There's no denying the January blues - the Christmas break is over, work is back on, and the weather's usually pretty bleak. However, isn't that the perfect excuse to cheer things up a little with a winter cocktail?
From sweet apple to fragrant cinnamon, we've compiled a list of some of our favourite tipples to keep the winter chills at bay this year.
There's no denying the January blues - the Christmas break is over, work is back on, and the weather's usually pretty bleak. However, isn't that the perfect excuse to cheer things up a little with a winter cocktail? From sweet apple to fragrant cinnamon, we've compiled a list of some of our favourite tipples to keep the winter chills at bay this year.
For an indulgent and fruity kick, this drink is the ideal choice. Combining apple brandy with orange bitter, lemon juice, and the spicy Barolo Chinato, it's the perfect bittersweet drink with a rich flavour, which can be sweetened to the drinker's liking with a little double-strength Demerara simple syrup. Add a star anise pod for a drink that you can be proud to serve.
Sticking with the apple flavours, this Mela d'Alba is a fruity twist on a traditional Negroni. It's simple to make and packs a punch, making it ideal for those who want a quick yet delicious drink, or who aren't so confident with the art of cocktail making. Using the usual sweet vermouth and Campari, all you have to do is add a dash of apple brandy in replacement of gin. The apple brandy compliments the Campari's sweetness perfectly, and a twist of lemon makes a colourful garnish.
While the official party season may be over, there's always an excuse for getting your friends and family together. This punch makes a wonderful winter-warmer to keep spirits high in chilly weather. Combine chai tea with a delightfully smoky scotch to create your base, before adding a little sweetness with sherry, slight bitterness with lemon juice, and a touch of spice with Angostura bitters. A vanilla-cinnamon syrup creates a sweet, fragrant finish, while frozen cranberries and slices of oranges give this punch a touch of elegance.
For those of you who enjoy the craft of cocktail making, the success of this sweet and earthy drink is all in the preparation. Begin by roasting pears, allowing them to caramelise, before blending them with lemon juice for a sweet yet tangy puree. Add a dash of maple syrup and a fine bourbon, before letting your cocktails cool in the fridge. Finally, finish your drinks by pouring into a glass and topping with sparkling wine and sprinkling with a little ground clove. Fruity and punchy, the results are worth the effort!
Not too dissimilar from the summer favourite that is sangria, this cocktail harbours nutty tones lifted by rich caramel thanks to Madeira, a fortified wine. Keep things simple for this one, adding a splash of lemon juice and simple syrup before shaking. Garnish with a sprinkle of grated nutmeg which pairs wonderfully with the warm flavours of this drink.
If you’d like to test out some winter cocktails and delicate dishes, why not bring in the assistance of The White Label team to help organise an event to help shake off those winter blues? From product launches to formal gatherings, we’ll work alongside you to curate an event that’s exactly to your tastes and reflects your vision.
Start talking to our team today and let’s begin planning an event to kickstart 2019 in the right way.