New Year’s Eve is the ultimate celebration—a night to raise a glass to new beginnings and toast to the year ahead. Whether you’re a mixology enthusiast or just looking to impress your guests, the right cocktails can elevate your evening. From classic cocktails to creative sips that sparkle with a touch of bubbly, this list of 9 must-make drinks will have everyone in the party spirit. Whether it’s a big bash or an intimate gathering, these recipes will help you shake up some magic and make your NYE unforgettable!
French 75
Upgrade your New Year’s toast with the French 75, a cocktail that’s equal parts elegance and sparkle. Gin and Champagne come together with fresh lemon juice and a touch of simple syrup for a drink that’s crisp, refreshing, and undeniably festive. It’s the perfect way to add a little extra glamour to your midnight cheers.
French 95
Meet the French 95—the bolder, bourbon-loving sibling of the French 75. This twist on the sparkling classic swaps gin for bourbon, giving it a rich depth while still keeping that signature effervescence. Zesty lemon juice and simple syrup bring balance, and a splash of Champagne ties it all together.
Espresso Martini
The espresso martini is the life of the party, combining bold coffee flavor with a boozy kick. Our version takes it to the next level by using egg white to create an extra frothy top, giving it an irresistibly creamy finish. Whether you’re winding down after dinner or waking everyone up for a New Year’s celebration, this elevated twist on the classic espresso martini is guaranteed to impress—bold, balanced, and beautifully foamy!
Vieux Carré
The Vieux Carré is a sophisticated cocktail with roots as rich as its flavor. This classic mix of whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and bitters delivers a perfectly layered sip that’s slightly sweet yet wonderfully balanced. With herbal notes, a touch of spice, and a smooth finish, it’s a cocktail that feels both timeless and indulgent.
Classic Dirty Martini
The Dirty Martini is the perfect cocktail for celebrating with simplicity and style. Its briny olive juice and clean base of gin or vodka make it refreshingly bold, while the modest ingredient list lets your chosen spirit shine. Ideal for toasting to special moments or elevating an evening, this classic drink proves that sometimes, the best celebrations are the simplest ones.
Spiced Dark Cherry Old Fashioned
If you’re an avid old fashioned drinker but are looking to take it up a notch, this Spiced Dark Cherry Old Fashioned is the perfect way to do so. The flavor combination of spiced whiskey, dark cherries, and bitters creates a rich, smooth drink to sip on. This is a great way to impress your guests that are whiskey fans!
Hanky Panky
Raise a glass to history with this classic cocktail, first crafted in 1903 by the legendary Ada ‘Coley’ Coleman, the only female head bartender in the history of the Savoy Hotel. Known for its bold balance of sweet vermouth and the bittersweet kick of Fernet-Branca, this drink is as complex as it is timeless. If you prefer a softer touch, a splash of fresh orange juice can smooth out the intensity, making it the perfect addition to your New Year’s Eve celebration.
Tailspin
The Tailspin is a cocktail that takes a daring dive into vermouth, Green Chartreuse, and a dash of Campari, creating a complex and captivating drink perfect for any occasion. Though its origins remain a bit mysterious, this recipe has stood the test of time. This cocktail is sure to make your new year spin in the right direction.
New York Sour
The New York Sour is a classic with a twist, featuring a smooth whiskey base topped with a bold red wine float. Originally called the Continental Sour, this cocktail became a staple in New York City, earning its current name. Whether you add egg white for creaminess or keep it simple, this cocktail is versatile — just use whatever dry red wine you have on hand and enjoy the mix of rich flavors.
