Comforting and rich, winter cocktails evoke feelings of warmth and coziness. As the chill of the season settles in, flavors infused with warm spices and darker spirits shine, inviting us to savor the moment. Food & Wine readers have gravitated towards delightful twists on classic drinks this year, showcasing favorites that warm the heart and lift the spirits.
Here’s a roundup of the top 10 winter cocktails beloved by readers in 2025——perfect for those festive gatherings or cozy nights in.
1. Fig Old Fashioned
A twist on the classic Old Fashioned, this cocktail incorporates fig syrup to enhance the whiskey’s natural caramel notes while adding subtle fruit complexity.
2. Holiday French 75
This festive variation of the French 75 combines gin and citrus with sparkling wine for a celebratory drink that is both light and elegant.
3. Earl Grey MarTEAni
Infused with Earl Grey tea, this martini melds citrus brightness with the aromatic qualities of the tea, creating a sophisticated drink with a smooth, silky finish.
4. Bywater
A nod to New Orleans, this cocktail blends aged rum with herbal and spicy elements. Its rich complexity is complemented by Velvet Falernum’s essence of clove and lime.
5. Whiskey Sour
Balancing whiskey with fresh lemon and a hint of sweetness, this classic drink can include an egg white for an elevated texture, making it a winter favorite.
6. Cosmopolitan
This iconic cocktail combines citrus vodka, cranberry juice, and lime, resulting in a vibrant drink that’s perfect for winter festivities.
7. Espresso Martini
Rich and robust, this cocktail combines vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur, delivering a delightful after-dinner treat that’s both sweet and bitter.
8. Rusty Nail
A minimalist yet warming drink, the Rusty Nail pairs blended Scotch with Drambuie, producing a smooth and simple cocktail that remains a classic.
9. The Business
A variation on the Bee’s Knees, this drink features honey syrup that complements the gin’s botanicals, delivering a refreshing balance perfect for gatherings.
10. Apple Cider Aperol Spritz
This playful twist on the Aperol Spritz uses spiced apple cider and sparkling wine, offering a refreshing and seasonal drink that’s easy to make in larger batches for parties.
These cocktails offer a blend of sophistication and nostalgia, making them perfect for enjoying the magic of the winter season.