Winter Tonic

Winter Tonic: A Cosy, Crisp Classic with a Seasonal Twist

Looking for a cocktail that captures the essence of winter without weighing you down? Enter the Winter Tonic — a simple, refreshing and wonderfully festive drink that’s perfect for chilly days and cosy nights. With fresh apple juice, Double Dutch Cranberry & Ginger Tonic, and warming garnishes of cinnamon and star anise, this serve is as comforting as it is crisp. It’s light, fruity, and gently spiced — a beautifully balanced alternative to heavier holiday cocktails.

The Winter Tonic is made for easy elegance. Fresh apple juice offers natural sweetness and a gentle fruitiness, while the Double Dutch Cranberry & Ginger Tonic brings zingy tartness, warming spice and a delicate fizz that lifts the drink. It’s a brilliant option for non-drinkers, low-ABV lovers, or anyone looking to enjoy seasonal flavour without going overboard. Served in a wine glass over ice and topped with festive garnishes, it looks every bit as celebratory as it tastes.

Why We Love It

The Winter Tonic proves that minimal ingredients can deliver maximum flavour. It’s clean and refreshing, but still packed with seasonal charm. The apple juice brings a mellow sweetness, while the cranberry and ginger tones of the mixer add complexity and contrast. Then come the garnishes — a crisp apple slice, a fragrant cinnamon stick, and a pop of star anise — which not only look beautiful but infuse the drink with comforting winter aromas as you sip.

Perfect For…

This is a cocktail for relaxed winter afternoons, festive brunches, or as a lighter option during a night of celebrations. It’s great for anyone avoiding alcohol, but it also makes an excellent base for customisation — add a splash of Calvados or spiced rum if you’re after something stronger. However you serve it, the Winter Tonic always brings a touch of warmth and sparkle to the moment.

Double Dutch Mixer Match

Cranberry & Ginger is the perfect match here. It adds bold, fruity sharpness and a warming, spicy finish that lifts the sweetness of the apple juice and adds depth to every sip. The fizz adds a celebratory feel, making this drink ideal for toasting the season with style.

Serving Tips

• Serve in a wine glass: It’s the perfect shape for showing off the garnishes and capturing the aromas.
• Use clear, chilled apple juice: Keeps the drink fresh, crisp and vibrant in colour.
• Garnish generously: A slice of red apple, a stick of cinnamon and a star anise turn this into a visual and aromatic winter treat.

So whether you’re hosting, gifting, or just treating yourself, the Winter Tonic is the perfect companion to the season — fresh, fragrant, and full of festive flair.