As the temperatures dip, it’s the perfect time of year to dive into comforting warm beverages. Here are some local options for hot drinks — some with a boozy kick and some without.
Barca Pier & Wine Bar’s Mulled Wine
No beverage represents the holiday season quite like mulled wine. This warm, spiced wine-based beverage brings all the comfort and warmth you need as the days get darker and cooler. At Barca, the mulled wine is made with a blend of cabernet sauvignon and brandy, orange for a bright citrus note, and plenty of clove and star anise to bring the spice. Simmered for hours and garnished with a trio of sweet cranberries, it is heady and fragrant. Enjoy it with a cheese board or a slice of cheesecake. 2 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria
Caffè Amouri’s Hot Chocolate
This artisan roaster might be best known for its small-batch coffees, but it also serves a mean hot chocolate. Actually, it serves two: a Belgian one made with real Belgian chocolate disks that are steamed into milk and a spicy Mexican variety with semi-sweet chocolate disks, powdered cinnamon, and a dash of cayenne pepper. Pick one and wrap yourself in the most comforting liquid blanket — no alcohol needed. The hot chocolates here can also be made with non-dairy milks upon request. 107 Church St. NE, Vienna
Immigrant Food’s Café Calma
This rich and decadent Peruvian latte combines coffee with creamy oat milk and dates for sweetness. The concoction has just the right amount of richness and depth of flavor. If you prefer iced coffee drinks even in winter, don’t worry — this beverage can also be served iced! 4245 Fairfax Dr., Arlington
MacMillan Whisky Room’s Hot Toddy
The hot toddy is the most classic of all steamy cocktails. Originally concocted as a cure for the cold, it is still the drink of choice for bar dwellers looking for a pick-me-up on damp, dreary days. MacMillan’s bartenders mix whiskey with lemon and honey, top that off with hot water, and after a final stir, serve you with a comforting remedy for whatever ails you. 920 District Ave., Ste. 155, Fairfax
Theismann’s Restaurant’s Hot Cider
For a warm beverage made with local ingredients, try the hot apple cider at Theismann’s. Made with Catoctin Creek Roundstone Rye whiskey from the distillery in Purcellville, unfiltered Virginia apple cider, and orange spiced tea, the drink is sweet and fruity. It arrives garnished with a cinnamon stick for some extra spiciness. 1800 Diagonal Rd., Alexandria
Feature image courtesy Barca Pier & Wine Bar
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