Say Yum: Hot Cocktail (recipes) for Cold Days

Deacon thought his paws might freeze off during yesterday's sub-freezing temps. Luckily, these cold weather cocktails are the perfect antidote to frostbite. (Well, that, and the fact that he's wearing a fur coat!)

Thanks to the Park Hyatt Washington for these delish drinks!

(And yes, if you want to save yourself the effort of trekking to the store, you can get these for $15 each in the lounge...)

Riesling Rosemary Mulled Wine
2 bottles Riesling white wine
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
3 whole cloves
2 tbsp rosemary
1/2 vanilla bean
1/4 cup honey
2 lemons, sliced

Simmer (but not boil) the water, sugar, rosemary, and honey for 10 minutes. Add in the wine. Peel the lemons and add in the peels. Allow to steep without boiling. Strain and serve warm.

Hot Mulled Cider
2 qts apple cider
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tbsp sugar
2 tsp whole cloves
3 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp nutmeg
2 oranges, sliced
2 lemons, sliced
1 cup Captain Morgan's spiced rum (optional)

Mix all ingredients and bring just to a boil. Simmer about 10 minutes. Allow ingredients to macerate for an hour or more. Strain and serve reheated. May be garnished with fresh orange or lemon slice, or a cinnamon stick in each mug.