12 Delicious Pomegranate Cocktails to Sip This Season

Pomegranate cocktails are quickly gaining popularity, and it’s no wonder why. Striking the perfect balance between tart and sweet, along with that gorgeous ruby-red colour, these drinks bring something truly special to the party. Whether you’re mixing up a Margarita or serving a sparkling punch, pomegranates add a burst of fun and flavour that makes every sip a little more exciting. Here are a few of our favourites to try at home.

1. Pomegranate Margarita

For a pomegranate cocktail with a tasty tequila kick, go with the invigorating Pomegranate Margarita. Start by rimming a Margarita glass with salt or sugar, which can be achieved by rubbing a lime wedge along the rim and dipping it into a plate of salt or sugar.  

In a shaker filled with ice, combine 60 ml tequila, 30 ml pomegranate juice, 30 ml freshly squeezed lime juice, 15 ml Grand Marnier, and 15 ml sugar syrup (adjust according to sweetness preference). Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds, then strain the mixture into the prepared Margarita glass filled with ice. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a lime slice. 

Make it with: Espolòn Tequila Blanco

You might also love: Lime Margarita | Champagne Margarita | Grand Margarita 

2. Pomegranate Cosmopolitan

This pomegranate vodka cocktail is a luscious riff on the classic, orange-tinged Cosmopolitan.  Add 60 ml vodka, 30 ml pomegranate juice, 15 ml freshly squeezed lime juice, 15 ml Grand Marnier, and 15 ml cranberry juice to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to thoroughly combine the ingredients and chill the mixture. Strain the cocktail into a Martini glass, discarding the ice. Garnish with a few pomegranate arils for an elegant touch. 

Make it with: SKYY Vodka

Read next: Cosmopolitan Variations (Modern Twists on a Classic Cocktail)

3. Pama Martini

If you love to experiment with different types of Martinis, one of the first pomegranate juice cocktails you’ve got to try is the Pama Martini. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add 45 ml SKYY vodka, 45 ml pomegranate liqueur, and 10 ml orange liqueur. Give it a vigorous shake to blend the flavours together. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass, ensuring no ice is transferred. Finally, garnish your martini with a twist of lemon for an added touch of zest. 

Make it with: Grand Marnier

Read next: 11 Fruity Martini Recipes to Add Some Colour to Your Next Party

4. Pomegranate Mimosas

For a pomegranate juice cocktail that would be completely at home on a posh brunch table, go with a Pomegranate Mimosa. This spin-off of the classic Mimosa is just as easy to make (and enjoy!) as the original. Start by pouring 60 ml of chilled pomegranate juice into a champagne flute. Next, slowly add 120 ml of chilled champagne or sparkling wine to the flute. Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine the flavours. For an elegant touch, garnish your Pomegranate Mimosa with a few pomegranate arils or an orange slice.  

Zesty besties: 14 Cocktails with Orange Liqueur

5. Pomegranate Gin Fizz

We adore a pomegranate gin cocktail moment, and we think you will too, once you pour this vibrant Pomegranate Gin Fizz. Combine 60 ml gin, 30 ml pomegranate juice, 45 ml freshly squeezed lime juice, and 45 ml sugar syrup in a shaker. Fill the shaker with ice and vigorously shake for 20 seconds to blend the flavours. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Top it off with club soda, adjusting the amount to your preference.   

Make it with: Bulldog Gin

More fizzy goodness: Ramos Gin Fizz | Sloe Gin Fizz 

6. Pomegranate Old Fashioned

If you like your cocktail with pomegranate juice to have a strong spirit-based backbone, might we suggest the Pomegranate Old Fashioned? Just like the classic Old Fashioned, it calls for a base of bourbon or rye whiskey, but then ventures off onto a fruitier route.  

In a mixing glass, combine 60 ml bourbon, 45 ml pomegranate juice, 45 ml sugar syrup, and 2 dashes of bitters. Fill the mixing glass with ice and gently stir for about 30 seconds to blend the ingredients and chill the cocktail. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish the drink with a twist of orange peel, expressing its aromatic oils over the glass before placing it as a final garnish. 

Make it with: Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon

Learn more: The Difference Between a Manhattan and an Old Fashioned?  

7. Pomegranate Champagne Punch

The best Champagne cocktails tend to be a little extra, and this pomegranate cocktail recipe certainly does not disappoint on that front. Get sparkly with our Pomegranate Champagne Punch at your next get-together! 

In a punch bowl or large pitcher, combine 1 cup of pomegranate juice and 1/4 cup of Grand Marnier. Slowly pour in 1 bottle of chilled champagne or sparkling wine, gently stirring to blend the flavours. Add 1 cup of chilled ginger ale or soda water to infuse an extra touch of effervescence. Keep the punch cool in the fridge, and add ice just before your guests arrive so it doesn’t dilute the taste. For an extra festive touch, garnish with orange slices. 

Host with the most: Pitcher-Perfect Batching Cocktails for a Crowd 

8. Pomegranate Daiquiri

If you like your cocktails with pomegranate juice to have a beachy twist, we highly recommend the Pomegranate Daiquiri. The Strawberry Daiquiri may be the most well-known of its kind, but this juicy version is just as delectable.  

In a shaker, combine 60 ml rum, 45 ml pomegranate juice, 30 ml freshly squeezed lime juice, and 30 ml sugar syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to blend the ingredients and chill the cocktail. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve. 

Make it with: Wray & Nephew Overproof Rum

Sweet sensations: The Complete Guide to Sugar Syrups

9. Pomegranate Moscow Mule

The Moscow Mule is a warm-weather classic, and the Pomegranate Moscow Mule is another one of those drinks that you want to be sipping when the weather turns balmy.   

In a copper mug or glass, combine 60 ml SKYY Vodka, 30 ml pomegranate juice, and 45 ml freshly squeezed lime juice. Fill the mug or glass with ice cubes, filling it about 2/3 full. Pour in 120 – 160 ml ginger beer, adjusting the amount to your preferred level of ginger flavour and sweetness. Give the cocktail a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.  

Deck the halls: 19 Best Vodka Christmas Cocktails

10. Pomegranate Elderflower Spritzer

Pomegranates, sparkles, and flowery goodness? Yes, please! In a glass, combine 60 ml pomegranate juice and 30 ml elderflower liqueur. Fill the glass with ice cubes and top it off with 120 ml sparkling water for a light and effervescent touch. Gently stir to harmonise the flavours. Garnish your Pomegranate Elderflower Spritzer with fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of pomegranate arils. 

More Spritzes this way: 9 Spritz Cocktails to Sip On this Summer 

11. Pomegranate Whiskey Sour

Once you’ve tried a Whiskey Sour with egg white, it opens the door to a whole new world of silky beverages. This includes the delicate Pomegranate Whiskey Sour. In a cocktail shaker, combine 60 ml of whiskey, 30 ml pomegranate juice, 20 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice, 20 ml sugar syrup, and 1 egg white. Dry shake without ice first, and then fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds to emulsify the egg white and create a frothy texture. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, and serve. 

Learn more: 18 Grenadine Cocktails to Try in 2024

12. Pomegranate Rosé Paloma

We love a pretty Paloma, and its Mediterranean cousin, the Pomegranate Rosé Paloma, is just as delightful. Start by filling a wine glass with ice. Pour 20 ml pomegranate juice over the ice, followed by 90 ml of premium grapefruit soda. Add 120 ml sparkling rosé wine to the glass. Gently stir the ingredients to combine. For an elegant touch, garnish your spritzer with a slice of grapefruit and a sprig of fresh mint or rosemary. 

Also see: 10 Playful Paloma Variations for Picture-Perfect Sipping

How to make fresh pomegranate juice

Follow these simple steps to make fresh pomegranate juice at home:

1. 1. Cut a fresh pomegranate in half.
   2. Hold the halved pomegranate over a bowl and tap the back with a wooden spoon until the seeds fall out.
   3. Once you’ve managed to get all the seeds out, blitz in a blender until smooth.
   4. Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve to remove the pulp.
   5. Serve or store your fresh pomegranate juice, ready to use in your cocktails.

Fresh pomegranate juice vs bottled

When it comes to pomegranate juice, there are two main ways to enjoy it: bottled or freshly squeezed. Both have their own unique benefits, but which one is right for you? Here are a few pros and cons to help you decide: 

Pros of fresh pomegranate juice

• Freshness and flavour. Freshly squeezed pomegranate juice offers a vibrant and intense flavour that captures the natural essence of the fruit. It has a distinct freshness that can be very enjoyable. 
• Nutritional value. Freshly squeezed juice retains more of the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants present in pomegranates. It is known to be rich in vitamin C, potassium, and other beneficial compounds that can support overall health (if you drink it without any added alcohol.) 
• Customisation. When you make your own fresh juice, you have the flexibility to adjust the sweetness and tartness levels according to your taste preferences. You can also mix it with other fruits or add herbs to create unique flavour combinations. 

Cons of fresh pomegranate juice

• Seasonal availability. Pomegranates have a specific growing season, and fresh ones may not be readily available year-round.
• Time and effort. Squeezing fresh pomegranates to extract the juice can be time-consuming and require some effort. It involves removing the seeds and then pressing or juicing them to obtain the liquid. 

Pros of bottled pomegranate juice

• Convenience. Bottled pomegranate juice offers convenience and accessibility. It is readily available in stores and can be consumed on the go without any preparation time. 
• Extended shelf life. Bottled juices typically have a longer shelf life compared to fresh juice, thanks to pasteurisation and other preservation methods. This allows you to store them for longer periods without worrying about spoilage. 
• Consistency. Commercially bottled juices are often produced using standardised processes, ensuring a consistent taste profile with each purchase. 

Cons of bottled pomegranate juice

• Processing and additives. Bottled pomegranate juices may undergo processing methods that can diminish their nutritional value. They might also contain additives like preservatives, sweeteners, or artificial flavours. 
• Flavor variation. The taste of bottled pomegranate juice might differ from fresh juice due to processing and storage methods. Some people may find the flavour less vibrant or slightly altered. 
• Cost. Bottled pomegranate juice can be more expensive compared to fresh pomegranates, especially if you consume it regularly. 

Make pomegranates your go-to holiday cocktail ingredient

Pomegranates are the ultimate holiday cocktail ingredient. Their jewel-like seeds and deep red colour add a festive flair to any drink, making them a go-to during the winter months when they’re in season. Plus, the tart-sweet balance pairs perfectly with the rich, warm flavours often used in holiday cocktails. To give your drinks an extra touch of holiday cheer, garnish with a few pomegranate seeds and a sprig of rosemary for a fresh, seasonal look.

Creative ways to garnish pomegranate cocktails

Here are some fun and easy garnish ideas to elevate your pomegranate cocktails:

• Sprinkle a few fresh pomegranate seeds into the drink for a pop of colour and a juicy burst of flavour.
• Add a sprig of fresh mint to give your cocktail a fragrant, refreshing touch.
• Twist a peel of lemon or orange over the glass for a bright, zesty finish.
• Dip the rim of your glass in sugar for a festive, sparkling look and sweet taste to balance out the pomegranate’s tartness.
• Add edible flowers for a pop of colour and a pretty finish.

So, which pomegranate cocktail do you think you’ll try first? Tag us in your photos when you share your creations on Instagram, and remember to sign up for our newsletter to get fresh drinkspiration delivered straight to your inbox. In the meantime, there are more amazing cocktail recipes waiting on the SKYY Vodka, Bulldog Gin, and Wild Turkey Bourbon websites.