Holiday entertaining has evolved, but one truth remains: cocktails turn an ordinary evening into an occasion. Their history is rooted in this idea—transforming basic ingredients into something greater through balance, craft, and a bit of theater. The modern bar cart may be sleeker, the spirits more polished, yet the appeal is unchanged: a thoughtful drink signals care, generosity, and attention. Should you be hosting a gathering, these tips should bring your vision into reality and increase the luster of your drinks without requiring nerd-level homework. Cocktails are not, and have never been, strictly necessary, but in a way that’s what makes them shine. It’s the frame around a picture or the frosting on a cake, or dressing up for date night even if it’s just you and your spouse—they’re the definition of making an effort. Crafting, serving, sipping a great drink is one of the million small choices that add..
