Brrrrrrrrrr! It is sooo cold outside! Okay, I will admit it. I am such a big wimp when it comes to the freezing cold. I know we’ve been fortunate with the weather this year, and it’s definitely not as bad as last year. But today and yesterday, it’s been freezing. As my husband puts it, it’s colder than a polar bear’s toenails!!! The one good thing I love to do when it’s cold like this is pour my favorite drink and snuggle up on the couch by the fire. Let me help you get through these cold winter months with a few ideas.

Graham’s Six Grapes Reserve Port

Sweet and full bodied with rich black fruit, it pairs deliciously with chocolate dessert and strong cheeses, especially blue cheese. This is also a perfect choice for an outside bonfire.

Salted Butterscotch Hot Chocolate

Ingredients
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 ounces Scotch, divided
• Kosher salt
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ¼cup cocoa powder
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 ounces milk chocolate chips
• 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips
• Whipped cream

Directions
Heat sugar in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, swirling gently as it melts until a golden caramel color is reached. Pour in 2 ounces Scotch and heavy cream. Whisk until homogenous. Season with a pinch of kosher salt. Pour caramel into a bowl and set aside.
In medium saucepan, stir cocoa with another pinch of salt. Stir in milk, milk chocolate, and bittersweet chocolate. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until chocolate is melted and mixture is hot. Gently whisk to completely homogenize the mixture. Whisk in caramel, saving a couple of teaspoons for garnish. Add remaining 4 ounces Scotch.
Pour hot cocoa into mugs, top with whipped cream, and swirl with reserved caramel sauce. Serve immediately.

Gran Passione Rosso 2014- Veneto, Italy

This is definitely one of my favorites to snuggle up with, and it’s only $14.99 a bottle. It’s a beautiful medium-bodied blend of Merlot and Corvina with ripe red and black fruits.

Toastie Shot
1 ½ ounces Amaretto
½ ounce Cinnamon Schnapps
Mix together in a shot glass.

Stay warm, my friends!
Cheers,
Simone