As the cold sets in, there’s nothing better than cosying up with a steaming, delicious seasonal cocktail in hand. The rich, warming spices and fruits synonymous with winter are perfectly showcased in cocktails, whether you prefer a classic mulled wine or a cranberry martini with a twist.
For the Traditionalists
Mulled Wine
The quintessential winter warmer, mulled wine brings together red wine and fragrant spices like cinnamon, cloves and star anise. Simply simmer together with orange slices for a nostalgic, aromatic brew. For an extra kick, add a splash of brandy. Enjoy a hearty mugful whilst snuggled under a blanket. Pair with stilton cheese and oatcakes for the ultimate après-ski bites.
Hot Toddy
This soothing hot toddy is just the ticket when you’re feeling under the weather. Whisky blended with honey, lemon and hot water makes a comforting cold remedy. For extra spice, add a cinnamon stick or clove. Sip slowly and savour – toddies are meant to be lingered over by the fireside on a freezing evening. Serve in a traditional Scottish quaich for a proper cosy experience.
Spiced Cider
Take your standard cider up a notch by simmering with sliced apples, pears or cranberries and fragrant spices like cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. The Pickering’s Ginger variety adds extra zip. Ladle into mugs and garnish with apple and cinnamon sticks for a perfectly warming, fruity, not-too-sweet sip. Pairs perfectly with a slab of melty cheddar or tangy goat cheese.
For the Adventurous
Blackberry Bramble
Muddle fresh blackberries with sugar and lemon juice, then combine with gin and crushed ice for a fruit-forward wintery twist on the classic. Garnish with mint and orange for a pop of colour and freshness. Brambles pair nicely with anything chocolate – try some sourdough bread dipped in melted dark chocolate for dipping.
Cranberry Pear Martini
Bring some festive cheer to your holiday gatherings with this cranberry martini. Muddle fresh cranberries and rosemary, then shake with grey goose vodka, pear liqueur, lemon and ice. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with cranberries. Enjoy alongside smoked salmon blinis or brie en croute for an elegant seasonal bite.
Gingerbread Espresso Martini
For an indulgent winter twist, try this gingerbread espresso martini from expert mixologist Salvatore Calabrese. Shake espresso, vodka and coffee liqueur with gingerbread syrup and ice, then strain into a glass and top with whipped cream and grated ginger. A perfect ending to a heavy holiday meal – cut through the richness with a slice of cranberry and orange Christmas pudding.
Tips:
- Use seasonal fruits and spices like cranberries, pears, cinnamon, and ginger
- Make simple syrups to sweeten and add flavour
- Experiment with festive garnishes like rosemary, mint, orange, cranberries and pomegranate seeds
- Tailor your cocktail to the food pairing – sweet with puddings, herbaceous with savoury dishes
As the long, cold nights set in, gather round the fire with loved ones and indulge in these delicious winter cocktail recipes. The richness, spices and fruits are perfectly suited to fend off the chill and bring some seasonal magic, whether you curl up solo or host a whole family gathering. Get creative with your own flavour combinations and garnishes too – the possibilities this time of year are endlessly delicious. Chin chin!
Tags: mulled wine recipes, winter cocktails, spiced cider, hot toddy, cranberry martini, blackberry bramble, gingerbread cocktails