Big-Batch Winter Drink Recipes

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The winter season is filled with occasions to celebrate in the company of friends, family, and a few good drinks. Keep things simple next time you're entertaining with one -- or several, because more really is merrier -- of these punches, cocktails, and cider drinks that you can make in batches before guests arrive.

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Mulled Wine

Cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves are some of the secrets to this red wine’s perfect-for-winter flavor. The other secret? The fact that it’s served warm.

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Photography: Craig Cutler

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Chartreuse Punch

Believe it or not, this punch is based on a liqueur that French monks have been distilling for centuries. Chartreuse is made from more than 130 herbs; you could claim this punch will help you (and your guests) fend off winter flus and colds.

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Photography: Johnny Miller

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Spiced Rum Punch

Pineapple juice, lime, and rum take taste buds to the tropics. A hint of cinnamon spices things up and keeps this punch true to the season.

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Winter Fruit Sangria

Who said sangria is just for summer? Give this favorite a winter spin; our recipe features apple as well as citrus, and warming brandy along with red wine. We think it should be a year-round staple.

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Photography: Joseph De Leo

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Christmas Punch

A little simple syrup sweetens this vodka-based punch and balances out the tart flavors of pomegranate and cranberry. It would be a super festive addition to any holiday menu.

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Whiskey Sours

When you're looking to please a crowd, it's hard to go wrong with a classic drink like a whiskey sour.

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Mulled Cranberry Cocktail

Skip the tea with dessert and treat party guests to post-dinner cocktails. Double -- or triple -- this recipe; make it ahead and reheat just before serving. It's sweet enough to serve as dessert, but don’t let that deter you from serving pie and cookies, too!

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Chai-Spiced Cider Spritzers

Nothing says winter quite like a warm, comforting cup of chai. Combine the spices with apple cider and maple syrup for a new cold-weather classic.

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Spiced Chocolate Eggnog

A holiday party without eggnog is, well, not really a holiday party at all, is it? Put a fresh twist on this classic by making a batch of chocolate 'nog. Our recipe has a rich Mexican slant; the creamy cocoa cocktail is spiced with a little chile. Ready for more? Don't miss the rest of our holiday eggnog recipes.

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Spiced Pomegranate Punch

Apple cider, along with cinnamon and ginger, is the key to this warm punch that will instantly winterize any soiree.

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Photography: Johnny Miller

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Elderflower-Champagne Punch

Delicately flavored and subtly fragrant, this floral punch gets its bright color from cranberry juice. It's sophisticated, easy to make, and just the thing for your next party.

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Coquito

This creamy cocktail pairs rum with coconut milk, evaporated milk, and cream of coconut for a combination guests will find satisfyingly rich (but not so rich that they won't be tempted to help themselves to a second glass).

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