If you’re planning a Christmas party or just want to sip something cozy by the fire, wine-based Christmas cocktails are a fun and easy way to bring holiday cheer into your glass. These festive drinks use wine as the main ingredient and mix in seasonal flavors like cranberry, cinnamon, citrus, and spice. They’re great for entertaining, gifting, or winding down after a long day.

And if you’re using Michigan wines from Filkins Vineyards, you’re already halfway to a great cocktail. Their reds, whites, and special holiday packs bring out the best in every pour.

Let’s jump into seven easy holiday wine cocktail recipes you can make at home—with bottles you can order online today.

1. Sparkling Holiday Spritz

This bubbly spritz is a crowd-pleaser for holiday brunch or a Christmas Eve toast. It’s light, fruity, and easy to make by the pitcher.

What you’ll need:

How to make it:
Fill glasses halfway with chilled Riesling. Add a splash of cranberry juice and a few orange slices. Garnish with rosemary and sugared cranberries.

2. Mulled Spiced Red Wine Punch

Warm, cozy, and full of spice—this classic punch is made for cold nights and Christmas gatherings.

What you’ll need:

How to make it:
Pour the red wine into a saucepan. Add spices, zest, and sweetener. Simmer gently (don’t boil) for about 20 minutes. Serve warm in mugs.

3. Winter White Sangria

This white sangria has crisp, refreshing flavors with a wintery twist. Make a batch ahead of time and keep it chilled for parties.

What you’ll need:

How to make it:
Mix wine, cider, fruit, and spices in a pitcher. Chill for at least an hour. Add a splash of soda before serving if you like it fizzy.

4. Holiday Rosé Fizz

This one is simple, pretty, and perfect for toasting. Use a dry rosé with fresh fruit for a light and festive drink.

What you’ll need:

How to make it:
Pour rosé into a wine glass. Add a splash of pomegranate juice or sparkling water. Top with seeds and mint for color and flavor.

5. Cran-Apple Riesling Cooler

This one’s bright, tart, and just a little sweet. It’s great for holiday lunches or as a low-alcohol option at dinner.

What you’ll need:

How to make it:
Fill a glass with ice, then pour in equal parts wine and apple juice. Add cranberries and mint. Stir gently and serve.

6. Red Wine Christmas Sangaree

Sangaree is an old-school version of sangria. This one’s rich and bold, perfect for pairing with holiday snacks.

What you’ll need:

How to make it:
Mix all ingredients in a pitcher and let it chill for 2–4 hours. Serve over ice with a slice of orange on top.

7. Cozy Cabernet Hot Toddy

This twist on a hot toddy swaps whiskey for wine and adds holiday warmth in every sip.

What you’ll need:

How to make it:
Warm the wine gently in a small pot. Add honey and lemon. Pour into a mug and stir with a cinnamon stick. Add a splash of hot water if you want it lighter.

Make Your Own Cocktail Kit with Michigan Wines

These recipes are easy to batch for a party or mix solo for a cozy night in. All the wines featured are available at Filkins Vineyards, where you can shop online and get bottles delivered to your door.

Need help picking? Try the November Trio Selection or the December Trio Selection. Both packs include a variety of reds and whites perfect for cocktail mixing and holiday hosting.

Don’t wait until the last minute—order early to get your wine in time for Christmas.

FAQs

What wines make the best Christmas cocktails?

Look for wines with strong flavor and good balance. Dry Riesling, Chardonnay, rosé, and bold reds like Cabernet Franc and red blends all work well.

Can you make wine cocktails without spirits?

Yes. Most of these festive wine drinks use only wine and seasonal mixers like juice, fruit, and spices—no hard liquor needed.

How many bottles should I order for a Christmas party?

Plan on ½ bottle per guest if you’re serving cocktails. Double that if wine will be the main drink of the night.

What Michigan wines are good for holiday drinks?

Some favorites include the 2024 Off-Dry Riesling, 2023 Syrah, 2024 Karma Vista White, and the 2022 Anthos Red Blend.

Wrap Up with a Toast

Wine-based Christmas cocktails are festive, easy to make, and perfect for any kind of celebration. Whether you’re keeping it simple or going all out, Michigan wines from Filkins Vineyards make it feel special. Stock up, mix a few recipes, and enjoy the season—one glass at a time.