Mulled wine, hot buttered rum, eggnog and… martinis?

A fruity or spicy cocktail can be just as festive as all of the other traditional drinks we're used to, and who can say no to a bit of glamour?

Dublin's Westin Hotel have just launched their Mint Bar festive drinks menu – with all cocktails available until Jan 6 for €11 each – and to celebrate, head mixologist Michael Sammon has shared some DIY recipes with us.

These are simple to make at home – the trouble is deciding which one to start with….

Candy Cane Martini

Ingredients

  • 40ml Absolut Vodka
  • 15ml Crème de Cacao (white)
  • 10 strawberries, muddled
  • 10ml simple syrup
  • 20ml cranberry juice

For rim of glass

1 or 2 candy canes, crushed into fine pieces

Method

  1. Place crushed candy canes on a plate, and coat rim of a 7oz martini glass in the candy by wetting the rim, holding glass by the stem and rotating it on the plate.
  2. Place all other ingredients in cocktail shaker, shake and double strain
  3. Pour into glass and serve

 

Christmas Cake Martini

Method

  • 30ml Martell Cognac
  • 15ml cherry brandy
  • 15ml cinnamon schnapps
  •  10ml almond syrup
  •  20ml cranberry juice

Method

  1. Place all ingredients in cocktail shaker, shake and double strain
  2. Serve in a 7oz Martini glass with chocolate covered cherries