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Entertaining

35 Swanky Cocktail Ideas for New Year’s Eve (Good Riddance to 2020!)

Posted by Jenny Potter. Last updated on December 27, 2020 by Sharon Miki Chan

Has there ever been more reason to toast to the start of a new year? As the ball drops and we say goodbye (and good riddance) to 2020, we’ll be ready to celebrate with elegant cocktails in hand. From sparkling champagne drinks to our most popular cocktails, these cocktail ideas will bring some sparkle and shine to your New Year’s Eve.

  • Classic Cosmopolitan
     
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    Classic Cosmopolitan

    <p>Shake up a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/photos/classic-cocktail-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">classic cocktail</a> to ring in the new year in style with this super-simple and refreshing cosmopolitan from Ina Garten. There’s a reason why this vodka-based drink is one of the most popular cocktails (both at the holidays and all year long) — a touch of cranberry juice provides irresistible tang and a pretty pink hue.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/blog/ina-garten-classic-cosmopolitan/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Cosmopolitan</a></strong></p>
  • Champagne Cocktail
     
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    Champagne Cocktail

    <p>Champagne sounds fancy, but it can also be <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/wine-beer-spirits/photos/affordable-bottles-champagne/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">affordable</a> — and a champagne cocktail makes for a delightfully celebratory sip on New Year's Eve. Add unique flavour to the bubbly by splashing bitters onto a sugar cube, which you can then pop into the flute. A twist of lemon rind along the edge of your cocktail makes it all the more fragrant and beautiful.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bobby-flays-champagne-cocktail/17404/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bobby Flay’s Champagne Cocktail</a><strong></p>
  • Blushing Cherry-Berry Sangria
     
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    Blushing Cherry-Berry Sangria

    <p>New Year’s Eve cocktails don’t get much easier (or tastier) than this fruity, fresh <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/sangria-recipes-for-every-season/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sangria</a> — just mix up a pitcher and pour yourself a glass to sip on as needed. Bursting with red fruit like strawberries, raspberries and cherries, this particular sangria is extra refreshing with muddled mint and sparkling wine.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/blog/how-to-make-blushing-cherry-berry-sangria/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Blushing Cherry-Berry Sangria</a></strong></p>
  • Fresh Whiskey Sours
     
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    Fresh Whiskey Sours

    <p>Tangy, refreshing and simple to shake up with just five ingredients (including a bright Maraschino cherry), these whiskey sours are the perfect cocktail for a cozy holiday celebration at home this New Year’s Eve. Pair your whiskey sour with a few of these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/ina-gartens-best-holiday-appetizers" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">holiday appetizer idea</a>s from The Barefoot Contessa to start the new year off on a delicious note.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/barefoot-contessa-back-to-basics/blog/ina-garten-fresh-whiskey-sours/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Fresh Whiskey Sours</a></strong></p>
  • Vegan Eggnog
     
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    Vegan Eggnog

    <p>Creamy, smooth and finished with a signature mix of warming spices, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/delicious-festive-eggnog-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">eggnog</a> is a seasonal staple that makes a great cocktail idea for those who want a creamier drink to ring in the new year. This version is made with a mix of coconut milk and almond milk for a dairy-free, vegan spin!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/blog/vegan-eggnog-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vegan Eggnog</a></strong></p>
  • Champagne Bourbon Cocktail
     
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    Champagne Bourbon Cocktail

    <p>Bourbon? Check. Bubbly? Check. Ring in the new year with this beautifully bubbly bourbon-and-champagne cocktail from Bobby Flay. Don't forget to <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/one-bite-appetizers-new-years-eve/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">prep a few one-bite appetizers</a> to give your New Year's Eve a fittingly festive feel.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/champagne-bourbon-cocktail/17402/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bobby Flay’s Champagne Bourbon Cocktail</a></strong></p>
  • Sparkling Limeade
     
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    Sparkling Limeade

    <p>For a refreshing sip, this mocktail mix from Roger Mooking stars fresh lime juice, mint and ripe plums for plenty of flavour. For a boozier cocktail idea, try adding some sparkling wine to the mix. Can’t get enough citrus flavour this winter? Here are some <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/citrus-recipe-cold-winter-days/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">bright citrus recipes</a> that are perfect for the chilly season.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sparkling-limeade/11219/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Roger Mooking's Sparkling Limeade</a></strong></p>
  • Apple and Thyme Martini
     
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    Apple and Thyme Martini

    <p>If you've been sipping on <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/fall-apple-cider-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">apple cider</a> all season but want a more elevated take on apple flavour for New Year's Eve, this cocktail idea could be your ideal option. Shake up your martini game with this seasonal version that combines fresh, fruity apple juice, vodka and fragrant thyme simple syrup.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/apple-and-thyme-martini/17518/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Giada De Laurentiis’ Apple and Thyme Martini</a></strong></p>
  • Pomegranate Royale
     
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    Pomegranate Royale

    <p>What's New Year's Eve without a little sparkle in your cocktail? This sweet, pink and sparkly drink has been kissed with pomegranate, subtle honey syrup and brought to life with effervescent sparkling wine. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pomegranate-royale/17650/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pomegranate Royale</a></strong></p>
  • Sweet ‘n Sour Tamarind Drink
     
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    Sweet ‘n Sour Tamarind Drink

    <p>Tangy, but still sweet enough for the special occasion, this sweet-and-sour mocktail gets its kick from tamarind, star anise and a little cinnamon. For a fun (and boozy) <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/easy-holiday-party-drinks/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">holiday cocktail</a> idea, try stirring in a splash of tequila before serving.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-n-sour-tamarind-drink/9733/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Roger Mooking's Sweet ‘n Sour Tamarind Drink</a></strong></p>
  • Red Wine Spritzers
     
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    Red Wine Spritzers

    <p>Sparkle up your New Year’s Eve with a light and bubbling cocktail idea. Rachael Ray adds berries to each glass, but frozen cranberries would be equally lovely and festive.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/red-wine-spritzers/19414/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rachael Ray’s Red Wine Spritzers</a></strong></p>
  • Cranberry Clementine Mulled Sangria
     
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    Cranberry Clementine Mulled Sangria

    <p>Who says sangria is just a summer sipper? Filled with winter fruits and seasoned with allspice, cloves and a whole cinnamon stick, your festive winter punch is right here — and it makes a perfect cocktail to go with our <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/wine-beer-spirits/photos/best-new-years-eve-party-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">best New Year's Eve recipes</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cranberry-clementine-mulled-sangria/19413/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cranberry Clementine Mulled Sangria</a></strong></p>
  • Lemon-Hazelnut Spritz
     
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    Lemon-Hazelnut Spritz

    <p>Break out the champagne glasses for the ultimate presentation of this super simple, seasonal cocktail. Nutty (thanks to hazelnut liqueur) and fresh with a citrus twist, this refreshing sipper is sure to get you into the festive spirit.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-hazelnut-spritz/17604/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Giada De Laurentiis’ Lemon-Hazelnut Spritz</a></strong></p>
  • Apple Cider Punch
     
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    Apple Cider Punch

    <p>This cocktail recipe can be prepared early in the day and brought out of the fridge when the countdown starts. Flavoured with rum and dotted with frozen cranberries, it’s a great choice for ringing in a new year. Want to make your New Year's Eve extra relaxed? Prep the food ahead of time, too, with these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/make-ahead-holiday-meal-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">make-ahead holiday recipes</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/apple-cider-punch/15084/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Apple Cider Punch</a></strong></p>
  • Citrus Berry Spritz
     
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    Citrus Berry Spritz

    <p>So cool: a mix of raspberries, blueberries and blackberries make beautiful, colourful ice cubes for this mouth-watering minty drink. Here are a few other <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/fun-with-food/photos/cool-things-to-make-with-ice-cube-tray/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cool ways to make the most of your ice cube tray</a>.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/citrus-berry-spritz/17592/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Giada De Laurentiis’ Citrus Berry Spritz</a></strong></p>
  • Hazelnut Coffee Martini
     
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    Hazelnut Coffee Martini

    <p>Want to sip on something creamy and <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/warm-cozy-fall-drinks/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">chocolatey</a> to close out the year on a sweet note? Smooth hazelnut liqueur pairs perfectly with creamy coffee for a tasty after-dinner treat, made for the holiday season.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/giada-entertains/recipe/hazelnut-coffee-martini/17923/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Giada De Laurentiis' Hazelnut Coffee Martini</a></strong></p>
  • Silver Fizz Cocktail
     
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    Silver Fizz Cocktail

    <p>Three, two, one! Pop a bottle of prosecco and whip up a batch of this elegant and refreshing grapefruit bubbly cocktail.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/silver-fizz-cocktail/17658/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Silver Fizz Cocktail</strong></a></p>
  • 3 Festive Cranberry Cocktails
     
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    3 Festive Cranberry Cocktails

    <p>It wouldn’t be the holidays without <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/easy-cranberry-sauce-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cranberries</a> — and the same goes for cocktails. Combine the best of both worlds and celebrate the festive season in style with these three beverage recipes featuring seasonal cranberries.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/3-festive-cranberry-cocktails/18813/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>3 Festive Cranberry Cocktails</strong></a></p>
  • Champagne Jelly Flutes
     
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    Champagne Jelly Flutes

    <p>It wouldn’t be New Year’s Eve without a little bubbly! Get the party started with these unique champagne-and-gelatin treats that capture all the bubbles inside.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/champagne-jelly-flutes/19412/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Champagne Jelly Flutes</a></strong></p>
  • Apple Cider Shandy
     
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    Apple Cider Shandy

    <p>This easy cocktail pairs up lager and sparkling apple cider for a sweet, bubbly, refreshing beverage. Obsessed with apple cider? Try making this warm, <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/apple-cider-coffee-cake-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cider-flavoured coffee cake</a> for your New Year's morning brunch.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/apple-cider-shandy/18320/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Giada De Laurentiis' Apple Cider Shandy</strong></a></p>
  • Pomegranate Sangria
     
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    Pomegranate Sangria

    <p>If you're looking for a flavourful new spin on sangria, Bobby Flay has got you covered with this variation featuring <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/flavour-packed-pomegrante-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet and tart pomegranate</a> — it's so tasty you’ll be making a second batch before midnight.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pomegranate-sangria/17537/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bobby Flay's Pomegranate Sangria</a></strong></p>
  • Canadian Winter’s Punch
     
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    Canadian Winter’s Punch

    <p>This <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/photos/10-sensational-canadian-cocktails/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sensational Canadian cocktail</a> showcases classic Canadian rye and is seasoned with Earl Grey tea, allspice, vanilla bean and nutmeg.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/canadian-winters-punch/17555/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Canadian Winter’s Punch</a></strong></p>
  • Cranberry, Orange and Prosecco
     
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    Cranberry, Orange and Prosecco

    <p>Bubbles and fruit make for a simple and sweet cocktail idea — and this yummy mix of prosecco, cranberry and orange is a delicious combination for New Year's Eve.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cranberry-orange-and-prosecco/12140/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cranberry, Orange and Prosecco</a></strong></p>
  • Library Punch
     
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    Library Punch

    <p>Want to bring fruity flavour to your <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/fabulous-and-healthy-new-years-eve-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">New Year's Eve </a>celebrations? You’ll adore the way rum, absinthe, grenadine, pineapple, lemon zest, bitters and fresh mint combine to create a fruity and refreshing punch.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/library-punch/18903/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Library Punch</a></strong></p>
  • Cranberry Cosmo Punch
     
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    Cranberry Cosmo Punch

    <p>For a sweet and delicious cocktail, mix up a batch of this punch made with cranberry juice, triple sec and vodka. Finish it with an orange twist for garnish.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cranberry-cosmo-punch/17552/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis’ Cranberry Cosmo Punch</a></strong></p>
  • Hot Mulled Cider
     
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    Hot Mulled Cider

    <p>This hot cocktail recipe is perfect for ringing in the new year. The lemon juice delivers vitamin C and the honey soothes the throat (here are a few more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/curative-immune-boosting-foods/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">immune-boosting foods</a> to start your year). Cheers!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/hot-mulled-cider/17788/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Hot Mulled Cider</strong></a></p>
  • Sparkling Apple Cider Punch
     
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    Sparkling Apple Cider Punch

    <p>Serve this <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/festive-non-alcoholic-sparklers-mocktails-and-virgin-drinks/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">non-alcoholic punch</a> as is for a sparkling treat everyone can enjoy or booze it up with vodka if you choose.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sparkling-apple-cider-punch/16935/#0RPhLZqCLPmJi7wi.99" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sparkling Apple Cider Punch</a></strong></p>
  • French Seventy Cinco
     
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    French Seventy Cinco

    <p>Inspired by the French 75, this classy <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/creative-ways-cook-champagne-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">champagne</a> cocktail brings together tequila, prickly pear liqueur, sweet agave syrup and refreshing lime juice. Full of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/vegan-mexican-recipes/#!460x307-healthy-vegan-tacos" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mexican flavours</a>, the whole thing is topped with bubbles and a twist of lime.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/french-seventy-cinco/18287/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>French Seventy Cinco</strong></a></p>
  • Sweet Potato Pie Cocktail
     
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    Sweet Potato Pie Cocktail

    <p>Opt for après-dinner cocktails instead of dessert by blending up this creamy concoction of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet potato</a> juice punched up with aromatic, smoky tequila and balanced with cinnamon and pear. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-potato-pie-cocktail/19411/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sweet Potato Pie Cocktail</a></strong></p>
  • Pear Bellini
     
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    Pear Bellini

    <p>Count down to midnight with a simple cocktail you can count on. There are only two ingredients in this delightful fruity and bubbly champagne cocktail, meaning it's easy to make so you can focus on celebrating.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pear-bellini/17798/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pear Bellini</a></strong></p>
  • Pink Stinger
     
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    Pink Stinger

    <p>Ring in the new year with a drink with zing! Cherries, champagne, pink lemon juice, Triple sec, brandy and sweet sherry combine into a strong and flavourful punch.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pink-stinger/13987/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Pink Stinger</a></strong></p>
  • Classic Manhattan Cocktail
     
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    Classic Manhattan Cocktail

    <p>What better cocktail to serve on New Year’s Eve than a classic Manhattan? It’s easy to make and each drink can be customized according to how sweet or dry you like it.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/wine-beer-spirits/blog/how-to-make-a-classic-manhattan-cocktail/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Classic Manhattan Cocktail</a></strong></p>
  • Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail
     
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    Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail

    <p>This bubbly cocktail takes champagne to a whole other level with fresh mint and pomegranate seeds. It's a bright, fun drink to help you celebrate!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pomegranate-champagne-cocktail/20073/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail</a></strong></p>
  • Fancy Farmer’s Cocktail
     
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    Fancy Farmer’s Cocktail

    <p>Peaches, mint, champagne, vodka, crème de cassis and lime — oh my! This sweet punch is the perfect drink to serve on New Year's Eve (or any evening).</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/fancy-farmers-cocktail/19983/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fancy Farmer’s Cocktail</a></strong></p>
  • Gin Blossom
     
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    Gin Blossom

    <p>Served in a classic champagne coup for a classy sip, this refreshing gin-based cocktail features Lillet Blanc and elderflower liqueur. Cheers to that!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/gin-blossom/12288/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gin Blossom</a></strong></p>
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