Here at the Grape Vine Liquor Store we love the traditional winter beverages like the Hot Toddy or Mulled Cider. But sometimes we like to try something a little different or put a spin on an old favorite: hot chocolate. Here is a fun recipe we found on seriouseats.com that is the perfect end to a great meal or a nice reward after shoveling the driveway.

Guinness, Whiskey, and Baileys Hot Chocolate

Ingredients

1 (12-ounce) bottle Guinness
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
pinch kosher salt
3 cups whole milk
4 ounces milk chocolate chips
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate chips
4 ounces Bailey’s
4 ounces Irish whiskey

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, cook Guinness over medium-high heat until reduced to 1/2 cup, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
2. In medium saucepan, stir cocoa with sugar and salt. Stir in milk, milk chocolate, and bittersweet chocolate. Heat over medium heat until, stirring constantly, until chocolate is melted and mixture is hot. Gently whisk to completely homogenize mixture.
3. Add Bailey’s followed by reduced Guinness and whiskey. Using a hand blender, milk frother, or whisk, whisk until frothy, pour into individual serving cups, and serve immediately.

Please visit seriouseats.com for the original post and recipe.

Dark n’ Stormy’s are a New England standard around the beach and on the islands. But you don’t need to on a boat to enjoy this summer favorite and you only need two ingredients sold by The Grape Vine – Boxborough!

Dark n’ Stormy

Ingredients:

• 2.5 ounces Goslings Rum
• Ginger Beer
• Ice

Steps:

1. Fill glass up with ice
2. Add Goslings Rum
3. Fill glass with ginger beer
4. Enjoy!

Image from tastespotting.com