In the world of hot craft cocktails we often see tea, coffee, cider, etc. However, my favorite this
time of year is cranberry. This months featured craft cocktail is a hot cranberry drink called the Winter Warmer.
I created this cocktail about 10 years ago while bartending in Portland, Oregon and it was an instant success. I received so much positive feedback it became an annual feature for several years. I choose vodka as the base so the other ingredients could shine. The Solerno and cranberry juice are a perfect pairing while the bitters and cinnamon give it a holiday kick. This cocktail is perfect for holiday gatherings or to enjoy solo on a cold winter day.
1 ½ oz. Reyka Vodka
¾ oz. Solerno
3 oz. cranberry Juice
3 dashes of cardamom bitters
1 cinnamon stick
Start by preheating the cranberry juice. Then, pour hot water into the glass and let sit for a minute or two while you gather the ingredients. Discard the water and pour the Reyka, Solerno and bitters into the glass. Finish by topping it with hot cranberry juice and garnish with a cinnamon stick.