Seeing red

Your holiday party will be a hit when you keep glasses filled with these crimson-colored cocktails.

The writers of “The 12 Days of Christmas” overlooked the gift of wine and spirits in their song—all the more reason why you should feature a signature cocktail at your next holiday get-together. Eggnog and mulled wine might bring feelings of warmth and comfort, but a drink in the colors of the season is certain to boost spirits for the festive occasion. Here are three easy-to-prepare drinks that will keep everyone rockin’ around the Christmas tree.

HOLIDAY CHEER WASSAIL

n 1 bottle (750 ml.) red wine n 3 cinnamon sticks n 2 lemon wheel slices n 4 whole cloves n 1 cup honey n 2 cups water

Combine all the ingredients minus the wine in a large pot and heat until the honey is dissolved in the liquid. Add the wine and continue to heat, keeping the liquid below boiling. Serve the drink warm.

CLASSIC MANHATTAN COCKTAIL

n 2 oz. rye whiskey n 1 oz. sweet vermouth n 2 dashes Angostura bitters n ice, for mixing n bourbon cherry, for garnish

Chill a cocktail glass. In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, vermouth and bitters. Add ice and stir. Strain into the chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the cherry.

POMEGRANATE PROSECCO COCKTAIL

n 1 oz. premium vodka n 4 oz. pomegranate juice n 1½ oz. prosecco or sparkling wine n ice n sprig of rosemary, for garnish

Fill glass with ice and build the mixture in a glass.