Honey and Spice…Deliciously Nice!

Regardless of where you are in the country, old man winter has definitely settled in and seems to be getting cozy.  And my only answer to that is to retreat inside with something to warm you up.  I’m usually a “purist” and have steered clear of the flavored bourbons entirely, however lately, I’ve found myself reaching for the flavored bourbons as my go-to drink of choice.  They add a little bit of pop to drinks that goes great in chasing away those Winter “blahs.”

The two bourbon’s I’m using in this cocktail are delicious on their own, but very good in cocktails, especially this time of year.

The Wild Turkey Spiced offers hints of cinnamon, clove and vanilla bean add a subtle spice to the bourbon, without overpowering Wild Turkey’s renowned robust flavor.  I’ve tried the Spiced a variety of ways, and haven’t found one that I didn’t fall in love with.  Its fabulous on its own, in hot cocoa, in cola, and in a variety of cocktails.

The Jim Beam Honey has very subtle hints of honey–balanced, but still subtle–giving it a sweetness that you would expect from a Jim Beam product.  I prefer it as a mixer, rather than neat or on the rocks.  It works well in tandem with the spices from the Wild Turkey Spiced to warm the drink up just a bit.

This has quickly become one of my favorite Winter cocktails–hopefully it will put a little spice in your soul and some warmth in your cheeks!

Honey & Spice  

• 1 oz Wild Turkey Spiced
• 1 oz Jim Beam Honey
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz orange juice
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Ice

Combine ingredients into a cocktail shaker, filled with ice.  Shake and strain into a chilled glass.  If you prefer a stronger cinnamon taste, you can sprinkle in some ground cinnamon or gently grate the cinnamon stick.  Grating the cinnamon stick will provide a great addition to your drink and will open up the flavor a bit as it soaks in your drink.  Garnish with the cinnamon stick and enjoy!

The great thing about this cocktail is that it can be served warm, as well.  Simply warm up the pineapple and orange juice with a little bit of water (instead of the ice) and mix in with the honey and bourbon.  Pour into your favorite mug (I guarantee it is better than coffee!)  Stir with the cinnamon stick.  I can already feel your troubles slowly melting away!