During the winter months when the temperature drops, one of our favourite ways to warm up is with a delicious hot drink in hand. From Hot Toddies to Spiced Negronis, there are plenty of warm cocktails that can beat the chill.
Here, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best winter cocktails that are guaranteed to keep you feeling warm and toasty this season.
1. Espresso Martini
Rich, robust and a winner for every coffee lover, the classic Espresso Martini is a trendy, thoroughly indulgent cocktail. Made with vodka, coffee liqueur and a dash of espresso, it’s truly iconic and one of the most ordered cocktails in the world. Although this is typically a cold cocktail, it can be warmed by using freshly brewed espresso and even a splash of hot milk. Rich, robust and a winner for every coffee lover; enjoy this winter vodka cocktail either as an appetiser or for a caffeine boost after dinner.
2. Old Fashioned
Dark, delicious and made for sipping by the fire, the Old Fashioned has been one of the world’s most popular cocktails for over 200 years, as well as one of our favourite winter cocktails and for good reason. With an irresistible blend of whiskey, simple syrup and aromatic bitters, it follows an unbeatable cocktail formula. We’ve also added a dash of orange bitters to our premixed cocktail to bring you the feel of winter in a glass that will instantly warm you up from the inside out.
3. Manhattan
Combining the warmth of whiskey, with the sweetness of vermouth and a twist of bitters, the Manhattan cocktail is the perfect drink to enjoy after dinner as you unwind for the evening. Our exclusive Christmas in Manhattan cocktail also includes soft chocolate notes for a beautifully smooth take on a classic that brings a magical festive feel - making it one of the best cold weather drinks.
4. Brown Gold
There’s nothing more comforting than our warm and rich signature Brown Gold cocktail. Our master mixologist, Patrick Pistolesi, was Inspired by an evening on a Mediterranean beach, and wanted to capture the moment in a cocktail. Combining bourbon, vanilla liqueur, coffee liqueur, citric acid and liquid sugar, the Brown Gold is smooth and aromatic, and we’re certain every whiskey fan will adore its intense flavours.
5. Apple Rum Punch
The ultimate rum cocktail for winter. This drink feels synonymous with Christmas, as the humble apple was originally used as a Christmas tree decoration, before going on to become a much-loved festive flavour. This makes it perfect for inclusion in your selection of winter cocktail recipes. And, when these apple flavours are paired with spiced rum, red vermouth and festive spices, you’re left with a deliciously decadent, full-bodied Apple Rum Punch cocktail.
6. Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a unique cocktail that fits in well with the festive period and will easily warm up the winter months. With its bold flavours and bright colour, it’s a sophisticated take on the classic Negroni. The Boulevardier blends the rich warmth of bourbon with vermouth, Campari and bitters for a truly unforgettable drink.
7. Spiced Negroni
Classed as the king of Italian Campari cocktails, our award-winning Negroni has been given a wonderfully festive twist by Patrick Pistolesi. Nothing says Christmas quite like the aroma of exotic spices in the air. Our Spiced Negroni combines gin, red vermouth and Campari with Pimento Dram bitters. This blend introduces scents of clove, nutmeg and cinnamon - ideal for those who enjoy winter gin cocktails. This warm-feeling drink is made to be sipped whilst sitting by the glow of the fire and the twinkling of Christmas lights. If you love drinks with a little added kick, check out our list of the best spicy cocktails.
8. Christmas Margarita
Do you dream of lounging on a beach over the Christmas holiday with a tart and tangy Margarita in hand? Well, Patrick Pistolesi has created a delightful Christmas Margarita to bring a touch of winter warmth to a summer essential. Marrying tequila with spiced ginger and crisp apple liqueurs, along with sweet agave syrup, this cocktail is fresh yet warming and perfect to savour. Enjoy the boldest of classic winter cocktails as an after-dinner treat.
9. Mulled Wine
Typically served around European Christmas markets, a glass of deliciously fruity Mulled Wine is perhaps the most traditional of our warm winter cocktails. Made using red wine, fresh oranges, cinnamon, mulling spices and a touch of sugar, or even maple syrup, this cosy drink will also fill your home with sweet, festive aromas to get everyone feeling Christmassy.
10. Hot Toddy
One of the most popular warm alcoholic drinks for winter, a Hot Toddy combines whiskey, honey, lemon, cinnamon, and cloves topped up with boiling water for a warm and soothing cocktail. This light, hydrating beverage is great to serve at Christmas parties or to enjoy alone to get in the festive mood as a lovely nightcap.
Those are our picks for the top 10 warm winter cocktails. Are there any of your favourite seasonal cocktails we’ve missed? See if they appear on our list of the Best Autumn Cocktails.
Looking for a gift for the cocktail lover in your life? Our limited edition Christmas Cocktails will bring warmth and festive joy to everyone.
If you’re planning on hosting a Christmas dinner party this year, take a look at our top tips to ensure success.
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