: patriotism, unity, and good times.
Stars & Stripes Sleigh Ride
Ingredients
- 2 oz rye whiskey (for a bold, American spirit)
- 0.5 oz white crème de menthe (for a festive minty kick)
- 0.5 oz cranberry juice (to represent the red, white, and blue)
- 0.25 oz simple syrup (to balance out the flavors)
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- 0.5 oz club soda (for a little fizz)
Garnish
- Fresh mint sprig (a nod to wintery holidays)
- Red and blue sugar crystals (to create a patriotic rim)
- A few cranberries (symbolizing the American spirit)
Instructions
- Begin by rimming your glass with red and blue sugar crystals to bring that American flair to the drink.
- In a shaker, combine the rye whiskey, crème de menthe, cranberry juice, simple syrup, and bitters.
- Add ice and shake well until chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice.
- Top with a splash of club soda for a bit of effervescence.
- Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and drop a few cranberries into the drink to represent the American colors.
