Fall Cocktails to Warm You Up Before Ski Season Hits

The air’s getting crisp, the days are getting shorter, and your ski gear is calling from your shed. You can feel it getting close. Soon the lifts will start spinning in the mountains and après ski season will officially begin. Can't wait? Me neither, but there’s one thing you can do to channel those mountain vibes early. Stir up some cozy fall cocktails that warm your hands, heart, and stoke for snow.

Whether you’re dreaming of that first chair or just want to toast the arrival of sweater weather, these whiskey ciders, hot toddy variations, and mulled wines are your ticket to pre-season après bliss.

Whiskey Cider: The Fall Après Starter Pack

If there were a drink that perfectly bridges fall and ski season, whiskey cider would be it. It’s like a campfire in a cup. Smoky, sweet, and just strong enough to take the edge off those chilly nights before the snow flies.

All Ingredients for this Whiskey Cider Recipe available at: Amazon Fresh

How to make it:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey

• 6 oz warm apple cider

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• Dash of cinnamon and nutmeg

• Garnish: apple slice and cinnamon stick

Warm the cider on the stove, stir in the whiskey and maple syrup, and top with spices. It’s simple, satisfying, and pairs well with fire pits, flannel, and planning your next ski trip.

Après Tip:  Add in 1 oz of your favorite Reposado Tequila. The sweet vanilla and caramel flavors are a welcome complement to the whiskey making this the perfect combination to get a little "Twiskey" on a cool fall night. 

Hot Toddy Variations to Keep the Stoke High

The classic Hot Toddy is basically the OG of après ski cocktails.  Equal parts comfort and cure the Hot Toddy might as well be medicine. However, just because it’s old-school doesn’t mean you can’t give it a modern twist.

1. Maple Bourbon Toddy

Swap honey for pure maple syrup, and use a cinnamon stick instead of lemon. It’s like Vermont in a glass — rich, earthy, and perfect after a long fall hike.

2. Spiced Rum Toddy

Not a whiskey person? No problem. Mix spiced rum, hot water, and a splash of orange juice for a cozy, island-meets-Alps vibe.

3. Ginger Toddy with a Kick

Add a few slices of fresh ginger and a spoonful of ginger syrup to your traditional toddy. The spice gives it a satisfying warmth that’ll make you forget you’re still weeks away from your first run.

Après Tip: Toddy mugs are key. Go ceramic or copper because the only thing worse than cold fingers is cold whiskey.

Keep your Hot Toddy Warm with the non spill Hydro Flask Mug

Mulled Wine: The Classic That Never Quits

When it comes to cozy winter cocktails, mulled wine reigns supreme. It’s the drink that’s been warming après ski patios and Euro ski chalets since before après ski was even a thing. 

All Ingredients for Mulled Wine recipe available at: Amazon Fresh

Here’s how to bring it home:

• 1 bottle of red wine (something medium-bodied, like a Merlot or Syrah)

• 1 orange, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 3 whole cloves

• 1–2 tbsp honey or sugar

• Optional: 1 oz brandy for a little extra “lift ticket.”

You know that dial that controls the heat on your stover? Use it. Simmer (don’t boil!) everything together for 15–20 minutes. The result? A steamy, spiced concoction that smells like the holidays and tastes like you’ve already earned your après.

Après Tip: For an easy twist, try a Mulled Rosé. You read that right, it's lighter, fruitier, and surprisingly great for shoulder-season sipping.

Après Season Starts Now

You don’t need fresh powder to enjoy a perfect après moment. You just need a few fall cocktails and some really great people to share them with. Whether you’re sipping whiskey cider by a backyard fire pit, mixing up a hot toddy after leaf-peeping, or slow-simmering a pot of mulled wine, these cozy cocktails are the ideal prelude to ski season.

So grab your mug, light the fire, and raise a glass because winter is coming, and your après game deserves a head start.

Sip in Style: Après Apparel That Matches Your Fall Cocktails

Don’t forget to dress the part. The Après Ski Sweatshirt pairs perfectly with a warm cocktail and a chilly fall evening.

Love cozy cocktails and pre-ski vibes? Subscribe to our blog for the latest fall cocktail recipes, après-inspired drink guides, and insider tips for warming up your mountain adventures before the snow hits. Cheers to cocktails, cozy nights, and early-season stoke!