Winter is the perfect time to cosy up with a hot drink and enjoy the festive spirit. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Irish drink, a global classic, or a creative twist, we have you covered with some of the best winter cocktails and beverages to warm your soul.


Traditional Irish Drinks

Ireland is known for its rich and diverse drinking culture, and winter is no exception. Here are some of the most popular Irish drinks that you can make at home with ingredients from the Irish Drink Shop.


Hot Irish Whiskey


The classic hot Irish whiskey, also known as a “hot toddy”, is simplicity and warmth in a glass. Made with smooth Irish whiskey, a hint of brown sugar, and a slice of lemon studded with cloves, it’s a drink that not only warms the body but also the spirit.

It’s also a great remedy for a cold or a sore throat, as well as a delicious way to warm up on a chilly night.

What you need to make an Irish hot whiskey:

  • 50 ml of Irish whiskey (we recommend Powers or Jameson )
  • 150 ml of boiling water
  • 1 lemon slice
  • 2 cloves
  • 1 teaspoon of honey

To prepare, simply pour the whiskey into a heatproof glass, add the honey, and stir. Then, add the boiling water and stir again. Finally, stud the lemon slice with the cloves and add it to the glass. Enjoy your hot whiskey while it’s still hot.

Irish Coffee

Irish coffee is another classic Irish drink that combines coffee with Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and a layer of gently whipped cream. Each sip is a perfect balance of bitter and sweet, topped with the smoothness of cream and it’s a perfect after-dinner drink or a midday treat.

What you need to make Irish coffee:

  • 50 ml of Irish whiskey (we recommend Powers or Jameson )
  • 150 ml of hot black coffee
  • 2 teaspoons of brown sugar
  • 50 ml of whipped cream

To prepare, first warm a glass with some hot water and then discard the water. Then, add the whiskey and the sugar to the glass and stir. Next, pour the hot coffee over the whiskey and sugar mixture and stir again. Finally, gently spoon the whipped cream over the coffee and serve. Do not stir the cream - it should float on top of the coffee.

Global Winter Drinks

Feeling adventurous? Why not try some of the winter drinks from around the world! Here are some of the most popular ones that you can easily make at home.

Mulled Wine

Mulled Wine, a staple in European Christmas markets, is a mouth-watering mix of red wine simmered with a melody of spices like cinnamon, star anise, and cloves, sweetened with a dash of honey or sugar.

It’s a festive, aromatic drink that can be customised to suit all types of tastes and preferences.

To make mulled wine, you’ll need:

  • 750 ml of red wine (we recommend a dry and fruity wine like Merlot or Shiraz)
  • 100 ml of orange juice
  • 50 ml of brandy (optional)
  • 1 sliced orange
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 4 cloves
  • 2 star anise
  • 4 tablespoons of sugar

To prepare, first pour the wine, orange juice, and brandy into a large saucepan and bring to a simmer over low heat. Then, add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and sugar and stir. Simmer the mixture for about 15 minutes, or until the sugar dissolves and the flavours infuse. Do not boil the wine, as it will evaporate the alcohol. Serve the mulled wine hot, with some extra orange slices and cinnamon sticks if desired.

Eggnog

Eggnog is a creamy, frothy drink that originated in England and became so popular that it's now the number one winter drink in North America. It’s made with eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and spices, and often infused with rum, brandy, or whiskey.

To make eggnog, you’ll need:

  • 6 eggs
  • 150 g of sugar
  • 500 ml of milk
  • 250 ml of cream
  • 150 ml of rum, brandy, or whiskey (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon

To prepare, first whisk the egg yolks and half of the sugar in a large bowl until pale and fluffy. Then, whisk in the milk, cream, and alcohol. Next, whisk the egg whites and the remaining sugar in another bowl until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture and stir well. Sprinkle the nutmeg and cinnamon over the eggnog and enjoy!

Baileys Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is a universal favourite that can be enjoyed by anyone, anytime. It’s a simple but decadent drink that can be made with milk, Irish cream, chocolate, and sugar. You can also add some marshmallows, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.

To make Baileys hot chocolate, you’ll need:

  • 500 ml of milk
  • 100 ml of Baileys Irish cream
  • 150 g of dark chocolate, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons of sugar
  • A pinch of salt

To prepare, first heat the milk and cream in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming. Then, add the chocolate, sugar, and salt and whisk until smooth and melted. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and finish with your choice of toppings.


Spiced Apple Cider

Spiced Apple Cider is a great alternative to mulled wine, combining the natural sweetness of apples with warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s not only delicious but also offers health benefits, such as boosting immunity during the cold season.

To make spiced apple cider, you’ll need:

To prepare, first pour the apple juice into a large pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Then, reduce the heat and add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and honey. Simmer the mixture for about 20 minutes, or until the flavours infuse. Strain the cider and serve hot, with some extra cinnamon sticks.

Creative Winter Warming Drinks

If you’re feeling creative, you can also try some of the following twists on the most popular classic winter warming drinks.

Hot Buttered Rum

Hot buttered rum is a rich and decadent drink that is made with rum, butter, brown sugar, and spices. It’s a traditional drink in the US, but you can also make it with Irish whiskey for an Irish twist.

To make hot buttered rum, you’ll need:

To prepare, first melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Then, add the brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt and stir until well combined. Next, pour the whiskey into a heatproof glass and add the butter mixture. Stir well and then add the boiling water. Stir again and serve. Enjoy your hot buttered rum while it’s still hot!

White Chocolate Peppermint Latte

White chocolate peppermint latte is a festive and sweet drink that is made with espresso, milk, white chocolate, and peppermint. It’s a great way to enjoy a coffee with a holiday twist.

To make white chocolate peppermint latte, you’ll need:

To prepare, first heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming. Then, add the white chocolate liquer and creme de menthe and whisk until smooth and melted. Next, pour the espresso into a large mug and then pour the milk mixture over it. Stir well and then top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.

Conclusion

Winter is a wonderful season to enjoy some of the best drinks that can warm your soul and lift your mood. Whether you prefer a traditional Irish drink, a global classic, or a creative twist, you can always find something to suit your taste and occasion.


You can also make these drinks at home with ingredients and accessories from the Irish Drink Shop, your one-stop destination for all your drinking needs. Visit our website today and discover our huge range of alcohol, gifts, and offers.