Hosting a holiday party always sounds exciting at first, until you’re standing in the kitchen trying to figure out what drinks to make for people with completely different tastes. Most guests want something festive, simple, and good, without watching you disappear behind the counter for half the night. Full Throttle Distillery makes this much easier. Our small-batch spirits have strong, clean flavor, which means you don’t need ten ingredients to make a drink people enjoy. A few ounces of the right bottle mixed with everyday items can turn into something your guests talk about long after the holidays end.
Anyone who has visited Deadwood knows our spirits carry a certain edge and personality that reflect the town itself. That feeling translates surprisingly well into holiday cocktails, whether you’re hosting family, bringing a bottle to a party, or simply want something seasonal to sip on at home. Below are some drinks that work for all kinds of gatherings and don’t require any complicated steps.
Why Full Throttle Spirits Work So Well for Holiday Drinks
What makes a good holiday cocktail isn’t a long list of ingredients, it’s the base spirit. Full Throttle spirits are crafted with real ingredients and a clear focus on flavor. Moonshine blends naturally with fruit and spice, aged whiskey brings warmth and depth, S’Loonshine adds bold flavor without extra work, and white whiskey gives you a lighter option that still carries good character. When the bottle already tastes great, everything you mix with it becomes easier and quicker.
Here’s a List of Holiday Cocktails
- S’Loonshine Cranberry Sparkler
This drink is bright, crisp, and perfect for guests who want something light. Mix 2 oz of S’Loonshine with 3 oz of cranberry juice over ice, then add 1 oz of sparkling water. A few cranberries or an orange peel make it look festive without any extra trouble.
- Deadwood Hot Apple Shine
For cold nights, warm 6 oz of apple cider (no need to boil it) and add 1.5 oz of S’Loonshine Apple Pie. Stir it with a cinnamon stick and you’re done. If you’re serving many people, warm a gallon of cider in a slow cooker with 12–14 oz of S’Loonshine Apple Pie and a handful of cinnamon sticks, then let everyone pour their own.
- Black Hills Aged Whiskey Maple Mix
This one feels rich without being heavy. Stir 2 oz of aged whiskey with half an ounce of maple syrup and two dashes of bitters over ice. Strain it into a glass and finish with an orange peel. It pairs well with any holiday meal or dessert.
- Holiday Moonshine Mule
If you want something crisp and refreshing, combine 2 oz of moonshine with 4–5 oz of ginger beer and half an ounce of fresh lime juice. Pour it over ice and add a few cranberries if you want color. It works well for guests who prefer lighter drinks.
- Peppermint White Whiskey Mocha
For a dessert-style drink, pour 6 oz of hot cocoa or coffee into a mug and add 1 to 1.5 oz of white whiskey. Stir it with a peppermint stick. It feels cozy and fits right in with cookies, pies, or a holiday movie night.
Choosing the Right Spirit for Your Party
If you’re not sure what to buy, think about the kind of drinks your guests enjoy. Moonshine mixes easily with fruit and spice, which makes it great for big groups. Aged whiskey works well for warm, rich drinks. White whiskey blends easily with coffee and cocoa, especially when you want something sweet. And S’Loonshine flavors make cocktails simple because the flavor is already built in. Picking up a bottle of moonshine and a bottle of aged whiskey usually covers most guests.
Easy Hosting Tips That Make a Difference
Holiday hosting feels easier when you prepare small things ahead of time. Chilling mixers early, cutting garnishes before guests arrive, and keeping water and snacks available help the night move smoothly. Planning for one to two drinks per guest per hour keeps you from running out, and making larger batches, like the hot apple shine, saves time so you can actually enjoy the night instead of constantly refilling glasses.
How Full Throttle Distillery Helps You Host
If you want to try spirits before choosing what to serve, stop by the distillery for tastings. Our team can point you toward bottles that match your taste or the type of gathering you’re planning. If your holiday plans involve a bigger group, we also offer space for private events of twelve or more, with the option to bring your own food and let our spirits handle the rest. And if you need gifts, both our bottles and gift cards make easy, appreciated presents for anyone visiting or living in Deadwood.
Holiday cocktails don’t need complicated steps. With the right spirits and a few simple recipes, you can create drinks that fit the season and still enjoy your own party. Pick up your favorite Full Throttle spirits from our menu, mix a few of these recipes, and bring a little Deadwood character into your holiday celebrations.
