Amber Dias rings in the festive season with cocktails that celebrate quintessential desi flavours.

‘Tis the season for vibrant colours, tantalising aromas, and joyous gatherings. It’s a time when traditions meet modernity, and our tables are laden with food and drinks that are both familiar and refreshingly new. A trend that’s reflected in the choice of cocktails for holiday bashes.

Quintessential Indian flavours like cardamom, saffron, tamarind and rose have been finding their way into the drinks realm for some time now, giving classic cocktails a fun twist and elevating the experience. They invite a fusion of rich aromas and bold tastes to every toast. From intimate gatherings to grand soirees, these cocktails bring an exotic flair, making every sip a celebration of culture, flavour and festivity.

A Matter Of Flavour

Classic cocktails are classics for a reason; however, playing with flavours, especially infusing them with notes that are so familiar, creates a symphony of tastes that’s both nostalgic and innovative, bringing depth and warmth to every sip. Iconic spices like cardamom, saffron and cinnamon, along with refreshing notes of mint, basil and tamarind, lend an exotic edge to traditional cocktails, transforming them into sensory experiences. Ingredients like mango, coconut, rose and even chai infuse cocktails with tropical sweetness, floral hints and complex aromas. Each of these flavours not only adds vibrancy, but also complements the essence of familiar spirits, allowing classic drinks to be reimagined with a unique cultural twist.

Cocktails For The Season

Masala Chai Old Fashioned

Two iconic beverages come together for a unique take on a classic cocktail. It blends the warmth and comfort of your daily cuppa, with strong notes of cardamom, cinnamon and ginger with a heady whisky base. It’s a surefire winner with tea and whisky lovers.

What you need: 60 ml bourbon or rye whisky, 10 ml masala chai syrup, an orange peel for garnish and ice.

Tamarind Ginger Margarita

India meets Mexico in this tongue-tingling cocktail that will delight your taste buds. The tamarind and lemon juice create a sour (in the best ways) base, while the orange liqueur and ginger syrup offer some sweet relief and perfectly balance out the flavours in this drink.

What you need: 60 ml tamarind concentrate, 45 ml tequila, 15 ml orange liqueur, 15 ml lemon juice, 25 ml ginger syrup, ice and a lime wedge to garnish.

Mango Lassi Martini

For those who appreciate the creamy richness of lassi, the Mango Lassi Martini offers a contemporary cocktail that’s rich, smooth, and full of vibrant tropical flavour. The sweetness of mango combined with the tartness of yogurt and a splash of vodka is ideal for bringing a fusion of traditional and modern elements to the table.

What you need: 45 ml vodka, 30 ml mango puree, 15 ml Greek yogurt or coconut cream, 10 ml honey or sugar syrup, a pinch of cardamom powder and ice.

Rose & Pomegranate Sangria

Celebrations are made for sharing, and there’s no better way to entertain guests than with a pitcher of Rose & Pomegranate Sangria. Rosewater, commonly used in desserts, infuses this cocktail with a floral fragrance, while the pomegranate adds a vibrant pop of colour and flavour.

What you need: 750 ml rosé wine, 100 ml pomegranate juice, 15 ml rosewater, 1 orange – sliced, 1 apple – cubed, fresh pomegranate arils, fresh mint for garnish and ice.

Coconut & Curry Leaf Vodka Smash

This cocktail pays homage to South Indian flavours by incorporating coconut and curry leaves for an exotic twist. Earthy and aromatic, this cocktail adds an adventurous, bold dimension to any celebration.

What you need: 45 ml vodka, 15 ml coconut water, 10 ml lime juice, fresh curry leaves, fresh coconut slices for garnish and ice.

All Dressed Up

Here are a few ideas to dress up your cocktails…

• Opt for gold-rimmed or jewel-toned glassware.
• Use traditional serve ware like brass or copper tumblers.
• Float colourful fruits like pomegranate arils, fresh figs, or orange slices in your cocktails.
• Top off cocktails with edible gold or silver dust for a shimmery finish.
• Rim glasses with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon powder, and ground cardamom.

Spiced Orange Whiskey Sour

This tangy cocktail incorporates fresh orange juice and a hint of spices like cinnamon and clove to create a warm, comforting drink that fits right into the festive atmosphere.

What you need: 45 ml whisky, 30 ml fresh orange juice, 15 ml lemon juice, 10 ml honey or simple syrup, a pinch of cinnamon and clove powder, ice and an orange slice and cinnamon stick for garnish.

A Toast To The Season

Whether it’s the warmth of cardamom and cinnamon, the tropical sweetness of mango and coconut, or the floral allure of rose and saffron, these ingredients add depth and sophistication to classic cocktails. They offer guests an exciting fusion of tradition and innovation, paying tribute to the festive spirit while creating a memorable experience.