The Tasting Alliance team has rounded up their go-to drinks to enjoy during the winter months. From creamy classics to spiced delights, these beverages are more than just a treat for your taste buds—they’re a reflection of our favorite holiday traditions. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or unwinding by the fire, these drinks will make your winter moments even more memorable. Here is what the team answered to “What’s your favorite winter drink?”
Amanda B: Manhattans with Holiday Decorating
“In our family, the holiday season starts with my husband making his mother’s Italian meatball recipe while mixing up Manhattans with Luxardo cherries. This tradition comes to life as we decorate our Christmas tree together, creating the perfect pairing of hearty flavors and rich, warming cocktails.”
Mix a classic Manhattan with 2 oz Green River Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, 1 oz sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of bitters. Stir with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a Luxardo cherry.
Maddee: Hot Buttered Rum
“I’m going with a Hot Buttered Rum! One of the best I’ve ever had was at Smuggler’s Cove in San Francisco. It’s indulgent, rich, and tastes like a cozy hug in a mug.”
Suppose you can’t make it to San Francisco, cream together unsalted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Add 2 tablespoons of this mixture to a mug, pour in 1.5 oz Myers’s Original Dark Rum, and top with hot water. Stir well, and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Toby: The Classic Hot Toddy
“I tend to err on the side of the traditional with a good Hot Toddy. Some bourbon, a little honey, and lemon juice, mixed with some heat is the perfect beverage to enjoy by a roaring fire. Simple, comforting, and festive.”
Combine 1.5 oz George T. Stagg Straight Bourbon, 1 tbsp honey, and ½ tbsp fresh lemon juice in a mug. Top with hot water, stir and garnish with a lemon wheel and a cinnamon stick.
Annabelle: Apple Cider Old Fashioned
“I make an Apple Cider Old Fashioned every year, and it’s my favorite! Reduce apple cider with some apricot preserves to make a simple syrup, stir with quality whiskey, and add an orange peel and a cinnamon stick for garnish. Bonus points for grating fresh nutmeg on top!”
Chloe: Mulled Wine
“Mulled wine is my winter go-to. Not only is it a wonderful pairing for holiday dinners, but the preparation fills your kitchen with the loveliest festive aroma.”
In a saucepan, combine 1 bottle of Landon Winery Reserve Red Wine, ½ cup orange juice, ⅓ cup sugar, a sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Heat gently (do not boil) for 20 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with an orange slice or cinnamon stick.
Amanda H: Coquito
“Coquito is my winter favorite! This Puerto Rican classic is creamy, spiced, and the perfect crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings.”
Blend 1 can each of evaporated milk, condensed milk, and coconut milk with ½ cup Liberty & Plenty Distillery White Rum, 1 tsp vanilla, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Chill and serve in small glasses, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick.
Chelsea: Homemade Eggnog
“Eggnog for me! Real, made-from-scratch eggnog is a revelation. If you’ve never tried it, it’s a perfect encapsulation of holiday flavors in a creamy, steamy elixir that pairs beautifully with many spirit options. My favorite addition is wheated bourbon.”
Whisk together 4 egg yolks and ½ cup sugar until thick. Slowly add 2 cups milk and 1 cup heavy cream while whisking. Heat gently on the stove (do not boil), then cool. Stir in 1 cup 1797 Bourbon Sweet Wheat Wheated Bourbon. Chill and serve with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
These are just a few of our team’s favorite drinks to make the season bright. From our The Tasting Alliance family to yours, we wish you warmth, cheer, and plenty of delicious sips this winter!
