Break out the Brackish bowties & fall fancy – it’s the season for stylish winter soirees in Charleston (hooray!). And what better accessory than a fun, festive cocktail to sip through the celebrations? Pull up a chair, and let the PPHG event experts shake up your holiday occasion with these fun & fresh winter cocktail ideas.

Left: Aaron and Jillian Photography // Right: Alice Keeney

The arrival of crisp weather is an especially perfect occasion to cozy up to hot classics with a grownup twist – think spiked cider with a baked apple chip garnish, vanilla bourbon toddies, and one of our favorite wedding trends, the coffee and cordials bar! Wake up the late-night set with syrups and sweet liqueurs to stir in, then let guests top off their cuppa with shaved chocolate, whipped cream… and a warm, sugared doughnut hole compliments of our Patrick Properties pastry chef.

Photos: Aaron and Jillian Photography

Warm flavors are great over ice, too! We love signature PPHG cocktails that spotlight aged spirits like whiskey or bourbon with hints of ginger, vanilla and spices like clove, nutmeg and cinnamon.

Photos: Aaron and Jillian Photography

Aromatic herbs like sage, juniper and thyme bring a pop of freshness and color to the cocktail bar. How gorgeous are these gin spritzes with sprigs of rosemary?

Right: Dana Cubbage Weddings

If you really want to impress, spotlight a sparkling champagne tower, or pass the bubbles with a gold-leaf rim.

Photo: Jennings King Photography

Left: Dana Cubbage Weddings // Right: Evan Laettner

Whether toasting the year’s end with the office crowd or celebrating with friends and family, it’s easy to spread holiday cheers with these creative cocktail ideas – especially since today we’re sharing a recipe straight from our historic Charleston venues for your personal bar cart!

Bacon-Maple Manhattan

Photo: Dana Cubbage Weddings

We love the luxurious, classic feel of a Manhattan, and it’s easy to see why this one is a hit with gents, especially. Maple syrup lends added depth, while candied bacon is a salty-sweet indulgence ideal for a special occasion. Honestly, is there anything that isn’t made better with bacon? 

4oz Bourbon (such as Makers Mark)

1oz Maple Syrup

1oz Sweet Vermouth

Pinch of Salt

Add ice, combine ingredients and shake over ice, strain into glass

Garnish with a skewer of candied bacon