This beverage calls to mind men in their 50s savoring a Zacapa XO alongside a Cohiba cigar, making it an ideal Christmas substitute on a chilly day for the distinguished older gentlemen in our lives who prefer their cocktails on the stronger side. Indeed, many fathers I know would relish it. A significantly lighter tasting and personally favored option compared to ‘the grog’ for me is the ‘hot toddy’; even the name is so charming, playful, and uplifting. It evokes thoughts of a fluffy teddy bear. Yet don’t underestimate it, this cocktail is a formidable contender. The alcohol base can consist of whiskey or rum blended with lemon juice and honey. My initial encounter with this drink is quite amusing. Once, while sipping at a members, club in London, I found myself with a rather sore throat, and the club’s director, whom I knew well, recommended I try a whiskey-based hot toddy—being Scottish, his choice was indeed whiskey. I immediately fell for the drink and have selected it on numerous occasions unrelated to any sore throat since. Christmas, I believe, is the ideal occasion to serve a hot toddy as a clear and less sugary warming cocktail.
Of course, we cannot forget the immensely popular Gluhwein – also known as mulled wine. There is so much to say about this delightful hot beverage, aside from its deliciousness and status as one of the highlights of the festive menu. It includes all the classic Christmas elements, such as cinnamon, orange & lemon zest, sugar, cloves, anise, nutmeg powder, and the indispensable centerpiece of any Christmas table – red wine. Many choose to utilize an inexpensive bottle as the wine’s flavor itself is not the main focus here; however, a nice Cabernet or Merlot suits French wine enthusiasts perfectly, or a decent bottle of Rosso di Montalcino can also be a suitable choice. Any preferred red bottle is a valid option; however, I would recommend that the wine in consideration be under 50 euros. For those who are not fans of red, a delicious alternative to traditional gluhwein is mulled white wine. It follows the same premise as the classic gluhwein, though some recipes may incorporate orange juice or slight variations, either way it offers guests delightful choices at the Christmas table and is truly delectable and gentler than its red counterpart, despite the presence of brandy. This widely celebrated Christmas beverage is thought to have its roots in ancient Rome and has numerous variations worldwide. Coffee aficionados, on the other hand, will adore the classic Irish coffee: essentially, a straightforward black americano garnished with whipped cream and brown sugar, add a splash of whiskey and you have yourself an Irish. A distant cousin of the Irish coffee is the Calimero, an Italian coffee featuring egg liqueur and cream. Best enjoyed as a short drink, akin to a cortado or espresso. One might assume these drinks are usually consumed earlier in the day, but many merry fellows enjoy their coffees late into the evening and would consider this the ultimate Christmas cocktail.
There’s no need to reiterate, your beverage selection for a Christmas movie night with friends and family is abundant, so choose your favorites.
The coziest and most joyful times are to be cherished in a close-knit setting sharing laughter, joy, and heartfelt wishes. Finding joy in the little things. Now more than ever, it’s essential to grab a pen and paper and compile the grocery list for one or more of the aforementioned holiday drinks – purchase it, prepare it, and enjoy it.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! xxx
