The Rise of Winter Cocktails: A Seasonal Indulgence

The tradition of adding ice to alcoholic beverages began in the first half of the 19th century, marking a shift from cocktails as medicinal shots to epicurean experiences, according to historian David Wondrich. This evolution has led to a contemporary appreciation for hot cocktails during winter months, which serve as comforting alternatives to chilled drinks. Ivy Mix, co-owner of the Brooklyn bar Whoopsie Daisy, emphasizes the creative potential of hot cocktails, stating, “It’s a totally different way of thinking about flavors — heat inherently creates a flavor explosion.”

New York Times

As winter approaches, various bars and cocktail enthusiasts are crafting unique drinks that embody the season's warmth. Notable examples include:

A toast to winter! t2 draws up a list of some must-try winter cocktails

• Glou Chaud: A mulled wine variant featuring spices, orange rounds, and raspberry eau de vie, which preserves the fruit's vibrancy during distillation.

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• Warm Hug: A comforting blend of brandy, winter spices, and African rose tea-infused red wine, available at Little Bit Sober.

A toast to winter! t2 draws up a list of some must-try winter cocktails

• Heaven on Earth: A modern twist on the Old Fashioned, combining Camikara rum, Kashmiri kahwa syrup, and cinnamon at Olterra.

A toast to winter! t2 draws up a list of some must-try winter cocktails

• Ginger Bells: A festive cocktail made with vodka, gingerbread syrup, and lime juice, served at Olive Cafe & Bar.

A toast to winter! t2 draws up a list of some must-try winter cocktails

Other creative concoctions include Masala Chai, which combines gin, tequila, and spiced masala tea, and Red Velvet Mulled Gin, a sophisticated fusion of botanical gin and rich red wine.

A toast to winter! t2 draws up a list of some must-try winter cocktails

Mulled wine has historical roots in various cultures, with ancient Greeks and Romans creating spiced wine mixtures as a remedy for unsafe drinking water. The term "mulled" derives from the Latin word "mel," meaning honey, reflecting the drink's sweet and spiced nature. This tradition continues today, with variations like Swedish glögg and German glühwein being popular in winter festivities.

New York Times

While hot cocktails are celebrated for their comforting qualities, some critics argue that they may not appeal to all palates, particularly those who prefer traditional cold cocktails. Additionally, the trend of using seasonal ingredients raises questions about sustainability and sourcing practices in the cocktail industry.

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Mix notes the importance of using high-quality ingredients, stating, “I think eaux de vie are, in their essence, the purest representations of what they’re made from.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend among bartenders to prioritize authenticity and flavor in their seasonal offerings.

New York Times

As the winter season progresses, cocktail bars are likely to continue innovating, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques to create warming drinks that resonate with patrons. The ongoing popularity of winter cocktails suggests a growing trend towards indulgent, flavor-rich experiences during the colder months.

A toast to winter! t2 draws up a list of some must-try winter cocktails

• “It’s a totally different way of thinking about flavors — heat inherently creates a flavor explosion.” — Ivy Mix, Co-owner, Whoopsie Daisy

New York Times

• “I think eaux de vie are, in their essence, the purest representations of what they’re made from,” — Ivy Mix, Co-owner, Whoopsie Daisy

New York Times