Off-slope entertainment in ski resorts around the world has become almost as important as the skiing itself, which is why you'll find some of the best nightlife spots in the world at the base of snowy mountains. After a day out in the cold, there's just something comforting about a warming winter cocktail. 10Best tells you our favorites and where to get them.
Tom & Jerry
Tom & Jerry — Photo courtesy of Dinner Series
Eggnog had become the ubiquitous Christmas drink, so it only makes sense that the creamy concoction would pop up in the apres-ski scene. This particular cocktail was the brainchild of a British journalist in the early 1800s and typically includes eggnog, brandy and rum served hot. The Vail Cascade in Vail, Colorado gives it a twist, calling it an Old Saint Nick, with the addition of Myers Dark Rum and Creme de Cacao.
Cranberry Martini
Cranberry Martini — Photo courtesy of TheCulinaryGeek
For something a little lighter and more refreshing to get you ready for a night of apres-ski revelry, try a cranberry martini, or Cranberry Mistletini as the folks at Stowe Mountain's Topnotch Resort & Spa call it. Organic Green Mountain vodka, cranberry and orange are garnished with a curled citrus peel for the perfect winter refresher.
Hot Toddy
Hot Toddy — Photo courtesy of James Whatley
Gone are the days when a hot toddy was what Grandma poured you to cure the winter cold. Someone along the line realized they're pretty tasty and deserve a permanent place on the winter cocktail menu. For one of the best, pull up a chair at the Waldorf Astoria's Slopes Restaurant in the Canyons, Utah. The combination of locally distilled rye whiskey, chamomile tea, lemon, honey, cloves and cinnamon will have you warmed up in no time.
Haute Chocolate
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Hot chocolate might very well be humanity's favorite winter warmer, and the Fifty Two 80 Bar in Whistler's Four Seasons Resort serves it with espresso, Godiva Chocolate Liqueur and peppermint schnapps. It's all topped off with mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings.
Fire & Ice
Fire & Ice — Photo courtesy of Quinn Dombrowski
There isn't just one recipe for a Fire & Ice cocktail; pretty much any combination of cold and spicy will do. If you happen to be skiing Mammoth, try the Whitebark restaurant's fiery variation that infuses vodka with cucumber, lime, Serrano chilies and sweet agave nectar.