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Drinks

The must-try cocktail trend for the holidays

This year, sweet cocktails are taking a backseat to complex, herbaceous concoctions.
Savoury cocktail trend The savoury cocktail trend is making waves this year — and you can try your own spin on it at home with our mix and match recipe. (Photo, Erik Putz.)

We're calling it: 2016 has been the year of the savoury cocktail. And with our infinitely customizable savoury cocktail recipe, you can create a signature drink at home. With flavours that are briny, herbal and refreshingly sour, it'll be a welcome change from the usual boozy-sweet holiday concoctions.

Base recipe Combine 1 oz cognac or brandy with 1 oz spirit of your choosing, 1tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp of pickle brine and 2 tsp simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with 2 cups ice. Add 1 herb sprig and shake vigorously for 10 sec. Strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with a pickle and add a second herb sprig.

Pairings

No. 1. Vodka, caper berries and dill

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Savoury vodka cocktail with caper berries and dill Photo, Erik Putz.

No. 2. Gin, pickled asparagus & rosemary sprig.

Savoury gin cocktail with rosemary and pickled asparagus Photo, Erik Putz.

No. 3. Sake, peperoncini & rosemary sprig.

Savoury sake cocktail with rosemary and pickled pepper Photo, Erik Putz.

No. 4. Tequila, pickled bean & bay leaf.

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Savoury tequila cocktail with bay leaf and pickled beans Photo, Erik Putz.

No. 5. Whiskey, bread-and-butter pickle & thyme.

Savoury whiskey cocktail with tarragon and pickle Photo, Erik Putz.

Pro tip: Slap the herbs between your hands to release essential oils before adding to cocktail glass.

Simple syrup: Boil 1 cup sugar with one cup water in a small pot until sugar dissolves. Cool and refrigerate for up to one month. Makes 1 1/2 cups.

More:
How to stock a bar for under $200
18 easy holiday cocktails
Recipe: Christmas ale

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The cover of the Chatelaine Summer 2025 issue, featuring a pink drink with a paper straw.

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