In this infographic we share 10 Christmas drinks from around the world.

Here’s what makes the list:

  • Italy – Bombardino
  • Mexico – Ponche Navideño
  • Ireland – Irish coffee
  • United States – Egg Nog
  • Puerto Rico – Coquito
  • Germany – Glühwein
  • Bulgaria – Greyano Vino
  • Jamaica – Sorrel Punch
  • Cuba – Aliñado
  • Chile – Cola de Mono

Check out the infographic for more detail.

 

Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and, of course, delicious food and drinks. While many of us have our favorite holiday beverages, there’s a whole world of Christmas drinks waiting to be discovered.

In this blog post, we’ll take a journey around the globe and explore 10 delightful Christmas drinks from various countries. From creamy concoctions to spiced delights, these festive beverages are sure to add a touch of international flair to your holiday season.

Italy – Bombardino

Our first stop on this worldwide Christmas drink tour is Italy, where the Bombardino takes center stage during the holiday season. This warm and comforting drink is a favorite in the Italian Alps, particularly in the regions of Trentino and Alto Adige.

Ingredients:

  • 1 part Vov (an Italian egg-based liqueur)
  • 1 part Brandy
  • Whipped cream
  • Cinnamon powder (for garnish)

Preparation:

  • In a heatproof glass, combine the Vov and brandy.
  • Gently heat the mixture without boiling.
  • Once warm, top it with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
  • Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon powder on top for an extra festive touch.

The Bombardino is a creamy, indulgent drink that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for sipping by the fire after a day on the slopes.

Mexico – Ponche Navideño

In Mexico, Christmas is celebrated with a unique and fruity drink called Ponche Navideño. This warm punch is a beloved tradition during the holiday season and is often enjoyed with family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 4 quarts of water
  • 10 tejocotes (a type of Mexican hawthorn fruit)
  • 2 guavas, sliced
  • 2 apples, sliced
  • 1 pear, sliced
  • 1 piloncillo cone (unrefined sugar)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 6 cloves
  • 1 cup of dried hibiscus flowers
  • 1 cup of prunes
  • 1 cup of raisins
  • 1 cup of tamarind pods

Preparation:

  • In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
  • Add the tejocotes, guavas, apples, pear, piloncillo, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
  • Simmer for about 20 minutes until the fruits are tender.
  • Add the hibiscus flowers, prunes, raisins, and tamarind pods.
  • Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
  • Serve hot in mugs, ensuring each serving has a mix of fruits and liquid.

Ponche Navideño is a vibrant and flavorful drink that captures the essence of Mexican Christmas celebrations. The combination of fruits and spices creates a delightful, warming beverage.

Ireland – Irish Coffee

Irish Coffee is a classic Christmas drink that has gained popularity worldwide. Originating in Ireland, this concoction combines the richness of coffee with the warmth of Irish whiskey and a dollop of whipped cream.

Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ oz Irish whiskey
  • 6 oz hot brewed coffee
  • 1 oz sugar (optional)
  • Heavy cream (lightly whipped)

Preparation:

  • Preheat a glass mug by filling it with hot water, then empty it.
  • Add the hot coffee and Irish whiskey to the preheated mug.
  • Stir in sugar to taste, if desired.
  • Gently float a layer of lightly whipped heavy cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.

Irish Coffee is a timeless and invigorating Christmas beverage that combines the comfort of coffee with the spirited kick of whiskey, making it an excellent choice for cold winter evenings.

United States – Egg Nog

Egg Nog is an iconic American Christmas drink that has been cherished for generations. This creamy concoction, made with eggs, milk, sugar, and a touch of nutmeg, is a holiday staple.

Ingredients:

  • 6 large egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup bourbon (optional)
  • 1/4 cup dark rum (optional)
  • Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
  • Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)

Preparation:

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until well combined and slightly thickened.
  • In a saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, and ground nutmeg over medium heat until it begins to steam.
  • Slowly whisk the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture.
  • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 170°F or 77°C).
  • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  • If desired, add the bourbon and rum.
  • Refrigerate until well chilled.
  • Serve in glasses, garnished with ground cinnamon and freshly grated nutmeg.

Egg Nog is a creamy, comforting, and slightly indulgent treat that brings a taste of nostalgia to Christmas gatherings in the United States.

Puerto Rico – Coquito

In Puerto Rico, Christmas celebrations wouldn’t be complete without a glass of Coquito. Often referred to as “Puerto Rican Eggnog,” this creamy coconut and rum-based drink is a beloved tradition on the island.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 1/2 cups white rum (adjust to taste)
  • Cinnamon sticks (for garnish, optional)
  • Ground cinnamon (for garnish, optional)

Preparation:

  • In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, coconut milk, cream of coconut, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
  • Blend until all ingredients are well combined.
  • Stir in the white rum.
  • Transfer the mixture to bottles or jars and refrigerate until chilled.
  • Serve chilled in small glasses, garnished with cinnamon sticks or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

Coquito is a sweet and creamy Christmas delight that captures the essence of Puerto Rican holiday celebrations. It’s a sip of the tropics during the winter season.

Germany – Glühwein

Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, where Glühwein, a warm and spiced mulled wine, takes center stage. This aromatic drink is perfect for keeping warm while wandering through the festive markets.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of red wine (750 ml)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 10 cloves
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 2 star anise
  • Orange peel strips (for garnish)

Preparation:

  • In a large pot, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved.
  • Add the orange slices, lemon slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, and star anise.
  • Pour in the red wine and heat the mixture over low heat. Be careful not to let it boil.
  • Simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  • Serve the Glühwein hot in mugs, garnished with strips of orange peel.

Glühwein is a festive and aromatic Christmas drink that warms both body and soul, making it a staple at German holiday gatherings.

Bulgaria – Greyano Vino

In Bulgaria, Greyano Vino is a traditional Christmas wine-based drink that holds a special place in the hearts of locals. It’s a simple yet delicious way to celebrate the holiday season.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of red wine (750 ml)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp ground allspice
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Preparation:

  • In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
  • Add the ground cloves, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, orange zest, and lemon zest.
  • Simmer for about 10-15 minutes to infuse the syrup with flavors.
  • Pour the syrup over the red wine and stir to combine.
  • Allow the Greyano Vino to cool and marinate for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Serve chilled in glasses.

Greyano Vino is a fragrant and festive drink that showcases the flavors of Bulgaria during the Christmas season. It’s a delightful alternative to traditional mulled wines.

Jamaica – Sorrel Punch

In Jamaica, Sorrel Punch is a cherished Christmas drink made from the vibrant petals of the sorrel flower, which is similar to hibiscus. This punch is known for its bold flavor and beautiful crimson color.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups dried sorrel petals
  • 8 cups water
  • 1 piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
  • 6-8 pimento berries (allspice)
  • 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup white rum (optional)
  • Lime or orange slices (for garnish)

Preparation:

  • In a large pot, combine the sorrel petals, water, fresh ginger, and pimento berries.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.
  • Remove the pot from heat and let it steep for several hours or overnight.
  • Strain the liquid into a pitcher, discarding the sorrel petals and spices.
  • Stir in the sugar until dissolved.
  • If desired, add the white rum.
  • Serve chilled over ice, garnished with lime or orange slices.

Sorrel Punch is a zesty and refreshing Christmas drink that brings a taste of the Caribbean to holiday celebrations. Its unique flavor and vibrant color make it a standout choice.

Cuba – Aliñado

Cuba’s Christmas celebration is enriched by a special drink called Aliñado. This aromatic concoction combines dark rum with various spices and fruits, creating a delightful and spirited Christmas treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of dark rum (750 ml)
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 5 cloves
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup prunes, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup water

Preparation:

  • In a large glass jar, combine the dark rum, cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange zest, lemon zest, raisins, prunes, dried apricots, and dried figs.
  • Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least a week, shaking it occasionally to mix the ingredients.
  • In a saucepan, combine the honey, brown sugar, and water. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.
  • Let the syrup cool completely.
  • Strain the infused rum into a clean bottle or jar and add the cooled syrup. Seal and store.
  • Serve in small glasses at room temperature or over ice.

Aliñado is a complex and flavorful Christmas drink that captures the essence of Cuban holiday traditions. It’s a delightful blend of spices and fruits with a kick of dark rum.

Chile – Cola de Mono

Our final stop on this international Christmas drink tour takes us to Chile, where Cola de Mono (Monkey’s Tail) is a cherished holiday beverage. This creamy and aromatic drink is a festive favorite among Chileans.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup aguardiente (a Chilean spirit, or substitute with white rum)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup strong coffee, cooled
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • Orange zest strips (optional)

Preparation:

  • In a saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, cloves, and cinnamon stick.
  • Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Be careful not to let it boil.
  • Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.
  • Once cooled, stir in the aguardiente (or white rum), coffee, and vanilla extract.
  • Strain the mixture into bottles or jars.
  • Refrigerate until well chilled.
  • Serve Cola de Mono in small glasses, garnished with orange zest strips if desired.

Cola de Mono is a creamy and spirited Christmas delight that adds a touch of Chilean flair to holiday festivities. Its unique flavor profile makes it a memorable choice for celebrations.

Conclusion

As we’ve traveled the globe and explored these 10 Christmas drinks from around the world, it’s clear that each country has its own unique way of celebrating the holiday season with delicious and festive beverages. From the creamy comforts of Italian Bombardino to the bold flavors of Jamaican Sorrel Punch, these drinks offer a taste of international traditions and bring joy to gatherings with family and friends.

This holiday season, why not try something new and incorporate one or more of these delightful Christmas drinks into your festivities? Whether you’re sipping a warm cup of Glühwein at a German Christmas market or enjoying the tropical flavors of Coquito in Puerto Rico, these international Christmas drinks are sure to add a special touch to your celebrations. Cheers to a world of holiday flavors and traditions!