glass of cocktail on a table with other drinks

10 Warm Winter Cocktails To Cozy Up To

During the winter months when the temperature drops, one of our favorite ways to warm up is with a delicious hot drink. From Hot Toddies to Negronis, there are plenty of warm cocktails that can help you beat the chill.

Here, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best winter drinks, guaranteed to keep you feeling warm and toasty this season.

1. Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini is a trendy, thoroughly indulgent cocktail. Made with vodka, coffee liqueur and a dash of espresso, it’s truly iconic and one of the most ordered cocktails in the world. Although this is typically a cold cocktail, it can be served warm by using freshly brewed espresso and even a splash of hot milk. It’s rich, robust and a winner for every coffee lover; enjoy this winter vodka cocktail either as an appetizer or for a caffeine boost after dinner. 

Espresso Martini

 

2. Old Fashioned

Dark, delicious and made for sipping by the fire, the Old Fashioned has been one of the world’s most popular cocktails for over 200 years, as well as one of our favorite winter cocktails. It follows an unbeatable cocktail formula, with an irresistible blend of whiskey, simple syrup and aromatic bitters. We’ve also added a dash of orange bitters to our premixed cocktail to bring you the feel of winter in a glass.

3. Manhattan

Combining the warmth of whiskey with the sweetness of vermouth and a twist of bitters, the Manhattan is one of the best winter cocktails warm up with after dinner. Serve it alongside a few pieces of dark chocolate for a magical festive feel. 

christmas in manhattan ready made nio cocktail poured in glass

 

4. Whiskey Sour

There’s nothing more comforting than our warm and rich signature Whiskey Sour cocktail. Combining smooth bourbon, tangy lemon juice and a dash of liquid sugar, the Whiskey Sour is balanced and aromatic, and we’re certain every whiskey fan will adore its sweet-yet-tart flavors.

5. Apple Rum Punch

Meet the ultimate rum cocktail for winter. This drink feels synonymous with Christmas, as the humble apple was originally used as a Christmas tree decoration before going on to become a much-loved festive flavor.

This makes it perfect for inclusion in your selection of winter cocktail recipes. And, when these apple flavors are paired with spiced rum, red vermouth and festive spices, you’re left with a deliciously decadent, full-bodied Apple Rum Punch cocktail.

nio apple rum punch ready made cocktail poured in glass

6. Boulevardier

The Boulevardier is a unique cocktail that fits in well with the festive period and will easily warm up the winter months. With its bold flavors and bright color, it’s a sophisticated take on the classic Negroni. The Boulevardier blends the rich warmth of bourbon with vermouth, Campari and bitters for a truly unforgettable drink. 

7. Negroni

Classified as the king of Italian Campari cocktails, our award-winning Negroni is perfect to enjoy in the chillier months. Featuring a balanced, sweet-and-sour blend of gin, red vermouth, and aromatic bitters, this classic drink is ideal for those who enjoy winter gin cocktails. Sip it while admiring the glow of a fire and the twinkling of Christmas lights. 

Spiced Negroni

 

8. Christmas Margarita

Do you dream of lounging on a beach over Christmas with a tart and tangy Margarita in your hand? Give our refreshing Tommy’s Margarita a festive twist by adding a splash of cranberry juice and garnishing your glass with a slice of candied ginger.

Fresh, warming and perfect to savor, this bold take on a classic cocktail makes for the perfect after-dinner treat. If you love drinks with a little added kick, check out our list of the best spicy cocktails.

9. Mulled Wine

Typically served around European Christmas markets, a glass of deliciously fruity Mulled Wine is perhaps the most traditional of our warm winter cocktails. It’s made using red wine, fresh oranges, cinnamon, mulling spices and a touch of sugar, or even maple syrup, making for a cozy drink that will fill your home with sweet, festive aromas and get everyone feeling Christmassy.

Mulled Wine

 

10. Hot Toddy

One of the most popular warm winter alcohol drinks, a Hot Toddy combines whiskey, honey, lemon, cinnamon and cloves and is topped with boiling water for a warm and soothing cocktail. This light, hydrating beverage is great to serve at Christmas parties or to enjoy alone as a nightcap to get in the festive mood.

Those are our picks for the top 10 warm winter cocktails. Are there any of your favorite seasonal cocktails we’ve missed? See if they appear on our list of the Best Autumn Cocktails

If you’re planning on serving winter cocktails at a Christmas dinner party this year, take a look at our top hosting tips to ensure success.