Pomegranate Cider

Pomegranate Cider:This time of year, a good hot drink after a long day is in order. Delicious and warming, this concoction can be either family friendly or adults only.

Ingredients: 2 cups fresh apple cider, 1 cup red wine, 1/2 cup pomogranite juice, 10 whole cloves, 2 cinnamon sticks.

For cinnamon/sugar mixture: 4 tsp. superfine sugar, 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon. 1 lime cut into wedges.

Preparation: In a saucepan, combine all liquid ingredients, bring to a simmer under low heat, stirring ocassionally.

To make cinnamon sugar mixture, combine on a small saucer. Use the lime wedge to moisten the rim of the glass, then roll the damp rim in the sugar mixture. Set aside until the cider is ready.

Once the cider is ready, strain into a heated mug or Irish Coffee mug. Add cinnamon stick for garnish if you like.

Hazelnut Antifreeze

I created this libation a number of years ago as a way to ward off the coldest days of winter. It's warm, flavorful and knocks the chill right out.

Ingredients: 6oz. hot brewed gourmet coffee, 2oz. dark rum, 1oz. Frangelico (Hazelnut liqueur), 1 tsp. brown sugar, whipped cream.

Preparation: Brew coffee, in a heated mug, add the rum, Frangelico and brown sugar. Pour in coffee. Stir to blend,top with whipped cream.

The Tennessee Hottie

This is a quick and easy libation, meant to help warm up your innards and your soul. Best enjoyed next to a roaring fire.

Ingredients: 6oz. boiling water, 2oz. Jack Daniels, 1 tsp. honey, 1/2 tsp. fresh lemon juice, cinnamon stick for garnish.

Preparation: Boil the water. In a heated mug, add the Jack, honey and lemon juice. Gently pour in the boiling water, and stir to mix. Add cinnamon stick, sip and savor.

Mulled Grape Cider

Mulled Grape Cider--not only is this one loaded with vitamin C, it's a delicious way to warm-up to the New Year, and it's family-friendly!