Wine & spirits: Chill chasers

Next to a naked cuddle or a roaring fire, the best way to warm up quickly on a chilly evening is with some liquid comfort, such as a mug of hot buttered rum, a tankard of mulled wine or an old-fashioned toddy.

Hot drinks are attractive, easy to make and especially entertaining for guests, who rarely are offered or will ask for a hot cocktail. What's more, they're versatile. Drinks can be as formal and fancy or as casual and simple as you like. The drinks can be made individually to suit personal tastes or created in volume to sate a crowd.

The perfect cold-weather cocktail is one that generates its own cosy ambience while reflecting your personal style. It fills you with warmth and satisfaction. But given the choice of a cuddle, a fire or a hotty, bargain for the best two out of three.

In the mix
With a few basic techniques, you can create professional-quality winter warmers. First, think about the base, which makes up the volume of the drink. Will it be hot milk, coffee, fruit juice, wine or water?

Next, decide on the spirit. Pick one that doesn't clash with the base. For example, if you're making a cider- or juice-based drink, forget about adding cream liqueurs, as they'll curdle. Coffee is the most forgiving drink, which is why so many lounges tend to limit their after-dinner list to a few special coffees. Butterscotch, cream, nut and most fruit and herb liqueurs are also quite compatible with cocoa and hot milk.

Finally, choose a garnish. Cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg work well with most drinks, but whipped cream, chocolate shavings and fruit slices require more care with respect to the base and the booze.

A hot drink should never taste overtly alcoholic. If it does, then you've added too much booze. Hot beverages should also be warmed only enough to lift the aromas and integrate the flavours of the drink. Too much heat and you'll destroy the elegance and gracefulness of the delicate flavours, besides searing your mouth. And avoid heating drinks in the microwave: if you've ever had a cup of microwaved tea or coffee, you know the stovetop is the best place to heat your drink.