Our Favourite Hot Alcoholic Drinks

As winter draws in, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a hot alcoholic drink, whether by the fireside at home or in a cosy restaurant or bar.

From classic mulled wine to creamy Irish coffee, here’s a selection of favourite winter drinks that add a touch of indulgence to keep the cold at bay.

Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a staple of the winter season, perfect if you love the aroma of spices and a rich, fruity taste. Made with red wine, a mix of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, and a hint of citrus, it’s a drink that captures the spirit of Christmas markets and festive gatherings.

Many bars and restaurants offer their takes on mulled wine, sometimes adding a dash of brandy or a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra kick.

The beauty of mulled wine lies in its simplicity and versatility, with the option to customise it to your liking. A warm glass is a perfect choice for those looking for a comforting drink with a balance of sweetness and spice.

Hot Toddy

A hot toddy is often the drink of choice for those seeking something simple and soothing, especially when fighting off a winter cold.

Traditionally made with whisky, honey, lemon, and hot water, it has a gentle warmth and sweetness that makes it both comforting and restorative. Some bars and restaurants may add cloves or a cinnamon stick for extra flavour, giving it a spiced edge.

Whether enjoyed in a relaxed bar or made at home, a hot toddy is easy to prepare and can be tailored to taste by adjusting the whisky-to-honey ratio. This drink is especially popular for its light, refreshing quality, making it ideal for those who prefer a subtle warmth over stronger flavours.

Irish Coffee

For those who enjoy a rich, caffeinated treat, Irish coffee is a winter favourite that combines coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and a layer of cream.

It’s a drink that brings a kick of coffee with the smooth warmth of whiskey, topped off with a creamy finish. Perfect for sipping in a restaurant after a meal or as an afternoon pick-me-up, Irish coffee offers a satisfying blend of flavours that appeals to both coffee lovers and whiskey fans.

A good Irish coffee requires the right balance of ingredients and the perfect pour to achieve that iconic layer of cream on top. It’s a drink that feels indulgent without being overly heavy, making it ideal for colder days when you need a little extra warmth.

Mulled Cider

For a twist on traditional mulled wine, mulled cider offers a deliciously fruity alternative. Made with apple cider and a blend of warming spices, mulled cider is slightly lighter and sweeter than mulled wine but still provides that cosy, wintery feel. Bars and restaurants may add rum or brandy for extra warmth, creating a richer, more complex flavour profile.

Hot Buttered Rum

Hot buttered rum is a classic American drink that has gained popularity in the UK for its rich, buttery flavour. Made with dark rum, butter, brown sugar, and spices, this drink is both warming and indulgent, making it ideal for colder evenings.

The addition of butter gives the drink a smooth, creamy texture, which, combined with the spices, creates a decadent experience that’s perfect for sipping slowly.

Glühwein

Finally, Glühwein, the German cousin to mulled wine, is a favourite at winter markets and cosy bars alike. Typically made with red wine, citrus, and spices similar to mulled wine, Glühwein has a slightly different flavour profile, often including hints of vanilla and sometimes a splash of brandy.

It’s a warming drink with a festive touch, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of European flair in their winter beverages.