Winter is here and, as a nation of sun lovers, South Africans are not very well equipped for the colder months. The days are short, the nights are piercing, and flu season is relentless. Cocktails might not sing of winter to you the way woolly hats or hot water bottles do, but there is actually no better time for indulging in boozy hot chocolate, warm wine, or tequila- infused apple cider than when staving off certain hypothermia.

With that in mind, we have dived into the bar and brought you cocktails centred on the big guns of the liquor cabinet — brandy, whisky and tequila. All of these cocktails are served hot, to warm your insides and lift your spirit.

The hot toddy

This whisky-based cocktail hasa dual purpose. It’s the classic drink when curled up at a fire place on a cold night, but itis also a traditional remedy forwarding off colds. You can use any kind of whisky you like —the end result will be equally delicious. Grab your favourite mug, and curl up with a cup of contentment.

Ingredients

Boiling water, to fill the mug

4 cloves

1 long piece of lemon peel

2 tsp brown sugar

2 tsp lemon juice

50ml whisky

Method

Warm the mug with boiling water. While it’s warming, stud the cloves into the lemon peel. Empty the mug, and fill it halfway with boiling water. Add the sugar and stir to dissolve.Add the lemon peel, lemon juice, and whisky, then stir to combine — and enjoy.

The heated affair

Tequila isn’t just for margaritas or late-night shots at the bar. Try this complex-flavoured, cold-weather drink that mixes tequila with hot apple juice and is topped with double cream and nutmeg. It’s like sitting in a pool of warm winter sunshine.

Ingredients

200ml apple juice

Pinch each of ground cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg

50ml gold tequila

25ml double-thick cream

Method

Heat a mug with boiling water. While it’s heating, warm the apple juice, spices, and tequila in a pot on the stove. Empty the mug, refilling it with the apple juice and tequila mixture.Carefully spoon some double thick cream on top. Enjoy!

Boozy chococcino

Brandy and chocolate are a classic pairing, and they really shine in this luxurious winter warmer. A super adult dessert.

Ingredients

50ml brandy

25ml citrus liqueur

3tsp good-quality hot chocolate powder, or grated dark chocolate

75ml prepared filter coffee

75ml milk

Marshmallows, to serve

Method

Mix all the ingredients together in a pot on the stove and bring to a simmer. Pour into a mug and top with marshmallows.