7 New Year’s Eve Cocktails to Ring in 2020

Sheela Prakash
Sheela PrakashSenior Contributing Food Editor
Sheela is the Senior Contributing Food Editor at Kitchn and the author of Mediterranean Every Day: Simple, Inspired Recipes for Feel-Good Food. She received her master's degree from the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Italy and is also a Registered Dietitian.
updated Dec 20, 2019
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Credit: Leela Cyd

New Year’s Eve is just a couple of weeks away. You might have given some thought to what snacks you’ll want on hand as everyone waits for the ball to drop, but what about drinks? This year we’re ringing in a whole new decade, meaning you may want something a little more special than beer and sparkling wine. Consider kicking the night off with an elegant cocktail. Here are seven of our favorites to help make the night feel extra special.

1. Sparkling Midnight Thyme Rosé

Sparkling wine is delicious as is, but it’s also easy to jazz up with a few simple additions — and this recipe is proof. Fresh thyme lends earthy, grounding notes, and a touch of rose water gives a floral effervescence to rosé bubbles.

Get the recipe: Sparkling Midnight Thyme Rosé

Credit: Lauren Volo

2. A Classic Martini

For the traditionalist, it’s hard to go wrong with a classic martini. If you’re unsure how to make a great one, this recipe is sure to set you up for success.

Get the recipe: How to Make a Classic Martini

3. Cranberry & St. Germain Pitcher Sparkler

St. Germain elderflower liqueur makes a sweet, floral addition to this cranberry juice, vodka, and club soda cocktail. Make it in bulk and guests can help themselves.

Get the recipe: Cranberry & St. Germain Pitcher Sparkler

4. The Boulevardier

This warming winter cousin to the Negroni is the ultimate grown-up drink. Instead of gin, the bitter Campari in this drink is tempered by sweet bourbon for something that’s deeper in flavor and more warming.

Get the recipe: The Boulevardier

Credit: Tara Donne

5. Arnaud’s French 75

Sipping a French 75 always feels fancy, which is to say it’s most definitely the right choice on New Year’s Eve. While it can be made with either gin or cognac, this version opts for the latter.

Get the recipe: Arnaud’s French 75

Credit: Kristin Teig

6. Festive Cranberry Fizz

What’s great about this recipe is that it can easily be made with or without alcohol. Leave the punch bowl booze-free so all your guests can enjoy a glass, then leave a bottle of gin on the side so imbibers can add a splash.

Get the recipe: Festive Cranberry Fizz

Credit: Joe Lingeman

7. Slow Cooker Mulled Wine

This time of year, something that will warm you up from the cold will never be turned down. This mulled wine can hang out in the slow cooker all night and will also perfume your entire home.

Get the recipe: How to Make Slow Cooker Mulled Wine