6 winter drinks to warm you up in the region
With Victoria shivering through some sort of Antarctic cold snap (seriously, even Phillip Island’s penguins must be browsing Queensland real estate right now) it’s the perfect time to snuggle up by a fire and wrap your trembling extremities around something hot. Luckily, Geelong and The Bellarine have plenty of great winter drinks, guaranteed to warm the cockles of your heart.
Faux Social
Ironically named after the US Constitutional amendment that banned alcohol in 1920, The 18th Amendment Bar is a staple on Geelong’s Little Malop Street. They also happen to do a cocktail that’ll knock your winter gumboots off. It’s called the Faux Social: pecan-infused Planteray rum, amaro, caramelised apricot, chai and melted butter, served hot with a dollop of drama. Delicious.
Mulled Wine
There are a few great spots for mulled wine in Geelong – but if we had to pick one, it’s going to be Nicol’s Paddock in Waurn Ponds. Tucked up by the crackling fire, nursing a glass of spiced Pinot Noir, wolfing down Nicol’s famous baked brie – there’s no better way to spend a drizzly Saturday. Bonus points if you order the cinnamon cake with white choc ice-cream.
Hot Spiced Cider
Most people associate Flying Brick with golden summer afternoons on the Bellarine, watching kids doing cartwheels out on the lawn, and nursing an ice-cold cider. But they have a winter program, too. And the centrepiece is their famous hot spiced apple cider: a mix of Flying Brick’s home brew, cinnamon, orange and a hint of cloves. Served piping hot, it tastes like European Christmas in a glass.
Hot Teddy
The Whiskery’s famous ‘Hot Teddy’ is back this winter! This one’s a bit like a traditional Hot Toddy, but instead of whiskey, the crew use local Teddy & The Fox Lemon Myrtle & Orange-flavoured gin. Served piping hot, and garnished with a cinnamon stick. There’s nothing better when the southerly wind’s slicing right through your puffer jacket. We recommend sipping this one inside, especially if you can snag a spot by the fireplace.
Hot Cocktails
Farmdog Brewing in Wallington has been one of the Bellarine’s big success stories over the last few years. And this winter, they’re getting in the spirit (so to speak) with a range of piping hot cocktails. Brewed from their signature gin range, which is distilled on-site, they feature notes of orange rind, cinnamon, star anise, and other spices your grandma used to keep in the cupboard. Park yourself by the fire, tuck into a cheese board, and enjoy.
High Tea
If you’re after something a bit lighter than butter-infused-booze and mulled liquor, head to 360Q in Queenscliff. They’re running Winter High Tea sessions with piping hot Earl Grey, live jazz music, and all the sausage rolls you can smuggle in your bag for later. Tickets are $50 per person, and there’s a bottomless beverage option on the day. Bookings essential for this one. It’s running on Sunday 21 July from 2pm to 4:30pm.
