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Cheers to the Winter Games: A Bartender's Guide to Olympic-Inspired Cocktails

ABC Bartending College February 5, 2026 3 min read
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Cheers to the Winter Games: A Bartender's Guide to Olympic-Inspired Cocktails

Get ready to shake (and stir) things up with our guide to Olympic-inspired cocktails, expertly paired with each winter sport.

#bartending inspiration #mixology #olympic cocktails #winter olympics

The Winter Olympics are here, and with them comes a unique opportunity to get creative behind the bar. As a bartender, you know that the right drink can elevate any experience, and what's more exciting than the thrill of the Games? In this article, we'll explore the perfect cocktails to pair with each winter sport, from Alpine Skiing to Snowboarding.

Skiing and Snowboarding Favorites

Alpine Skiing, one of the most popular winter sports, deserves a drink that's just as elegant. The Tenuta San Leonardo Vigneti Delle Dolomiti 2019, an Alpine red from Italy, is a great choice. With its leather and berry notes, it's the perfect accompaniment to the thrill of downhill racing.

For Snowboarding, a sport that's all about speed and style, we recommend a drink that's just as bold. A New York Sour, with its whiskey base and red wine float, is a visually stunning cocktail that's sure to impress.

Speed and Agility

Short Track Speed Skating is one of the fastest sports at the Olympics, with events over in under a minute. For this adrenaline-fueled sport, we suggest a shot of Italian liqueur, such as Fernet or Limoncello, to keep up with the action.

In Speed Skating, the Netherlands dominates, so why not try a Dutch-inspired drink? A Heineken or Amstel is a classic choice, but for something a bit more unique, try an Espresso Martini or Carajillo to get your heart racing.

Thrills and Spills

Luge, with its high-speed descents and treacherous tracks, demands a drink that's just as bold. A strong German lager, such as a bock or doppelbock, is the perfect choice to keep you on the edge of your seat.

For Freestyle Skiing, where athletes show off their skills and stunts, we recommend a drink that's just as impressive. A flaming Blue Blazer or a towering Ramos Gin Fizz is sure to wow your customers and keep them cheering on their favorite athletes.

What This Means for Bartenders

As a bartender, the Winter Olympics offer a unique opportunity to get creative and showcase your skills. By offering Olympic-inspired cocktails, you can:

  • Attract new customers who are excited about the Games
  • Create a fun and festive atmosphere in your bar
  • Show off your mixology skills and creativity
  • Increase sales and revenue during a typically slow period

To make the most of this opportunity, consider:

  • Creating a special Olympic-themed menu featuring drinks paired with each winter sport
  • Hosting viewing parties and events for customers to watch the Games
  • Using social media to promote your Olympic-inspired cocktails and attract new customers
  • Offering special deals and discounts for customers who come in wearing their favorite team's jersey or colors

At Bartending College, we're dedicated to helping you succeed behind the bar. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, we offer a range of [[bartending programs|/programs]] and [[free guides|/guides]] to help you stay on top of the latest trends and techniques.

So why not get in the spirit and create some Olympic-inspired cocktails to serve at your bar? With a little creativity and flair, you can turn the Winter Games into a profitable and fun experience for your customers.

Ready to shake things up?

If you're interested in pursuing a career in bartending or want to take your skills to the next level, check out our [[bartending programs|/programs]] and [[find a location|/locations]] near you. With our expert training and guidance, you can turn your passion into a career and create unforgettable experiences for your customers.

About this article: This bartender-focused analysis was curated from industry news sources by ABC Bartending College using AI assistance. We synthesize and translate hospitality industry reporting for bartenders and aspiring professionals. See sources below for original reporting.

ABC Bartending College

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ABC Bartending College

Editorial Team

ABC Bartending College has been training professional bartenders since 1980. With over 35 locations nationwide, we've helped thousands of students launch successful careers in the hospitality industry.

Original Reporting

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