Dark Spirits for Darker Days: Fabulous Festive Flavours

These cold and dark days have got us thinking about dark spirits! There’s no better way to warm the soul than with a rich glass of whiskey. Bourbon, rye, and scotch each have their own distinct characteristics and offer endless possibilities for winter enjoyment. But which one should you choose and why?

Bourbon

Bourbon is sweet with a full-bodied profile often featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Its sweeter, richer notes pair well with flavours like vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple. Mix bourbon with ingredients like apple cider, ginger beer, or coffee for comforting holiday drinks. Warm yourselves up this winter by making a:

• Hot Toddy: Perfect for a cold winter night, this soothing drink combines bourbon with hot water, honey, lemon juice, and a cinnamon stick for garnish. It’s a warming hug in a mug.
• Maple Old Fashioned: Swap sugar with maple syrup for a seasonal twist on the classic Old Fashioned. Add a dash of orange bitters and a strip of orange peel to complement the sweetness.

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Rye

Rye has a spicier kick compared to bourbon. The bold, spicy character of rye cuts through sweetness and pairs beautifully with herbal and spiced ingredients such as rosemary, clove, or black tea. It’s also excellent with citrus juices like lemon or grapefruit, which balance its intensity. Some festive cocktails that it works great in include a:

• Spiced Manhattan: Mix rye whiskey with sweet vermouth and a dash of holiday-inspired bitters, such as cinnamon or clove, for a festive variation.
• Rye Eggnog: Transform traditional eggnog with a shot of rye whiskey, which balances the creamy sweetness with a touch of spice.

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Scotch

The smoky, peaty notes of Scotch add depth and intrigue, making it a perfect match for ingredients like honey, dark chocolate, and orange. Lighter Scotches pair well with pear or green apple, while smoky varieties shine alongside ginger or smoked bitters. Try it in a:

• Rusty Nail: A classic Scotch cocktail made with Scotch whisky and Drambuie, a liqueur featuring honey, herbs, and spices. This simple yet elegant drink is a winter favourite.
• Blood and Sand: This vintage cocktail pairs Scotch with orange juice, sweet vermouth, and cherry brandy for a beautifully balanced winter treat.

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