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.

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:

1. Heat the half and half with the chocolate syrup until it just reaches a boil
2. Add the peppermint vodka
3. Stir over medium heat only until hot
4. Pour into hot mugs
5. Top with whipped cream and crushed candy cane

Related:Best Frozen Cocktails In Los Angeles

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:

1. Pour coffee in a sauce pot
2. Add cinnamon stick, vanilla bean and agave nectar
3. Simmer for 20-30 minutes
4. Add tequila and heat only until hot
5. 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:

1. Bring the water to a boil
2. Add all ingredients except the tea bags
3. Simmer for 20 minutes
4. Add tea bags to steep for 5-8 minutes
5. Strain the entire mixture
6. Serve hot with an orange twist

Related: Orange County's Best Nachos