The Best Nightcaps To Mix Before Bed

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Food & Wine Editors
Food & Wine Editors
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Published on June 22, 2017
French Connection
Photo: Courtesy of Liquor.com

Whether you've had a long day at work or watching the sunset on a lazy Sunday, you deserve a quality nightcap. While most people limit themselves to a basic glass of something brown (neat or, at the most, on the rocks), there's a world of witching-hour recipes that everyone should add into their late-night line-up.From autopilot, two-ingredient balancing acts to homemade floral syrups and an interesting use for red wine, you have to try these seven sleep-inducing nightcaps.This piece originally appeared on Liquor.com.

01 of 07

Lavender Honey Cream

Lavender Honey Cream
Courtesy of Liquor.com

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.

02 of 07

Manhattan

Manhattan
Courtesy of Liquor.com

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.

03 of 07

Scotch and Soda

Scotch and Soda
Courtesy of Liquor.com

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.

04 of 07

Brady’s Milk Punch Cocktail

Brady’s Milk Punch Cocktail
Courtesy of Liquor.com

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 Cocktail.

05 of 07

Hot Toddy

Hot Toddy
Courtesy of Liquor.com

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.

06 of 07

New York Sour

New York Sour
Courtesy of Liquor.com

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.

07 of 07

French Connection

French Connection
Courtesy of Liquor.com

Like the Gene Hackman movie of the same name, this cocktail 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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