Ask An OC Expert: Your Best Hot Winter Drink
Looking for some new drinks to liven up a party or family get together this winter? The search is over, thanks to these delicious drink recipes provided by Chef Carli Savedra at the Old Vine Cafe. From a comforting and exciting peppermint hot chocolate to a pleasant spiced tea, these winter concoctions will round out your holiday feasts and impress family and friends this winter.
Old Vine Cafe
2937 Bristol St. A102
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 545-1411
www.oldvinecafe.com
Carli Savedra is the head chef at the Old Vine Cafe in Costa Mesa, an award-winning restaurant focused on providing customers with a one-of-a-kind food and wine experience. The wines at the Old Vine are meticulously chosen and are thoughtfully paired with mouth-watering entrees, creating a perfect dining experience. Superior customer service is what the owners and staff at the Old Vine pride themselves in most as they offer guests a friendly and approachable food and wine education along with a delicious meal.
Hugs On The Inside (Peppermint Hot Chocolate)
- 1 liter peppermint vodka
- 1 cup chocolate syrup
- 2 cups half and half
- Whipped cream for garnish
- Crushed candy cane for garnish
Directions:
- Heat the half and half with the chocolate syrup until it just reaches a boil
- Add the peppermint vodka
- Stir over medium heat only until hot
- Pour into hot mugs
- Top with whipped cream and crushed candy cane
Mexicali Christmas (After Dinner Pick-Me-Up)
- 10 cups fresh-brewed hot coffee
- 1 bottle of reposado tequila
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 whole vanilla bean, slit lengthwise
- 1 cup agave nectar
Directions:
- Pour coffee in a sauce pot
- Add cinnamon stick, vanilla bean and agave nectar
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes
- Add tequila and heat only until hot
- Serve in warm mugs with sugar on the rim
Spiced Holiday Tea
- 3 liters hot water
- 8 premium earl grey tea bags
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- rind from one whole orange
- 1 cup of honey
Directions:
- Bring the water to a boil
- Add all ingredients except the tea bags
- Simmer for 20 minutes
- Add tea bags to steep for 5-8 minutes
- Strain the entire mixture
- Serve hot with an orange twist
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