Despite being bundled up in layers of cozy knitwear, sometimes, it really is what’s on the inside that counts. Namely, a lip-smacking winter cocktail that will thaw you out in no time. 

Sure, you can sip a martini any time of year, but there’s something particularly pleasurable about a cocktail designed for the colder months. We’re talking warm, cinnamon varieties and deep flavours like allspice and whiskey. 

A far cry from spicy mulled wine and spiked hot chocolate, we’ve rounded up 4 cocktails that you may not have heard of before. Think a minty take on the James Bond classic and a brandy-infused Pimms concoction, this drink list proves that having a total meltdown isn’t always a bad thing. 

Winter, we’ve gotta say, it’s not all so bad after all. Plus: you can pick up all of the supplies you need at Aldi, Woolworths, Coles, Dan Murphy’s and Liquorland

1. Peppermint Martini 

Simple but effective, this refreshing Peppermint Martini only contains 3 ingredients and despite being on the sweet side, still has just as much of a kick as the classic. 

What you’ll need: 

• 1.5 oz vodka
• 1 tsp Peppermint Schnapps
• Peppermint lollies

Method: 

1. Step 1: Mix the vodka and peppermint schnapps with the ice into a shaker. 
2. Step 2: Shake and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. 
3. Step 3: Crush up the peppermint lollies and use them to garnish the rim of the glass.

2. Hot Toddy

There’s no better way to warm up than with a hot toddy. The combination of whisky, honey, lemon, cinnamon and cloves really packs a punch and is great for entertaining guests in winter.  A fireplace is optional but highly recommended.

What you’ll need:

• 50ml whisky
• 3 tsp honey
• 1 cinnamon stick, snapped in half
• 1 lemon, half juiced and half sliced
• 2 cloves

Method: 

1. Step 1: Whisk the whisky and honey together and split between 2 heatproof glasses. Add half of the cinnamon stick to each, then top up with 200ml boiling water.
2. Step 2: Add a splash of lemon juice to each, then taste and add more to your preference. Finish each with a slice of lemon, studded with a clove, and serve immediately.

3. Winter Pimms Punch 

Pimms  isn’t just for summer, just add some brandy and you have yourself a delicious winter treat. Super easy to make at home, this recipe shakes up the classic by switching out strawberries for cinnamon sticks and adding a splash of apple juice instead of lemonade. Here’s how to recreate it at home. 

What you’ll need:

• 500ml Pimm's
• 500ml brandy
• 1½ l apple juice
• ice
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• apple, sliced
• orange, sliced

Method:

1. Step 1: Combine the Pimm’s and brandy with the apple juice in a jug filled with ice.
2. Step 2: Add in the cinnamon sticks, sliced apple and orange.

4. Spiked Cinnamon Chai Lattes

This comforting drink will warm you up on a chilly day, or when you're halfway down a ski slope. An even sweeter alternative to a traditional Irish Coffee or Espresso Martini, it’s best for those who aren’t counting their sugar intake. Luckily enough though, you’ve still got a few months until beach season. 

What you’ll need:

• 2 tbs powdered sugar
• 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 3 oz hot coffee
• 2 oz chocolate vodka
• 1 oz Kahlua
• 1 oz Baileys
• Splash of milk
• Optional: Whipped cream for serving

Method: 

1. Step 1: In your favourite coffee mug, mix the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and chilli powder. 
2. Step 2: Add in the hot coffee, vodka, Kahlua, and Baileys until dissolved. Stir in milk. 
3. Step 3: Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Cut through the winter chills now by heading down to Top Ryde City and stocking up on ingredients to make 1 (or all 4!) of these delicious winter-inspired cocktails. Don’t forget to share your newest cocktails online and tag us, we can’t wait to see what you create.