The Best Nightcaps To Mix Before Bed (2024)

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Published on June 22, 2017

Lavender Honey Cream

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You’ll start feeling pleasantly sleepy just reading the ingredient list. Lavender Honey Syrup? Yes, please. The drink is unique among nightcaps in that it has a vodka base, but trust us, the final product is a rich, calming sipper.This creamy, smooth drink is the perfect end to any—or every—day. Get the recipe for the Lavender Honey Cream.

Manhattan

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This is a classic that has remained on menus around the world for good reason. It’s easy to make, easy on the eyes and goes down smoothly.Mix up this three-ingredient whiskey standard and kick those shoes off. Get the recipe for the Manhattan.

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Scotch and Soda

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Simple and straightforward, the Scotch and Soda. Sometimes at the end of a long day, all you want to do is bust out a book (or, let’s be honest, re-watch a sitcom on Netflix) and sip something nice.This unfussy standby is a perfect way to enjoy your Scotch and unwind. Get the recipe for the Scotch and Soda.

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Brady’s Milk Punch co*cktail

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A lullaby in a glass, this nightcap starts by bringing together two Emerald Isle mainstays: Brady’s Irish Cream and Clontarf whiskey. It’s just getting started, though. The drink is balanced with Spanish Oloroso sherry, sweetened with vanilla liqueur and smoothed with a bit of half and half.With a sprinkling of grated cinnamon, this recipe walks the perfect line between “good dessert” and “goodnight.” Get the recipe for the Brady’s Milk Punch co*cktail.

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Hot Toddy

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The Hot Toddy is known for its curative properties, but it’s just as good to shepherd in a pleasant night’s sleep.When the days get shorter and the weather turns colder, grab a blanket, put the kettle on and mix this warm, evening classic.The Toddy is also nice because it can be made with a variety of whiskies, depending on your preference. Watch bartender Jacques Bezuidenhout make one with Irish Whiskey.Get the recipe for the Hot Toddy here.

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New York Sour

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For a drink that’s named for the city that never sleeps, the New York Sour is a great way to end the night.Essentially a Whiskey Sour, this pre-Prohibition spin adds a red-wine float that looks great and tastes even better. Warning: It might leave you wanting one more before turning in.Get the recipe for the New York Sour.

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French Connection

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Like the Gene Hackman movie of the same name, this co*cktail is a classic that stands the test of time.Simple and effective, the recipe calls for equal measures of Cognac (use something young, no need to break out the XO) and an amaretto, like the almond-y Disaronno. Build it in an Old Fashioned glass and enjoy.Get the recipe for the French Connection.

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I've been deeply immersed in mixology for quite some time, exploring a wide array of co*cktail recipes and their histories. The article you mentioned from Food & Wine on nightcap recipes is a delightful exploration of various classic and inventive drinks that aid in relaxation and comfort.

Let's break down the concepts and drinks mentioned:

Lavender Honey Cream: This nightcap includes a unique blend of ingredients, featuring a vodka base combined with lavender honey syrup, promising a rich and calming drink.
Manhattan: A timeless classic, typically made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Its simplicity and smooth taste make it a popular choice for many.
Scotch and Soda: This drink, as straightforward as it sounds, is a mix of Scotch whisky and soda. It's a simple yet effective way to unwind after a long day.
Brady’s Milk Punch co*cktail: This nightcap incorporates Brady’s Irish Cream and Clontarf whiskey, along with Spanish Oloroso sherry, vanilla liqueur, and half and half, creating a dessert-like, comforting drink perfect for bedtime.
Hot Toddy: Known for its curative properties and warmth, the Hot Toddy is made with whiskey, hot water, honey, and lemon, providing comfort on chilly evenings.
New York Sour: A twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, the New York Sour includes a red-wine float, adding depth and a visual appeal to the drink.
French Connection: Equal parts Cognac and amaretto, this simple yet effective co*cktail offers a harmonious blend of flavors, perfect for a relaxing evening.

These drinks cater to different tastes and moods, from the creamy and soothing Lavender Honey Cream to the warmth of a Hot Toddy or the elegance of a Manhattan. Each offers a unique experience, contributing to the diverse world of nightcaps.