As Melbourne settles into the deep freeze of mid-June, we’ve reached that glorious time of year where the sun decides to clock off early and leave us to our own devices. Naturally, the longest, darkest night of the year calls for a little liquid reinforcement.
Whether you’re huddled near a fire pit or just trying to survive a drafty apartment, you need a drink that hits back against the cold. We’ve rounded up the heavy hitters that are currently owning the season, from high-octane RTDs to spiced-up staples.
The Indulgence: Real McCoy Cinnamon Doughnut Whiskey
For those moments when you’re craving a dessert but can’t be bothered to bake, the Real McCoy Cinnamon Doughnut Whiskey is a total game-changer.
Built on a very smooth blend of American Whiskey and Bourbon, it carries those nostalgic, warm aromas of vanilla and hot cinnamon-dusted donuts we all know and love. While it’s dangerously delicious on its own, it really shines in an Espresso Cinnamon-tini. Just swap your standard vodka for this spiced nectar, add your espresso and coffee liqueur, and you’ve got a caffeinated, spiced masterpiece that’ll wake you up and keep you cosy all at once.
The Refreshment: UDL Double Crush
Just because the temperature is plummeting doesn’t mean you have to surrender your tastebuds to heavy stouts or mulled wine.
UDL has recently revitalised its lineup with the super strong Double Crush range, a suite of vodka-based RTDs designed for when you want maximum flavour without the “lightweight” ABV. The Pine, Passion & Vodka version was our standout of the new range. It’s a sweet and tropical blend of tangy pineapple and juicy passionfruit that feels like a sun-drenched holiday (which everyone in Melbourne is dreaming about right now) in a can. The classics are also represented with an orange & mango mix, as well as an unusual guava, lime and vodka version. The new hard-hitting UDLs are surprisingly sessionable and very sharable, providing that sweet hit that makes you want to keep reaching for another can.
The Nightcap: Never Never Panettone Negroni
If you’re looking to get a bit sophisticated while the frost settles on the windows, look no further than the Never Never Panettone Negroni. Crafted with their signature Triple Juniper Gin, it’s infused with aged muscat, orange liqueur, rye distillate, and vanilla bean, making it taste exactly like Nonna’s kitchen on Christmas Day. It’s rich, ruby red, and packed with spice, the kind of drink that’s practically made for slow-sipping by a fire. Pro tip: keep it in the freezer and pour it over a single, massive block of ice for the ultimate solstice treat.
On top of all that, this delicious drop was just names the World’s Best Contemporary Cocktail at the 2026 World Drink Awards in London – which is a very official way of saying Australia has somehow managed to out-Negroni Italy!
So, there you have it, the only survival kit you’ll need to navigate the shortest, coldest, and darkest days of the year this weekend. Whether you’re sipping a tropical UDL to dream of warmer days, or settling into the rich, spiced embrace of a festive Negroni to truly embrace winter, or turning your kitchen into a late-night dessert lounge with that cinnamon-spiked espresso fix, these bottles have got your back.
Winter in Melbourne might be a test of endurance, but with a well-stocked bar, it’s mostly just an excuse to get creative and stay toasty. Take these tips, stock up before the next cold front hits, and remember: the days only get longer from here.
– The Plus Ones Team
Please drink responsibly. We’re really excited for Winter in Melbourne, so keep an eye on our pages for lots of upcoming events or try these drinks out in the comfort of your own home this winter.
