Pomegranate Margarita Christmas Punch

We’ve all mourned the passing of summer- alfresco evenings, a dip in the pool, barbecues and margaritas… until now! Yes, my tenacity for my favourite cocktail has led to the creation of the pomegranate margarita, a Christmas punch that will make the cold season much more palatable. It’s a classic margarita mix in festive red that’s made long with tart pomegranate juice and sparkly prosecco. Summer who?

Not sure about the pomegranate part? This all-weather twist on the marg, blood orange margarita, is short, refreshing and just as celebratory. And if tequilas not your thing, let’s be honest, it isn’t everyone’s, try these Christmas drink ideas: berry crush with a vodka base, or a cognac sour. 

Christmas margarita

So, you’re hosting a glittering Christmas do and EVERYONE wants one of your sig margs. But rounds of margarita-making are labour intensive and time consuming. And so last summer. Side-step missing out on your own party and step it up with a seasonal Christmas punch margarita-style. 

All the classic ingredients are there: tequila, lime, and orange liqueur, but in more modest proportions for more relaxed drinking. Mixed with a generous slug of pomegranate juice, and a flexible measure of prosecco these drinks offer a bit more longevity.

Pomegranates are a Christmas tradition and symbolise prosperity and good fortune, so what would be better for a classy cocktail. Pomegranate juice is both tart and sweet, somewhere between a red grape and a cranberry.

And the colour! Ruby red and reflective like the gem itself. It’s the ideal mixer for a party punch recipe.

I’ve also added prosecco. It is Christmas after all! This ingredient brings the bubbles and can also add length. Stick to the measure of pomegranate juice and alter the prosecco top to make a longer or shorter drink.

Serving suggestions

Cut glass glassware will do any Christmas punch justice. The multi facets will sparkle like jewels showing off the fruity tones and baby bubbles of this one. For this Christmas margarita, I’ve chosen a round-bottomed tumbler with a gold rim, as red and gold are always my theme colours this time of year. 

To me, garnish is as important as the glass. I’ve dashed a sprig of rosemary in mine, partly for the almost piney fragrance and because it looks like a mini Christmas tree! You could use slender lime slices or dainty pomegranate seeds. Or just go au naturel. 

A word about ice. Ice is essential but be aware that it will dilute the drink and dampen the fizz, so it’s best to add it as close to serving as possible.

Other drinks to try

• Mojito Spritz
• Elderflower Peach Bellini
• Cherry Long Island Iced Tea
• Lemon Prosecco Float “Sgroppino”