Forget snuggling under a blanket with a cup of tea—this winter, it’s all about raising the bar on your cocktail game. We’re talking about sipping on some seriously sexy craft cocktails, each one featuring the finest Aussie spirits that’ll make you feel like you’re sitting by a roaring fire, even if you’re just huddled by a heater. From tropical dreams to festive delights, these six cocktails are designed to warm you up and get you buzzing. So grab your shaker, and let’s get mixing—your taste buds are in for a wild ride.
1. Spiced Hot Toddy
Seppeltsfield Rd Distillers
For those looking for a hot drink that’s more sophisticated than a mug of cocoa, the Spiced Hot Toddy is your go-to. This cosy cocktail is a heartwarming mix of flavours.
Ingredients:
- 30ml Musician's Cut Gin
- 120ml spiced tea mix (with cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise)
- A slice of lemon
- 15ml ginger syrup
Method:
- Simmer the lemon and spiced tea mix.
- Pour into a mug and add the ginger syrup and gin.
- Stir and garnish with lemon halves and dried orange.
This drink is a soothing mix of comforting flavours to warm you up.
2. Caba Colada
Cabarita Spirits
Who says you can’t have a taste of the tropics when it’s freezing outside? The Caba Colada is the quintessential holiday cocktail, perfect for those dreaming of warmer days.
Ingredients:
- 45ml Soltera Rum Blanco
- 120ml pineapple juice
- 30ml coconut cream (Coco Lopez, if you’re fancy)
- A squeeze of fresh lime
Method:
- Add a handful of ice to a cocktail shaker with all the ingredients.
- Shake and then strain into your favourite glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge or maraschino cherry.
It’s like a beach holiday in a glass, minus the sunburn.
3. Tipsy Gingerbread Man
Bass & Flinders
Nothing screams winter comfort like the taste of gingerbread, and this Tipsy Gingerbread Man cocktail is the perfect blend of festive cheer and creamy indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 45ml Bass & Flinders Spiced Christmas Brandy
- 15ml ginger liqueur
- 20ml gingerbread syrup
- 20ml heavy cream
Method:
- In a cocktail shaker, add all ingredients and shake well.
- Double strain into a Nick & Nora glass.
- Garnish with a piece of candied ginger.
This is holiday spirit in a glass, ideal for a cosy night in.
4. Vietnamese Iced Coffee
Wolf Lane Distillery
If you’re in need of a caffeine kick but want to keep things a bit adventurous, the Vietnamese Iced Coffee is your answer.
Ingredients:
- 45ml of Annee’s Vietnamese Coffee Liqueur
- 120ml of milk
- Marshmallow for garnish
Method:
- Just pour the liqueur and milk over ice.
- Garnish with a marshmallow.
This drink is a sweet, cooling treat that will still keep you warm from the inside out.
5. Sweet Manhattan
Archie Rose Distilling Co.
A classic cocktail with a sweet twist, the Sweet Manhattan is perfect for those who like their drinks strong and sophisticated.
Ingredients:
- 45ml of Good(e) Whisk(e)y
- 20ml of sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes of bitters
- Orange zest or maraschino cherry for garnish
Method:
- Stir all ingredients with ice.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with an orange zest or a maraschino cherry.
It’s a smooth and slightly sweet concoction that’s perfect for sipping by the fire.
6. Christmas Flip
Prohibition Liquor Co.
When it comes to festive indulgence, the Christmas Flip is an absolute must-try.
Ingredients:
- 60ml Prohibition Christmas Gin
- 15ml maple syrup
- 1 whole egg
- Dash of bitters (optional)
- Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish
Method:
- Add ingredients to a cocktail shaker without ice and shake until a silky head forms.
- Add ice and shake until chilled.
- F ine strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
This rich, creamy delight is essentially Christmas in a glass.
So there you have it - six stellar cocktails to make your winter nights a little warmer, and a lot more enjoyable. Each of these drinks brings a unique flavour and a touch of Aussie craftsmanship to your glass. Try them all and find your new favourite winter warmer. Stay toasty!