It might seem like winter has already arrived for some people and even for those of us lucky enough to still enjoy a mild or sunny day time is short, make no mistake winter will soon arrive. And when it does most people will be sticking to their classic hot drinks won’t they?
But let’s be honest most people won’t want to order tea or coffee when they go out for drinks with friends will they? So, what drinks should you get this winter? Well, there are actually quite a few beverages that make great Winter drinks let’s take a look at some of the best choices in more detail, shall we?
Eggnog
OK let’s start with a festive classic Eggnog only comes out near Christmas so you can be sure to see it on Winter menus. But should you try Eggnog? Well, it’s a sweet and traditional choice and a great way to warm yourself up during the Winter months.
However, it is a thick drink and one glass will usually last you quite a while. Eggnog might not be to everyone’s taste but I think it’s worth trying and will definitely do its job in keeping you warm. Eggnog is traditionally made with alcohol often Rum, however, some pubs might offer a non-alcoholic version as well.
Sidecar Cocktail
You’ll find plenty of cocktails available around the Winter months but one of the best Winter warmers is the Sidecar. A Sidecar cocktail can be made in a number of ways but they traditionally have Brandy and lemon juice in them.
They pack quite the punch and are a great choice for people looking for a hybrid of flavours. Alcohol-free and low-alcohol versions are available but less common however since low-alcohol drinks are becoming more popular they could certainly be more widely seen on Winter drink’s menus this year.
Hot Toddy
The classic Hot Toddy can come in a number of different variants although it will usually have whisky, honey, lemon, cinnamon, and cloves. Whisky is what is going to give this traditional “cure-all” drink it’s kick and warmth when it comes to the Winter but non-alcoholic versions are available as well.
A Hot Toddy can be a surprisingly sweet drink although the dryness of the Whisky does mix with it well. Yes it might seem like ordering a Hot Toddy at a pub or bar would be a bit strange but they are actually quite common especially around Winter. Every place will probably have its own twist on the recipe as well.
Peppermint Schnapps
Peppermints (well candy canes) are a Christmas tradition and that means you will see plenty of them around the Winter. So, minty-style beverages are popular around the Winter as well and while they won’t warm you up like some drinks they are cool and refreshing. Peppermint Schnapps is actually quite high in alcohol when compared to some other spirits but they make a great choice for a Winter cocktail.
Alcohol-free or low-alcohol variants are available but they likely won’t capture the same fragrance or flavour in most cases. Although you can find alternative minty beverages that are alcohol-free as well. Peppermint Schnapps is also one of the more traditional choices when it comes to Winter drinks and they offer a surprising punch.
Tom and Jerry Cocktail
Well, you have to give this cocktail credit its name certainly gets your attention and it looks great! A Tom and Jerry cocktail traditionally features rum, brandy, hot milk, and eggs. There will usually be a sprinkle of chocolate on top as well. A Tom and Jerry cocktail is very sweet but with a nice warm flavour and smooth texture.
It’s a classic winter cocktail that is very popular in the UK and non-alcoholic and low-alcohol versions are also available. The Tom and Jerry cocktail is a popular alternative to Eggnog and while it might be similar in some respects it does offer its own distinctive flavour and fragrance.
So, that is five of the most popular Winter drinks to try this year! Whether you want to go for an alcoholic, low-alcohol or completely alcohol-free beverage you have plenty of choices. So, don’t settle for the standard tea or coffee there are some wondrous Winter drinks to try.