Tailgate Drinks

By Food & Wine
Updated May 18, 2017
Credit: Tina Rupp
Game-day appropriate cocktails, from mojito Jell-O shots to beer-based ginger shandies.
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Apple-Brandy Hot Toddies

Credit: © Rob Howard
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No drink is easier than a hot toddy, which is basically a shot or two of any potent spirit added to a cup of hot water. These warming cocktails get a slug of apple brandy, such as Calvados.

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Bloody Mary

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Early games require rich and spicy Bloody Marys. This zesty mix can—and should—be made ahead of time to allow the spices and horseradish to marry with the tomato juice.

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Gaelic Punch

Credit: Tina Rupp
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This lemony, spiced take on a hot toddy is perfect for warming up before winter games. For hot punches like this, young Irish whiskeys work best. Heat intensifies the tannic edge of older whiskeys; young ones stay smooth.

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Mulled Red Wine

Credit: Terry Monk
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This warm mulled wine, spiced with fennel seeds and cinnamon, is best made with a rich, fruity red wine such as Zinfandel or Merlot. It can be prepared up to three days ahead of time and reheated before serving.

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Mojito Jell-O Shots

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Instead of combining vodka with flavored Jell-O mix, this sophisticated version of the lowbrow shot is made by mixing a refreshing mojito with unflavored gelatin. The mint-and-lime spiced shots can be made up to three days ahead of time.

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Ginger Shandies

Credit: Tina Rupp
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This low-alcohol, beer-based cocktail is incredibly easy to make, and it’s great for a thirsty crowd. Made with citrusy Hoegaarden, spicy ginger beer, lemon and mint, this pitcher drink is perfect for a warm fall game.

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