How to Make the Perfect Cranberry Ginger Sparkler: A Festive Christmas Cocktail

A Festive Drink Done Right

The Cranberry Ginger Sparkler is the ultimate Christmas cocktail, combining the tart sweetness of cranberry with the warm spice of ginger, topped with sparkling wine for a celebratory fizz. But making this drink just right is about more than mixing the ingredients—it’s about the techniques and garnishes that make it truly shine. In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to create the perfect Cranberry Ginger Sparkler, with tips and tricks to ensure every sip is just as delightful as the last.

Ingredients for the Cranberry Ginger Sparkler

Here’s what you’ll need to make this holiday favorite:

• 2 oz

  Cranberry juice (unsweetened for a more balanced flavor)

• 1 oz

  Ginger liqueur or ginger syrup (for a spicy kick)

• 4 oz

  Sparkling wine or prosecco (choose a dry variety to balance the sweetness)

• Fresh cranberries

  for garnish

• Rosemary sprig

  for garnish (adds an aromatic holiday touch)

• Ice cubes

Step 1: Choose the Right Glassware

Selecting the right glass for your Cranberry Ginger Sparkler is key to presentation and taste. A stemless wine glass or a champagne flute works best, as both highlight the effervescence of the sparkling wine while providing enough space for the garnishes to shine.

Pro Tip: Chill your glasses in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before serving to keep your drink cold without relying too much on ice.

Step 2: Preparing the Garnishes

The garnishes for this cocktail do more than just look pretty—they add flavor and aroma to enhance the drinking experience.

• Fresh Cranberries

  : Skewer a few cranberries onto a cocktail pick or drop them directly into the glass for a festive, colorful touch.

• Rosemary Sprig

  : Gently roll the sprig between your fingers to release its aromatic oils before using it as a garnish.

Pro Tip: Lightly dust the cranberries with sugar for a frosted look that screams holiday cheer.

Step 3: Mixing the Drink

1. Fill the Glass with Ice: Start by filling your chosen glass with ice cubes. This keeps the drink chilled without diluting the flavors.

2. Add the Cranberry Juice and Ginger Liqueur: Pour 2 oz of cranberry juice and 1 oz of ginger liqueur (or syrup) over the ice. Stir gently to combine.

Pro Tip: If you’re using ginger syrup instead of liqueur, balance the sweetness with a splash of club soda or sparkling water.

Step 4: Top It Off with Sparkling Wine

Slowly pour 4 oz of sparkling wine or prosecco into the glass. Pouring slowly helps preserve the bubbles and creates a layered effect in the drink.

Pro Tip: Use a dry sparkling wine or prosecco to balance the tartness of the cranberry juice and the sweetness of the ginger liqueur.

Step 5: Final Touches

Add your garnishes to the drink:

• Drop in the

  cranberries

  or rest them on the rim with a cocktail pick.

• Place the

  rosemary sprig

  gently into the glass for a festive, aromatic flair.

Pro Tip: For extra sparkle, rim the glass with sugar before assembling the drink. Simply dip the rim in water or lemon juice and then coat with sugar for a frosty finish.

Tips for Customizing Your Cranberry Ginger Sparkler

1. Make It Non-Alcoholic: Replace the sparkling wine with ginger ale or club soda for a kid-friendly or sober-friendly version.

2. Add Citrus: A squeeze of fresh orange juice can brighten the drink and add an extra layer of flavor.

3. Experiment with Sweetness: If you like a sweeter cocktail, add a touch of honey or agave syrup to the mix.

4. Dial Up the Ginger: For an extra spicy kick, muddle fresh ginger slices in the glass before adding the liquid ingredients.

Troubleshooting: Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Too Sweet: If the drink tastes too sweet, balance it with additional cranberry juice or a splash of soda water.

2. Flat Bubbles: Ensure your sparkling wine is fresh and well-chilled to maintain the effervescence.

3. Overpowering Garnishes: Avoid overloading the drink with too many garnishes, as it can mask the delicate balance of flavors.

How BarStool Enhances Your Cocktail Experience

Want to enjoy the Cranberry Ginger Sparkler without the effort of making it at home? Use BarStool’s mobile ordering system to find bars serving festive drinks like this. BarStool ensures you can:

• Skip the wait at the bar and order directly from your phone.

• Track your spending to stay within your holiday budget.

• Connect with friends during your night out.

A Perfect Cocktail for the Perfect Holiday

The Cranberry Ginger Sparkler is a drink that brings holiday cheer to any gathering. By following these steps and tips, you can create a cocktail that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it at home or using BarStool to order it at your favorite bar, this festive drink is sure to be a hit.