Merry Mixology

The holidays have been known for the cheer they inspire, and perhaps even a fair amount of humbuggery. Either way, one thing we all can enjoy is a nice nip of a Yuletide cheer here and there. Everyone has their own favorites and possibly their own recipes. Here are some simple and easy standards, and maybe even a couple new ideas to pour down the hatch this winter. And, of course, the Vanguard would like to remind you to drink responsibly this season.

Hot Toddy
It’s nothing new, but it sure is tasty and works wonders for a sore throat when you have the sniffles. Plus, it’s a warm, simple pleasure on a cold evening. In a coffee mug, take a slice of lemon and squeeze it dry. Throw the slice in while you’re at it. Cover the lemon in honey, and then cover that in brandy. Finally, fill the rest of the mug with hot water.

Eggnog
If you need instructions on this, then you shouldn’t be drinking. Take your eggnog and put booze in it. Rum, Goldschläger, brandy, whatever.

Holiday cider
Who doesn’t like a good cup of cider? On your stove, fill a large pot with a gallon of apple cider, sprinkle on cinnamon and nutmeg, then splash in a bunch of rum to taste. Helpful hint: Instead of messing up your stovetop, use a Crock-Pot.

Irish Black Russian
Also known by a plethora of other similar titles. This one is good to drink year round, but just goes especially well on a snowy night. You basically make a Black Russian (shot of vodka and a shot of Kahlua) in the bottom of a highball glass. Give it a couple squirts of cola and top it all off with Guinness. You can replace the vodka with whiskey if your tastes prefer. This one is a good choice for coffee lovers.

Glühwein
The Germans never fail when it comes to fine drinks. Glühwein is a form of mulled wine that is basically spiced red wine served hot. You can pick up bottles of it at German markets. But just consider the bottles as a base. The trick is to add a little rum—or spiced rum—while heating it on the stove. This not only adds a little kick, it also makes up for the alcohol naturally burned off. Mmm, such a nice, sweet holiday treat. Serve in a mug.

Irish-style hot chocolate
Here’s another simple-yet-cozy drink. Hot chocolate is always a delight in contrast to frosted windows. Make a normal hot chocolate, and hey, don’t use the cheap stuff. You know what I’m talking about. Use a nice hot chocolate mix and throw in a shot of Bailey’s Irish Cream.

Scotch sour
For those of us with a bit more refined taste, a Scotch sour comes as a welcomed warm up. Don’t use a lower-shelf Scotch, and personally I don’t like Johnny Walker, but if that is your preference, then please go right on ahead. You can use an old-fashioned glass for this. Throw in a shot of scotch and a shot of cherry brandy. Then add a dash of sweet vermouth and a squirt of lemon juice. As with most drinks, you can play around with the brandy, vermouth and lemon to fit your liking. I personally enjoy going heavy on the lemon juice. If you want to look extra fancy, garnish with a lemon wedge.