Amber Dias pours out some sizzling cocktails that will warm you up this season.
The weather outside is cooler, chillier, maybe even freezing, it depends on where you are. Regardless, it’s the time of year that has almost everyone looking to slow down and savour a sip of something that oozes warmth and comfort. And a deliciously warm cocktail is a treat your senses will thank you for.
Heat Things Up
Heated elixirs are old favourites, classics some would say, like the ever popular Hot Toddy or Irish Coffee. There are also new innovative creations from mixologists that are winning favour with connoisseurs of the good life. A carefully crafted blend of premium spirits and artfully chosen ingredients, warm cocktails offer a symphony of flavours that delight the palate.
The allure of warm cocktails lies in the way they play with and showcase the rich flavours that spirits exude. Each sip highlights the nuances of the liquor. This coupled with the interplay of artisanal ingredients creates an indulgent experience that is cosy and intimate.
Warm Cocktails To Indulge In
Buttered Rum
Hot Buttered Rum has a long history and has been around since the 1650s, but continues to be a popular drink of choice even today. A delicious blend of spices, dark rum and butter that will warm you to your toes.
What’s in it?
Dark rum, boiling water, salted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice.
Spiked Hot Chocolate
Hot Chocolate is a go-to drink for taking the chill off, made all the better when it has a little kick. Rich, creamy and indulgent, it ticks all the boxes for a cosy drink and a hint of rum, bourbon or peppermint schnapps amplifies the intensity perfectly and offers a delicious complexity of flavour.
What’s in it?
Cocoa powder, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, chocolate, rum or bourbon or peppermint schnapps or Irish cream.
Irish Coffee
A decadent combination of whiskey and coffee, Irish Coffee is a classic warm cocktail. Described as soul warming, it artfully blends bitter and buttery notes with just a touch of sweetness. While the classic recipe is pretty straightforward, there are numerous variations that play with flavour additions for the more adventurous palate.
What’s in it?
Irish whiskey, coffee and whipped cream.
Hot Toddy
Another classic, Hot Toddy has long since been looked to as a cure for colds. A herbal concoction, blended with whiskey, rum or brandy, it puts a warmth in your chest that soothes and relaxes. Not all that popular as an entertaining cocktail, it’s the ideal choice to enjoy on a quiet night alone.
What’s in it?
Whiskey, lemon, honey, hot water or tea.
Eggnog
A festive concoction that has its lovers and haters, Eggnog isn’t for everyone. Rich, creamy and a little eggy, it can be served warm or cold. The former offers a particularly delightful play on flavours with the spices being more pronounced, while the sweetness makes a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth.
What’s in it?
Eggs, sugar, whipping cream, milk, vanilla extract, nutmeg, salt, cinnamon, bourbon or brandy or whiskey.
Autumn Chai Swizzle
A cup of chai is always welcome and it makes a dreamy cocktail too. The addition of Irish Cream – which replaces the milk – amplifies the creamy texture and gives this warm, spicy brew a delectable kick.
What’s in it?
Brewed Masala Chai, Irish Cream liqueur, sugar and a cinnamon stick.
Hot White Russian
Vodka lovers sing praises of the classic White Russian and are equally excited about its warmer avatar. A hint of caffeine is what makes this concoction so pleasurable, as it seamlessly blends with the base ingredients.
What’s in it?
Vodka, Kahlua, coffee and heavy cream.
Pull Up A Glass
Whether you’re relishing the chilly weather or lounging around with the temperature on your air conditioner turned all the way down, a warm cocktail hits the spot. They offer an explosion of flavours and aromas that tickle the senses and are a wonderful treat to share with guests, and, of course, indulge in on your own. It’s time to embrace the season and heat things up. Cheers!
More Warm Cocktails To Try…
Mulled Wine
Chipotle Apple Cider Margarita
Rum Forest Rum
Hot Rum Punch
Hot Apple Pie
Tom & Jerry
Spiced Cranberry Cocktail
Maple Ginger Hot Toddy
Gingerbread Warm Up
Angry Jolly Juice
