December is just around the corner, and that means we're ready for all the holiday cheers.

Typically, we host an annual Christmas party with our nearest and dearest. Most of the time, we stick to a beverage menu consisting heavily of reds- you can find my comprehensive list of reds for every budget here. But this year I wanted to spruce it up with a few seasonal cocktails from our local favorite, Lugano Wine Bar & Salumeria.

So a few weeks ago I stopped by to get a lesson in how to make some well-loved signature cocktails- we’re partial to the espresso martini. I’ve included the recipes below for your to try out at home by the fire this holiday. And if you’re looking for a spot to meet up with friends this season, stop by Lugano for a cocktail and a charcuterie plate- they’re the very best in town.

Autumn Breeze

Ingredients:

1.5oz Remy Martin Cognac
1oz Blood Orange Puree
.5oz Rosemary Simple Syrup
Prosecco Float

Make:
Add all ingredients except prosecco to shaker tin. Add ice, shake, and double-strain into a snifter.
Top with prosecco float and garnish with a rosemary sprig.

Espresso Martini

Ingredients:

Fresh Brewed Espresso
2oz Stoli Vanilla
.5oz Frangelico
.50z Kahlua
1oz Bailey’s Irish Cream

Make:
Add all ingredients except Bailey's to shaker tin. Add ice, shake, and double-strain into a Martini glass.
Add Bailey’s and 3 coffee beans

Exile and Ryeville 

Ingredients:

1.5 Rye Whiskey
.75 oz Honey Cinnamon Simple Syrup
.5 Cointreau
.5 oz Lemon Juice

Make:
Add all ingredients to shaker tin. Add ice, shake, and double-strain into a Martini glass.

photos by Julia Dags