The drinks, places and tips to get your Christmas parties started right

With only a few weeks to go to Christmas, we're thinking parties: that means what to serve if you're throwing a soiree at home and where to go if you want to leave the entertainment to the professionals.

We kick off by mixing a Classic Champagne Cocktail, then open up a tasty low abv Winter Sparkling Tea from Fortnum & Mason, followed by the Christmas-pudding-in-a-glass Black Cow Christmas Spirit. Next we put on our party gear and head out to QT at The Green Room. With live music from top musicians, great cocktails, food and a chance to dance (or grab the mic), it ticks all the boxes for fabulous festive fun – whether you're in a group, with your partner or on your own.

If, on the other hand, you're planning a party at home, check out our library pick from top New York bartender Julie Reiner. Her book The Craft Cocktail Party is worth having in your library throughout the year but come winter it's invaluable, with chapters dedicated to Christmas and New Year's Eve drinks and plenty of handy hosting tips.

Which leads us nicely to our guest this week… Cocktail lovers, allow us to introduce you to the legend that is Mr Moe Aljaff from Two Schmucks in Barcelona. What this man doesn't know about bringing the party vibes to any room isn't worth knowing. Here he shares his expertise on getting the party started (and continuing) right.

What we're mixing:

Champagne Cocktail

30ml Cognac VSOP

3 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters

1 sugar cube

Brut Champagne/Cremant/Cava (Dry)

Orange zest

Method:

Coat sugar cube with the Angostura bitters then drop into a Champagne flute. Add the cognac to your glass then top with Champagne. Spritz with orange zest.

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The Cocktail Lovers theme music is by Travis 'T Bone' Watson

Black Cow Christmas Spirit

Fortnum & Mason Winter Sparkling Tea

The Craft Cocktail Party

QT presents The Green Room

Read about Moe Aljaff and his bars here

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