Winter is the perfect time for cozy drinks that warm the body and soul. Here are 4 easy and festive winter cocktails recommended by top mixologists in India.
1. Irish Rum Coffee
A bold and warming twist on classic Irish coffee, made with aged rum, strong coffee, and whipped cream topped with nutmeg. Sweeten with jaggery for a richer flavour.
Ingredients:
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Coffee
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Aged rum or whisky
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Jaggery syrup/powder
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Hot water
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Fresh cream + vanilla
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Nutmeg
2. Buttered Beer
Inspired by Harry Potter, this festive drink combines hot wheat beer with a spiced butter syrup. It tastes like butterscotch and shortbread—Christmas in a glass!
Ingredients:
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Rum, cinnamon, nutmeg, butter, caramel syrup, hazelnut syrup, vanilla
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Wheat beer
How to make:
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Make spiced butter syrup by simmering ingredients for 30 mins, then cool.
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Boil wheat beer until reduced by 1/4.
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Mix hot beer with butter syrup.
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Garnish with a shortbread or butter biscuit.
3. Xmas XO
A festive, Manhattan-style cocktail inspired by plum cake and leftover red wine. Simple, practical, and perfect for holiday hosting.
Ingredients:
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Brandy or XO
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Sweet vermouth (optional)
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Red wine soaked with plum cake
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Tutti-frutti cherry
How to make:
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Soak plum cake pieces in red wine overnight.
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Strain the liquid using a coffee filter.
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Mix brandy, vermouth, and plum cake wine with ice.
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Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a cherry.
4. Crimson Hug
A rich, cozy cocktail inspired by mulled wine. Combines whisky, red wine, winter spices, and stone fruits for warmth without heaviness.
Ingredients:
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Single malt whisky
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Red wine
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Stone fruits (peach or apricot)
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Cinnamon, clove, star anise
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Honey or jaggery syrup
How to make:
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Gently warm red wine with spices and stone fruit (don’t boil).
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Strain into a heatproof glass and add whisky.
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Sweeten with honey or jaggery if needed.