The holidays are officially here and people worldwide will be celebrating Hanukkah (or Chanukah)—also known as the Festival of Lights. The eight-day Jewish celebration commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem back in second century B.C. Hanukkah means “dedication” and begins on the 25th day of Kislev on the Hebrew Calendar and this year, it starts today! It is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games, and gifts. If you celebrate Hanukkah, these drinks are sure to get you in the holiday spirit!
Manischewitz Sangria
Manicshewitz is a sweet, kosher wine—perfect for a holiday sangria.
• 3 parts Manischewitz (Concord grape is the classic)
• ½ shot brandy per serving
• 2 parts Dole pineapple-orange juice
• 1 part lime juice
• 1 part lemon juice
• 1 part seltzer water
To Make: Cut up fresh fruit like apples, grapes, lemons, and oranges and put them in a punch bowl. Add wine and juices, top with seltzer before serving.
Mazel Tov Cocktail
The traditional colors of Hanukkah are blue and silver, and Blue Curaçao gives this drink its blue hue.
• 4 parts Blue Curaçao
• 2 parts vodka
• 6 parts ginger ale
• 1 part lime juice
• lime peel for garnish
To Make: In a tall glass filled with ice, add Blue Curaçao, lime juice, ginger ale, and vodka. Garnish with lime peel.
Hanukkah Gelt Martini
Gelt are traditional chocolate coins wrapped in gold foil that are given to children at Hanukkah.
• 2 parts potato vodka
• 1 part Goldschlager
To Make: Combine vodka and Goldschlager in a shaker with ice, mix, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Serve with Gelt.
*Bonus: If you’re feeling really fancy, melt some chocolate chips in a bowl larger than the rim of your glass. Put the glass rim first into the chocolate and cover the inner and outer rim. Then, put the glass rim first into a bowl of chocolate sprinkles. Set the glass upright for a few minutes so the chocolate can harden.
Happy Hanukkah and L’Chaim!