The month of December calls for a special celebration – time to celebrate what the past year held, and look forward to the newness that 2026 will bring. It’s also the perfect time to gather with friends and family, and sip on something delicious. The Magic City is overflowing with creativity behind the bar. From cozy, fireside sippers to bold creations, these seven Birmingham cocktails capture the spirit of the season beautifully.

Fernata de Leche, El Royale

Rich, aromatic, and decadent, the Fernata de Leche blends Fernet Branca and Licor 43 with spiced cream for a dessert-like holiday beverage. It’s a comforting yet grown-up cocktail, perfect for a winter night.

Jolly Jungle Nog, Tucana Tiki Bar

Described as a pineapple upside-down cake in a glass, this playful nog layers Planteray pineapple rum, cognac, amontillado sherry, cherry, and egg custard. Served in a vintage punch mug, this nog is festive, nostalgic, and unapologetically fun.

Frost & Pine, Lapeer Steak & Seafood

Created by Beverage Director Richard Ramirez, Frost & Pine balances refreshing brightness with wintery warmth. Torched rosemary adds a smoky aroma and a bit of flair, while the cocktail’s soft green hue makes it feel right at home among holiday decorations.

Not My Gumdrop Buttons, Bayonet

If cookies and milk by the fire could be a cocktail, this would be it. Inspired by that classic pairing but completely dairy-free and gluten-free, the drink combines oat-infused Hayman’s gin, gingerbread syrup, Domaine Canton, and lemon, finished with a housemade snickerdoodle garnish.

Holiday Mule, Adios

Jose Medina Camancho’s seasonal spin on a classic mule brings together vodka, cranberry, hibiscus, rosemary, and ginger beer. It’s crisp, lightly tart, and herbaceous—an easy-drinking option that still feels perfectly festive.

Lil Saint Nick, The Louis Bar

This dirty chai espresso martini is equal parts cozy and indulgent, and comes from our friends at The Louis Bar inside of The Pizitz. With warming spice layered over rich coffee notes, it’s the kind of cocktail that feels tailor-made for a late night out with friends.

Roselle Tea, Juniper

A warm, wintry toddy that leans bright rather than heavy, Roselle Tea features tart hibiscus balanced with rose and cinnamon. It’s soothing, aromatic, and ideal for warming up on a chilly December night.