Rum and wine are the quintessential winter warmers, the perfect comfort from the harsh British outdoors. Alongside these are the seasonal flavours of cranberry and ginger, and spices such as┬ácinnamon┬áand nutmeg. Be tempted by our winter drinks, which champion these flavours…

Agua de Jamaica

Traditionally drunk in Latin America during Christmas and New YearÔÇÖs Eve. Easy to prepare but indisputably delicious. Its sweet and sour flowery flavour, doubled by warm spicy notes give it the reputation of a perfect festive winter warmer. Made by adding dried Hibiscus flowers to an already boiled mixture of water, ginger slices, cinnamon and brown sugar. Optionally topped with lime or diluted with fizzy water.

 

Berry Sweetheart

A sweet treat for those abstaining from alcohol. Simply mix apple and cranberry juices with a dash of honey. Certainly a drink for those with taste that errs on the side of saccharine, though more emphasis on the cranberry and substituting honey for cinnamon (and whichever other spice) may satisfy all others. Be sure to heat up the latter, though, to ensure proper mixing of flavours.

 

Starkvinsgl├Âgg Rom┬á

The UK has become smitten with all things Scandinavian this Christmas, and this Swedish mulled wine is the perfect dip into the shallow end of this craze without having to dish out the pickled herring. A twist on the traditional drink, this version is made with a rum infusion that gives it a noticeable kick. The taste is accented with ginger, cloves and orange. Sultanas and almonds are the perfect addition to this drink, soaking up flavour as it is heated until they are pleasantly plump (and alcoholic).

 

Hot Toddy

From MilgiÔÇÖs winter selection comes this pleasantly tart concoction. Lemon and honey provide a contrasting balance of flavours that is mirrored in the sharp-but-sweet helping of brandy. Ginger, cardamom, star anise and cinnamon are the familiar winter flavours that add depth to the drink and stop the central flavours from being too overpowering. The Milgi guys know how to make this well (and have a cosy yurt for you to enjoy it in), but the flavours are all there if you are feeling inspired.

 

Hot Buttered Rum

For those who prefer their drinks a bit more decadent. This drink is started by creating a batter of butter and sugar, with seasonings of cinnamon, grated nutmeg and allspice. In the jubilant, devil-may-care spirit of end-of-year celebrations, we preferred to mix the ratios to taste rather than careful measure. This batter is allowed to sit for a few hours before being mixed with boiling water and spiced rum (our choice was Bacardi Oakheart). Again, the ratios were very much a case of preference, which meant a very boozy and buttery end result that seemed to improve the longer it was allowed to settle.  Perhaps something of an artery-clogger, but those resolutions of solid healthy eating can be kept for next year.

 

 Smoking Rum    

As recommended by BacardiÔÇÖs specialists: one third Oakheart smoked rum, one third apple juice, another third fiery ginger beer. All served with a splash of lime. ThereÔÇÖs nothing to dislike about this light and invigorating beverage, as easy to drink as it is to make.